NURSING CARE
Ask Sarah and Ken to give more details about Tia's injuries and how they occurred. As they explain, determine whether their description of the incident matches the type of injury presented on Tia and note any inconsistencies between the partners first and second account's of Tia's fall. Assess Tia for behavioral indicators of abuse. Is she fearful of Ken and her Mother, or is she unusually affectionate towards the hospital staff? These are all indicators the nurse should be observing and taking note of. Request that a social worker come into the room. Prepare to file a report of suspected child abuse with the lower mainland's child welfare agency. The agency will then decide if Tia should be removed from the custody of her parents. Whether or not the doctor agrees with your suspicion you are legally and ethically bound to report any suspected child abuse. Reporting in good faith will protect you from criminal or civil liability. Failing to report can be a criminal offense. Objectively document you findings in detail before you file the report. Chart exactly what Tia and her guardians said. Describe any physical injuries in concrete, specific terms. For example, document the color, shape, location, and distribution of the bruises. Inform Sarah, Tia's mother, that you will be filing a report.
Tia will be admitted to the pediatric unit for follow-up and treatment. The social worker will assess Tia's family for environmental stressors such as poverty, abuse, and substance abuse. The doctor may refer the family to counseling or support groups.
