Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

In the case of a toddler with circumferential burns and suspected child abuse, which information is most important for the nurse to document?

1. A description of the child's emotional state

2. A description of the burns

3. The history of the incident

4. The parents’ response to the injury

The correct answer is: A description of the burns

Documentation of the burns is crucial in cases of suspected child abuse, particularly with circumferential burns. This is because the characteristics of the burns can provide vital evidence regarding the nature and cause of the injury. When documenting the burns, it is important to include details such as the size, depth, and specific locations of the burns on the child's body. Each of these elements can help to assess the severity of the injuries and can indicate whether they are consistent with an accidental injury or suggest potential abuse. Circumferential burns, for instance, can pose a significant risk as they may lead to complications such as impaired circulation or respiratory difficulties, particularly if they encircle extremities or the trunk. While assessing the child’s emotional state, the history of the incident, and the parents' response to the injury are important in a comprehensive evaluation of the situation, the physical evidence provided by the description of the burns carries the most weight in establishing the facts surrounding the injury and guiding appropriate intervention and reporting to child protective services. This documentation can be critical in legal settings as well as in ensuring the child receives the necessary medical and psychological care.