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 expansion of the program within the Hispanic community is indeed an important initiative for many community health programs, including the Nurse-Family Partnership. However, it is not the standout aspect of the impact report in question. The focus on public-private partnerships is more prominently highlighted in the report, reflecting a broader strategy to enhance program reach and effectiveness through diverse collaborations.
Choice B Reason:
The statement that the impact report is kept private is incorrect. Impact reports are typically public documents designed to showcase the achievements and progress of a program to stakeholders, funders, and the community. Keeping such a report private would defeat its purpose of transparency and accountability.
Choice C Reason:
Expansion of public-private partnerships is a key initiative. This is a standout aspect of the Nurse-Family Partnership impact report. Public-private partnerships are crucial for scaling up health programs, securing funding, and integrating services across different sectors. These partnerships enable the program to leverage resources, expertise, and networks from both public and private entities, thereby enhancing its impact and sustainability.
Choice D Reason:
The statement that the impact report focuses solely on local partnerships is not accurate. While local partnerships are important, the report emphasizes a broader strategy that includes both local and wider public-private partnerships. This comprehensive approach ensures that the program can address community needs more effectively and sustainably.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Teaching residents about the dangers of lead-based paint is an important public health intervention, especially in older neighborhoods where lead paint may still be present. However, this intervention does not directly address the mobility and transportation issues faced by elderly residents with health problems. It is more relevant to preventing lead poisoning and ensuring safe living environments.
Choice B Reason:
Partnering with local churches and writing grants for childcare funding towards affordable daycares is a valuable community initiative. It supports working families by providing affordable childcare options. However, this intervention does not directly benefit elderly residents with health issues who have trouble getting around. It is more focused on supporting young families rather than addressing the specific needs of the elderly.
Choice C Reason:
Advocating for more transportation to healthcare facilities directly addresses the mobility challenges faced by elderly residents with health issues. Improved transportation options can significantly enhance their access to medical care, ensuring they receive timely treatments and check-ups. This intervention is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being, making it the most relevant and impactful choice for this scenario.
Choice D Reason:
Partnering with a nonprofit organization for the local farmers' market to sell fresh produce twice a week is an excellent initiative to improve access to healthy foods. While this can benefit the elderly by providing easier access to nutritious food, it does not directly address their transportation and mobility issues. It is a supportive measure but not the primary solution for their immediate needs.
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