A 4-year-old boy presents with multiple bruises on the shins and forearms. His parents report he is very active and often falls. Bruises are over bony...

Question

A 4-year-old boy presents with multiple bruises on the shins and forearms. His parents report he is very active and often falls. Bruises are over bony prominences and at different stages of healing. There are no bruises on the trunk, ears, neck or genitalia. How should you proceed?

Accepted Answer

Reassure the parents that findings are consistent with normal play-related bruising

Answer

Immediately report to child protection services without further assessment

Answer

Order coagulation studies only

Answer

Discharge without documentation

Answer

Admit the child to hospital for observation

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Distinguishing accidental from abusive bruising

A 4-year-old boy presents with multiple bruises on the shins and forearms. His parents report he is very active and often falls. Bruises are over bony prominences and at different stages of healing. There are no bruises on the trunk, ears, neck or genitalia. How should you proceed?