The school nurse is seeing a 7-year-old child in the clinic and is concerned with behaviors and physical indications that indicate the child is being sexually abused. Which is the priority action by the nurse?
The nurse must discuss the findings with the parents and give them the opportunity to explain.
Talk to the child and find out if they are experiencing sexual abuse or inappropriate touching.
The nurse should talk with another co-worker to be sure the nurse is correct about the assessment.
Accurately and thoroughly document the findings and report to the appropriate authorities.
The Correct Answer is D
When a school nurse suspects that a child is being sexually abused, the priority action is to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Option D, accurately and thoroughly documenting the findings and reporting to the appropriate authorities, is the most critical step in protecting the child.
Child abuse, including sexual abuse, is a serious concern that requires immediate attention and intervention. In many jurisdictions, healthcare professionals, including school nurses, are mandated reporters, which means they are legally obligated to report suspected cases of child abuse to child protective services or other appropriate authorities.
Options A, B, and C are not appropriate as the child's safety is the top priority:
A. Discussing the findings with the parents and giving them the opportunity to explain could potentially place the child at further risk if the parents are involved in the abuse or are unwilling to address the situation.
B. Talking to the child and finding out if they are experiencing sexual abuse or inappropriate touching should not be the first step without involving child protective services or other appropriate authorities. The child may be frightened or reluctant to disclose abuse directly to the nurse, especially if the abuser is a family member or someone known to the child.
C. Talking with another co-worker to confirm the assessment may delay the necessary action and reporting to protect the child.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Aggression is a behavior characterized by hostility, anger, or violent actions toward others or objects. In the scenario described in option B, the client demonstrates aggressive behavior by stomping away from the nurses' station and grabbing a pool cue from another client. This behavior indicates hostility and potential violence towards others, which is a clear example of aggression.
Options A, C, and D do not describe aggressive behavior. Option A describes a client expressing sadness and seeking comfort by hugging a pillow and sobbing. Option C describes a client expressing anger verbally but not exhibiting aggression. Option D describes a client refusing to take medication, which may not necessarily involve aggressive behavior.
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
The actions that are important for the nurse to take to help the client feel safe, secure, and in control of their own body are:
A. Prior to performing any intervention that requires touch, the nurse will ask permission.
This approach allows the client to feel respected and in control of their personal space. Asking for permission before any touch-related intervention acknowledges the client's autonomy and helps build trust.
D. The nurse will perform a continuous assessment of the client's anxiety level.
Continuous assessment of the client's anxiety level is important to identify any triggers or situations that may cause distress or feelings of unsafety. By monitoring the client's anxiety, the nurse can adjust care accordingly to promote a sense of security.
E. Have security present outside of the client's room to prevent anyone from coming in.
Having security present outside the client's room can provide an added layer of safety and reassurance for the client, especially if they have a history of abuse and may feel vulnerable or threatened.
It is not appropriate to:
B- Have the client perform all care independently and without assistance. The client may need assistance with certain care activities, and providing appropriate assistance can promote feelings of safety and trust.
C- Have two nurses present at all times to perform all care and procedures. While some situations may require additional staff for safety reasons, having two nurses present at all times for all care activities can be intrusive and may not respect the client's privacy and autonomy. It is essential to balance safety measures with promoting the client's sense of control and dignity.
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