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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Program Management
Program management is the process of managing multiple related projects in a coordinated way to achieve the overall strategic goals of the program. It involves planning, executing, and controlling these projects to ensure they align with the broader objectives. Program management focuses on optimizing resources, managing interdependencies, and delivering benefits that are greater than the sum of individual project outcomes.
Choice B: Defining Goals
Defining goals is a crucial step in any project or program, as it sets the direction and objectives that need to be achieved. However, it is not the process that involves the coordination of related projects. Defining goals is more about establishing what needs to be accomplished rather than managing the execution and interdependencies of multiple projects.
Choice C: Project Implementation
Project implementation refers to the execution phase of a project where plans are put into action to achieve the project objectives. While it is a critical part of project management, it does not encompass the broader coordination of multiple related projects. Project implementation focuses on delivering the specific outcomes of a single project.
Choice D: Developing a Timeline
Developing a timeline is an essential part of project planning, as it outlines the schedule for completing tasks and milestones. However, it is not the process that coordinates multiple related projects. A timeline helps manage the schedule of a single project but does not address the interdependencies and resource allocation across multiple projects.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Using distractions like watching TV can be an effective non-pharmacological intervention for managing pain. Distraction techniques work by diverting the patient's attention away from the pain, which can help reduce the perception of pain. However, while this method can be helpful, it may not provide sufficient relief for more intense pain.
Choice B Reason:
Giving the medication even though it is not due yet is not advisable. Administering medication outside of the prescribed schedule can lead to potential overdose and other adverse effects. It is crucial to adhere to the medication schedule to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient.
Choice C Reason:
The use of acupuncture is a recognized method for pain management and has been shown to be effective in various settings. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain. However, it requires specialized training and may not be readily available in all correctional facilities.
Choice D Reason:
Applying heat therapy to the pain area is a practical and effective intervention for pain relief. Heat therapy works by increasing blood flow to the affected area, which can help relax muscles and reduce pain. It is a simple, non-invasive method that can be easily implemented in a correctional setting.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today