Warning signs of child abuse

Warning signs of child abuse

Physical evidence of abuse and or neglect, including previous
injuries
Conflicting stories about the "accident" or injury from the parents
or others
Cause of injury blamed on sibling or other party
An injury inconsistent with the history, such as a concussion and
broken arm from falling off a bed
History inconsistent with child's developmental level, such as a
6-month-old turning on the hot water
A complaint other than the one associated with signs of abuse
(e.g, a chief complaint of a cold when there is evidence of
first- and second-degree bums)
Inappropriate response of caregiver, such as an exaggerated or
absent emotional response; refusal to sign for additional tests or
agree to necessary treatment; excessive delay in seeking
treatment; absence of the parents for questioning
Inappropriate response of child, such as little or no response to
pain; fear of being touched; excessive or lack of separation
anxiety; indiscriminate friendliness to strangers
Child's report of physical or sexual abuse
Previous reports of abuse in the family
Repeated visits to emergency facilities with injuries