Classi Cardinal Signs Of Child Abuse

Child Advocacy

Child maltreatment has many different characteristics, including child neglect and physical abuse (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson, 2011). It is defined as “any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation, or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm,” (Children 's Bureau, 2008). Children suffering from child abuse or neglect usually share a series of indicative behaviors and findings (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson, 2011). As a healthcare provider, it is crucial to recognize the cardinal signs of child abuse at the earliest stage possible (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson, 2011).
The child may exhibit burns on their palms or soles of their feet, often times resembling cigarette burns or burns from searing hot water (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson, 2011). Fractures are commonly found in multiple bones of the body, often in different phases of healing (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson, 2011). Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal swelling may appear from the child being punched in the in the stomach area by their abuser (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson, 2011). Poisoning and drug overdose occurring with no explanation may also be seen if the caregiver has purposefully poisoned the child (Wong, Hockenberry & Wilson,