MEDizzy - While assessing a 14-year-old child, the nurse notes bruises

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Psychosocial Integrity

While assessing a 14-year-old child, the nurse notes bruises and cigarette burns on the child’s chest and rope burns on the buttocks. The child states, “I’m afraid to go home because my stepfather will be angry with me for telling on him!” The nurse should make which therapeutic response to the child?

ExplanationA child who has been physically and sexually abused should be admitted to the hospital. This will provide time for a more comprehensive evaluation while protecting the child from further abuse. The correct option also provides an empathic statement that supports the child to appropriately perceive himself or herself as the victim while assuring the child of protection from abuse. In option 1, the nurse does not respond with a calm and reassuring communication style or maintain a professional attitude. Option 2, which holds an innuendo, appears to accuse the victim of teasing the stepfather and is thus incorrect; it is also judgmental, controlling, and demeaning. The nurse’s suggestion in option 4 is not only incorrect but also passive in its stance.