A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a school-age child who was admitted for suspected physical maltreatment. Which of the following findings in the child's medical history should the nurse identify as a potential risk factor for physical maltreatment?

Choice A rationale:
The nurse should report the finding of a 6-month-old infant with a spiral fracture to a lower extremity to local authorities. Spiral fractures in infants, especially those who are not yet independently mobile, raise concerns about possible child abuse or non-accidental trauma. The unique pattern of spiral fractures is often associated with twisting forces, which are unlikely to occur accidentally in infants who cannot perform such movements. Reporting such cases is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
Choice B rationale:
A 9-month-old infant exposed to bedbugs and cellulitis is not an emergency that requires reporting to local authorities. While cellulitis can be serious, it is not an immediate threat to the child's safety, and the focus should be on providing appropriate medical care.
Choice C rationale:
A 4-year-old preschooler with rivalry among siblings does not indicate a need for reporting to local authorities. Sibling rivalry is a common occurrence in families and does not pose a threat to the child's safety. It is a social and developmental issue that can be addressed within the family.
Choice D rationale:
A 24-month-old toddler experiencing occasional incontinence does not require reporting to local authorities. Occasional incontinence can be a normal part of toddler development as they learn to control their bladder. It does not indicate abuse or immediate danger to the child.

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale: Administering an oral corticosteroid is not the first action the nurse should take. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and itching caused by poison ivy. However, they are usually prescribed if the symptoms are severe or if the rash covers a large area of the body. It’s important to note that corticosteroids can have side effects, especially when used for a long time, so they should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Choice B rationale: Applying calamine lotion to the affected area can help soothe the skin and relieve itching caused by poison ivy. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. The first step is to remove the oil from the skin that causes the allergic reaction. Calamine lotion can be applied after the area has been thoroughly washed.

Choice C rationale: Instructing the parent to give the child an oatmeal bath twice daily can help soothe the skin and relieve itching. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. Similar to calamine lotion, an oatmeal bath can be beneficial after the area has been thoroughly washed to remove the oil from the skin.

Choice D rationale: The first action the nurse should take when caring for a child exposed to poison ivy is to flush the area with cold, running water. This helps to remove the oil (urushiol) from the skin that causes the allergic reaction. It’s important to do this as soon as possible after exposure to help prevent the spread of the oil to other areas of the body or to other people. After flushing the area, the nurse can then apply calamine lotion or recommend an oatmeal bath to help soothe the skin and relieve itching.