Question

A 5-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department with multiple bruises of different ages over his back and thighs. His mother says he is clumsy and often falls, but her explanation does not match the injury pattern. He is medically stable. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Discuss your concerns with the safeguarding lead and make an urgent referral to children''s social care

Answer

Discharge the child with advice to return if further bruising occurs

Answer

Accept the mother''s explanation and document the findings

Answer

Call the police directly and ask them to investigate before informing anyone else

Answer

Delay any action until you can obtain previous notes from the GP

Practice question

A 5-year-old boy is brought to the emergency department with multiple bruises of different ages over his back and thighs. His mother says he is clumsy and often falls, but her explanation does not match the injury pattern. He is medically stable. What is the most appropriate next step?