The nurse is working in a community clinic when a man and woman bring a 12-year-old boy in,stating that the child fell down a flight of stairs and hurt his arm.The nurse notices several other bruises on the child's body at varying stages of healing.The boy is placed on the stretcher.When asked how he hurt himself,he states that he does not remember.However,the nurse notices that the boy continuously avoids looking at the man,while the man stares at him constantly.What should the nurse do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ask the man and woman to step out of the room.When dealing with patients at risk for or who have suffered abuse,it is important to provide protection and to interview the patient at a time when he or she has privacy and the individual suspected of being the abuser is not present.The boy may be less likely to be forthcoming with his attacker in the room.Confronting either adult directly may lead to violence.The other adult may also be a victim of abuse and may fear retribution if their problems are discussed with health care providers.

The Nurse Is Working in a Community Clinic When a Man