Child maltreatment: interventions to improve recognition and reporting

Kathleen Sanders Jordan1, Sara Hatfield Steelman

  • 1Author Affiliations: 1The University of North Carolina at Charlotte School of Nursing; 2Mid-Atlantic Emergency Medicine Associates; and 3Pediatric Emergency Department, Mid-Atlantic Emergency Medicine Associates.

Insights

Child maltreatment poses a significant public health threat. Forensic nurses can lead interventions to improve recognition, reporting, and prevention of child abuse and neglect.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics
  • Forensic Nursing

Background:

  • Child maltreatment is a major public health issue impacting children, families, and society.
  • Despite existing laws, child maltreatment remains underrecognized and underreported.
  • Effective interventions are crucial for child maltreatment prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the scope of child maltreatment.
  • To identify barriers to recognition and reporting.
  • To suggest evidence-based interventions for primary and secondary prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Evidence-based discussion.
  • Literature review on child maltreatment scope, barriers, and interventions.
  • Analysis of the role of forensic nurses in prevention.

Main Results:

  • Child maltreatment is a pervasive problem with substantial negative effects.
  • Underrecognition and underreporting are significant challenges.
  • Forensic nurses are well-positioned to lead prevention efforts.

Conclusions:

  • Child maltreatment requires urgent attention and effective interventions.
  • Addressing barriers to recognition and reporting is essential.
  • Forensic nurses play a vital role in child protection and prevention strategies.

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