Which finding would raise concern for possible physical abuse in a pediatric patient?

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Multiple Choice

Which finding would raise concern for possible physical abuse in a pediatric patient?

Bruises in areas other than bony prominences raise concern because most accidental injuries in children affect the bony spots where falls commonly happen (like elbows, knees, shins, or the forehead). When bruising shows up on softer tissue areas such as the trunk, buttocks, back, genitals, or in multiple bruises of different ages, it can indicate non-accidental trauma. A small bruise on the shin, a minor sprain, or a scratch on the hand can easily come from everyday activity and aren’t as suspicious on their own. So the location and pattern of bruising—especially if it’s in unusual places or there are several bruises at different healing stages—are red flags that warrant further assessment and careful documentation.

Bruises in areas other than bony prominences raise concern because most accidental injuries in children affect the bony spots where falls commonly happen (like elbows, knees, shins, or the forehead). When bruising shows up on softer tissue areas such as the trunk, buttocks, back, genitals, or in multiple bruises of different ages, it can indicate non-accidental trauma. A small bruise on the shin, a minor sprain, or a scratch on the hand can easily come from everyday activity and aren’t as suspicious on their own. So the location and pattern of bruising—especially if it’s in unusual places or there are several bruises at different healing stages—are red flags that warrant further assessment and careful documentation.

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