What are the signs and symptoms of physical abuse of a child?
Your child may have unexplained repeated falls or injuries. He may have old injuries that were not treated when they happened. He may also have any of the following: • Abrasions (scratches), or bite marks. There may be marks from objects used for restraining, such as belts, ropes, or electrical cords. • Broken or dislocated bones. • Contusions (bruises), especially on both upper arms (grab marks). • Lacerations (cuts) or scars. • Scars or burns from cigarettes, irons, or hot water. • Unexplained blood or discharge coming from the nose, mouth, or eyes. • Unusual loss of hair in body areas. How is physical abuse of a child diagnosed? A caregiver will take a detailed health history from you, your child, or other family members or carers. This may include information on the kind of physical abuse your child may have had. He may be asked if he has been hit, slapped, injured, or punished by too much spanking. Caregivers may also want to know who the abuser is, and how long the abuse has been
