A 5-year-old child presents with bruises and burns in various stages of healing. What is the priority nursing intervention?

The priority nursing intervention in this scenario is to report the suspicion of maltreatment according to local regulations. When a child presents with suspicious injuries, such as bruises and burns in various stages of healing, it is critical to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Reporting is a mandated action for healthcare providers when there is reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect.

By reporting the concern, the nurse activates the appropriate protective measures and allows trained professionals, such as child protective services, to investigate and intervene if necessary. This step is crucial for protecting the child from potential further harm and ensuring they receive the appropriate support and care. The child's immediate safety must be prioritized above other considerations, which is why reporting suspected maltreatment is the correct action.

While documenting the injuries is important, it serves as a part of the overall assessment rather than being the immediate priority. Ensuring the child receives medical care is also vital, but if maltreatment is suspected, addressing the safety concern takes precedence. Contacting the child's parents for history could provide useful information; however, it may also compromise the investigation or the child's safety, particularly if the parents are involved in the suspected maltreatment. Thus, reporting the suspicion aligns with protective protocols and prioritizes the child's health and safety.