Which is an evidence-based approach for further assessment by a school nurse, who notices bruises and scars on a 5-year-old child's body, but the child refuses to disclose how they received them?

A. Paranoid personality disorder: Paranoid personality disorder is characterized by pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others. Individuals with this disorder may have delusions of persecution but typically do not have bizarre or magical beliefs such as mind reading. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

B. Schizotypal personality disorder: Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by eccentric behavior, odd beliefs, and magical thinking, including ideas like being able to read minds. The client’s statement is indicative of the type of odd beliefs and thoughts associated with this disorder. This choice is correct.

C. Avoidant personality disorder: Avoidant personality disorder is marked by extreme shyness, fear of rejection, and social inhibition. Individuals with this disorder do not typically exhibit bizarre thoughts or delusions such as mind reading. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

D. Antisocial personality disorder: Antisocial personality disorder is characterized by a disregard for the rights of others, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and a lack of remorse. It is not typically associated with delusional or magical thinking such as believing one can read minds. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

A. Follow the established protocol for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities: This is the correct approach according to child protection guidelines. School personnel are mandated reporters and must report suspected abuse or neglect to protect the child's safety.

B. Convince the child to disclose the cause of the injuries through gentle questioning and persuasion: This approach can inadvertently pressure the child and is not recommended as it may lead to further distress or inaccurate information.

C. Respect the child's privacy and wait for them to share information about the injuries voluntarily: While respecting privacy is important, child protection takes precedence when there are signs of abuse or neglect.

D. Document and discuss the observations with the child's teacher to gather more information: While documentation is important, it should not delay reporting suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.