Hidden Child Abuse Identification in the Emergency Department

Abstract

Child abuse is a worldwide dilemma. The World Health Organization estimates that in children younger than 15 years, child abuse or neglect accounts for approximately 13% of the 1.2 million deaths due to injury worldwide. [1] Boos SC Endom EE Physical abuse in children: epidemiology and clinical manifestations. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/physical-abuse-in-children-epidemiology-and-clinical-manifestations?source=search_result&search=physical+abuse+in+children+epidemiology+clinical+manifestations&selectedTitle=1~150 Google Scholar The definition of child abuse and neglect varies widely depending on the country and culture. Broadly, child abuse can be defined as injury caused by a parent or caretaker. In the United States, each state is responsible for defining child abuse and neglect within federal guidelines. [1] Boos SC Endom EE Physical abuse in children: epidemiology and clinical manifestations. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/physical-abuse-in-children-epidemiology-and-clinical-manifestations?source=search_result&search=physical+abuse+in+children+epidemiology+clinical+manifestations&selectedTitle=1~150 Google Scholar Federal guidelines are outlined in the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Reauthorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111–320), which defines child abuse as any recent act or failure to act that results in death or risk for serious harm that is physical, emotional, exploitation, or sexual abuse; involves children younger than 18 years unless the child protective laws of the state stipulate a younger age; and includes the parent, stepparent, caretaker, employee of a residential facility, and staff providing out-of-home care who are responsible for a child’s care. [1] Boos SC Endom EE Physical abuse in children: epidemiology and clinical manifestations. http://www.uptodate.com/contents/physical-abuse-in-children-epidemiology-and-clinical-manifestations?source=search_result&search=physical+abuse+in+children+epidemiology+clinical+manifestations&selectedTitle=1~150 Google Scholar Patricia A. Normandin, Member, Massachusetts ENA Beacon Chapter, is ED Staff Nurse, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA.