Rebecca Sposato MS, RN

estimated 1,740 child fatalities in 2008. This translates to a rate of 2.33 children per 100,000 children in the general population

The true number is unknown due to child fatalities being mislabeled as accidents and different reporting criteria and methods between states

Fathers/boyfriends account for majority of abuse fatalities, and mothers account for majority of neglect fatalities

http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/fatality.cfm

Suspicious Bruising Patterns (90%)• Multiple stages of healing• Located on back, bilateral torso• Distinct shapes – hands, shoeprints, straps

Submersion burns The injury doesn’t match the story Spiral fractures Underweight/Failure to thrive

Perpetrator is often• Low income• Low education• Under 35• Poor coping skills• Stressed/depressed• Victim of abuse

during lifespan

Prevalence: 40/1000 children investigated for maltreatment, 12/1000 children are confirmed victims of maltreatment

Mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse by healthcare professionals

Have higher incidence of emotional, conduct, and personality disorders as adolescence and adults

Involved professionals• Pediatrician, nurse• Clinical psychologist, counselors, therapists• Law enforcement and professionals• Social workers• Educators

US Department for Health and Human Services (2011) www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/factsheets/fatality.cfm