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Inflicted injury — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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HardSafeguarding, development, mental healthInflicted injuryRACP Paediatrics

A 7-month-old is brought with bruising over the trunk and pinna. The history is that he rolled off a low couch, but he is not yet rolling independently; examination shows a healing frenulum injury. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Ensure immediate safety, make a mandatory child protection report and arrange forensic medical assessment

Bruising in a non-mobile infant, ear/trunk bruising and an inconsistent developmental history are highly concerning for inflicted injury, requiring immediate safety planning, mandatory reporting and expert assessment. Low-height falls do not explain this pattern. The pearl is that developmental capability is central when judging whether an injury history is plausible.

Reference: RCH Clinical Practice Guidelines: Child abuse; State child protection legislation and guidance