Child/Elder Abuse Flashcards
Risk factors for child maltreatment (6)
- Infant is fussy/colicky
- Child is hyperactive
- Kid is chronically ill/medically fragile
- Kid is not biologically related
- Child is/was premature
- Caregiver is a substance abuser
What are the four main types of child abuse?
- Neglect* (most common cause of death in abused children)
- Emotional
- Physical
- Sexual
If a physician suspects neglect of a child they should…
Do a full medical hx, psychosocial hx, physical exam.
*When in doubt, contact Child protective services
Suspicious signs of child abuse on PE (3)
- Weird fractures (Posterior rib, Scapula, Spinous process, Sternum)
- Burns
- Metaphyseal lesions
Do sexually abused children show a specific behavior, sign, or symptoms that are diagnostic?
No.
Most never talk about it
Most victims are 9-12 yo
If an immediate interview is necessary for a sexual abuse case of a minor, what practice should the interviewer use?
Minimal facts interview
Very high risk populations for sexual abuse
- Deaf children
- Developmentally disabled adults
- Transgender individuals
also intellectually disabled & LGBTQ
Elder abuse victim risk factors (4)
- Victim suffers from dementia or a psychiatric dx
- Victim is physically dependent
- Victim is incontinent
- Abuser is a substance abuser
A 86 yo patient presents who is frail, hard of seeing and hearing, and smells like they haven’t bathed in days. You look at their chart and see they were previously recommended to have a daily nutrient drink increased nutrition & several health aids (glasses, dentures & hearing aids). What kind of abuse should you be worried about?
These are signs of neglect in elder abuse
Where do injuries usually present on elderly pts who are suspected victims of abuse?
Bruises are often bilaterally & on inner surfaces of arms. Spiral fractures may be seen from twisting of limb.
