A nurse working at a middle school suspects that a student is experiencing physical abuse after performing an assessment on them. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?
Make a report to Child Protective Services (CPS)
Call the police and report the suspected abuse.
Call the child's guardian to have the child's pediatrician confirm the suspected abuse.
Alert the school principal of the situation.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Make a Report to Child Protective Services (CPS)
This is the correct action for the nurse to take. Nurses are mandated reporters, meaning they are legally required to report any suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. Child Protective Services (CPS) is the agency responsible for investigating reports of child abuse and ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Reporting to CPS ensures that the case is handled by professionals trained to investigate and intervene in such situations.
Choice B: Call the Police and Report the Suspected Abuse
While calling the police may seem like a logical step, it is not the primary action a nurse should take in this situation. The police may become involved later in the process, especially if there is an immediate threat to the child's safety. However, the initial report should be made to CPS, as they are the designated agency for handling child abuse cases.
Choice C: Call the Child's Guardian to Have the Child's Pediatrician Confirm the Suspected Abuse
This action is not appropriate because it could potentially place the child in further danger. If the guardian is the abuser, notifying them could lead to retaliation against the child or attempts to cover up the abuse. Additionally, it is not the role of the pediatrician to confirm abuse; this is the responsibility of CPS and law enforcement.
Choice D: Alert the School Principal of the Situation
While it is important to keep school officials informed, the nurse's primary responsibility is to report the suspected abuse to CPS. The school principal can be informed after the report has been made, but the immediate priority is to ensure the child's safety by contacting the appropriate authorities.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The closure of the elementary school and the shift to remote learning is a significant change for the child and family. However, it does not directly impact the child's diabetes management. The nurse should be aware of this change as it may affect the child's routine and stress levels, but it is not the primary concern in managing diabetes.
Choice B Reason:
The lenient notice from the power company regarding back payment of debt is a relief for the family, but it does not directly affect the child's diabetes care. While financial stability is important, the immediate concern for the nurse is ensuring the child has access to necessary medical care and supplies.
Choice C Reason:
The family may not be able to see preferred providers due to increased health insurance costs. This is a critical issue because access to preferred healthcare providers is essential for managing the child's diabetes effectively. Consistent care from knowledgeable providers ensures proper monitoring, education, and adjustments to the child's treatment plan. Without access to these providers, the child's health could be compromised.
Choice D Reason:
Enrollment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to receive extra food benefits is beneficial for the family's overall nutrition. However, it does not directly address the specific needs related to managing diabetes. While good nutrition is important, the primary concern is ensuring access to specialized medical care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A client who has health insurance but requires a supplemental policy is not typically eligible for Medicaid based solely on this need. Medicaid is designed to provide health coverage for individuals with low income and limited resources. While supplemental policies can help cover additional costs, they do not qualify someone for Medicaid.
Choice B Reason:
A client whose income is below the poverty line is eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid is a means-tested program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. Eligibility is primarily based on income and, in some cases, other factors such as disability or family status. This choice aligns with the primary eligibility criteria for Medicaid.
Choice C Reason:
A client who has health insurance from their job but is recently unemployed may qualify for Medicaid if their income falls below the eligibility threshold. However, the key factor is the income level, not the employment status alone. If the client's income remains above the poverty line despite unemployment, they may not qualify for Medicaid.
Choice D Reason:
A client who is a young adult between the ages of 18 to 25 does not automatically qualify for Medicaid based on age alone. Eligibility for Medicaid is primarily determined by income and other specific criteria. While some young adults may qualify under certain circumstances, age alone is not a determining factor.
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