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Bruising in non-mobile infant — MRCPCH FOP MCQ

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HardSafeguardingBruising in non-mobile infantMRCPCH FOP

A 4-month-old baby is seen with a bruise on the cheek. Parents report he rolled into a toy, but he is not yet rolling and examination shows two further bruises on the upper arm. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: C — Discuss urgently with the safeguarding lead and children's social care

Bruising in a non-mobile infant, especially on the face and upper arm, is a safeguarding red flag needing urgent escalation. Reassurance is unsafe because the developmental explanation does not fit. Photographs may support documentation but do not replace same-day safeguarding action. The pearl is that premobility changes the significance of bruising.

Reference: NICE CG89 Child maltreatment; RCPCH Child Protection Companion