The school nurse assesses a 12-year-old boy who came into her office for a nosebleed. She notices several bruises on his back and forearms in various healing stages. When she asks the boy about them, he is very deceptive. The nurse notifies child protective services of her suspicion. The next day, the boy's mother comes to the nurse's office and yells at her for calling child protective services. Which of the following responses is most appropriate?
The school nurse assesses a 12-year-old boy who came into her office for a nosebleed. She notices several bruises on his back and forearms in various healing stages. When she asks the boy about them, he is very deceptive. The nurse notifies child protective services of her suspicion. The next day, the boy's mother comes to the nurse's office and yells at her for calling child protective services. Which of the following responses is most appropriate?
A. “I am required by law to report any suspected violence.”
[98%]
B. “You should have thought about this before you abused your son.”
[1%]
C. “I’m so sorry. Please don’t take this out on me.”
[1%]
D. “Don’t talk to me about this. I don’t want to see you.”
[0%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Mental Health
Lesson
Abuse/Neglect
Client Need
Test Plan
Psychosocial Integrity
Related Topic
Abuse/Neglect
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice A is correct. The nurse is a mandatory reporter of any suspected violence and is required by law to report her suspicions. Parents may become upset and confront the nurse when these allegations come to light, but that should not stop the nurse from saying what she has seen. The nurse should remain calm when the parent confronts her and state that she is required to report any suspected violence.
Choice B is incorrect. This statement is an accusation and could further aggravate the mother. The nurse does not know that she abused her son and should not make statements like this. The nurse must remain calm and remember that she must report any suspected violence.
Choice C is incorrect. This statement is based on emotion, not fact. The nurse should not apologize to the mother. Instead, she should remain calm and inform her that she is required to report any suspected violence.
Choice D is incorrect. This is not an appropriate statement. By telling the mother, she doesn’t want to see her; she could further aggravate the mother and place herself in a dangerous situation. The nurse needs to remain calm and stick to the facts. If she feels unsafe with the mother, she should move to an open area where others are nearby.
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3 Key Topics
Abuse
