Citation

Thomas H, Cromb D, Alcock A, Jacob H. Arch. Dis. Child. Educ. Pract. Ed. 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/archdischild-2023-326109

PMID

38071544

Abstract

The second case in the Safeguarding Essentials in Modern-day Paediatrics series, this article focuses on inflicted injuries, body maps and child protection investigations (CPIs). Using the scenario of a 6-year-old presenting to the emergency department having 'fallen off a swing', this article focuses on key considerations for history taking and examination in cases where you suspect injuries may have been inflicted, and how to discuss raising these suspicions with the family, as well as the importance of accurate body map completion. Also covered are CPIs, giving consideration to the legal framework surrounding these, and relevant useful resources and guidance are provided for dealing with the challenging circumstances that arise when physical abuse is first suspected.

Language: en

Keywords

Child Welfare; Child Abuse; Child Protective Services; Infant Welfare; Paediatric Emergency Medicine