Suspect bite caused by abuse
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Suspect bite caused by abuse
Most bite injuries are not the result of abuse. However, you should suspect physical abuse of a child or vulnerable adult when:
- Bites occur in unusual places, such as the back, the buttocks, or the back of the legs or arms.
- Any bite injury cannot be explained or does not match the explanation.
- Repeated bite injuries occur.
- Explanations change for how the bite injury happened.
You may be able to prevent further abuse by reporting it.
- If you suspect child abuse, call your local child or adult protective agency, police, clergy, or a health professional (such as a doctor, nurse, or counselor).
- If you suspect elder abuse, report it.
- If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, seek help to prevent further abuse.
If you have trouble controlling your anger with a child in your care, resources are available for help.
Credits
| Author | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Last Updated | June 10, 2008 |
| Last updated: | June 10, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS |
| Reviewed By: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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