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GROUP 6 ACTIVITY FOR PRE-FINAL ( Part 2)

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder resulting from brain injury during development, leading to permanent motor and sensory deficits. Key complications include developmental delays, spasticity, and difficulties with eating, while nursing responsibilities focus on assessment, therapeutic support, and family education. The condition requires lifelong, multidisciplinary care to improve quality of life and promote independence.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
4 views15 pages

GROUP 6 ACTIVITY FOR PRE-FINAL ( Part 2)

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder resulting from brain injury during development, leading to permanent motor and sensory deficits. Key complications include developmental delays, spasticity, and difficulties with eating, while nursing responsibilities focus on assessment, therapeutic support, and family education. The condition requires lifelong, multidisciplinary care to improve quality of life and promote independence.

Uploaded by

tagubacecile
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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UNIVERSIDAD DE ZAMBOANGA - PAGADIAN CAMPUS

Airport Road, Zone 4, Brgy. Tiguma, Pagadian City 7016 (062) 945-2387
NURSING DEPARTMENT

GROUP ACTIVITY
FOR
NCM 109
Care of Mother and Child at Risk or with Problems (Acute/ Chronic)

BURNS IN CHILDREN
April 15, 2025

BSN 2-A GROUP 6 MEMBERS

PEROCHO, ALYSSA E.
PULA, MAR-AINA A.
SILARAS, LOVELY JOY A.
TAGUBA, ELICELL G.
TOBIAS, RIANNE-ARM BETHANIE G.
SUMMARY

A burn is an injury to the skin or deeper tissues Risk Factors in Children


caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, radiation, • Age and Development: Younger children
or friction. In children, burns are especially critical are at higher risk due to their exploratory
due to their thinner skin, which results in deeper behavior
tissue damage, higher risk of fluid loss, infection, • Lack of supervision (especially in toddlers)
and shock, even from minor injuries.In pediatric • Exposure to open flames, hot liquids,
cases of burns, it's crucial to assess the severity chemicals
based on the thickness and extent of the burn, the • Electrical outlets or faulty wiring
location on the body, duration of exposure, and • House fires
timing of presentation. Delays in seeking treatment • Abuse or neglect
can be significant, especially in potential child • Poor home safety
abuse cases.
Complications
Types of Burns: Burns are categorized into three • Infection (especially if blisters rupture)
types based on depth: • Fluid and electrolyte imbalance
• Shock
First Degree (Superficial) • Respiratory problems (e.g., smoke inhalation,
• Affects only the epidermis cyanide poisoning, carboxyhemoglobinemia)
• skin appears red, dry, and painful. • Scarring and contractures
• There is no blisters • Hypothermia
• Heals in 3–7 days without scarring • Delayed growth and development (in severe
• Example: Mild sunburn cases)
• Psychological trauma
Second Degree (Partial Thickness)
• Involves epidermis and part of the dermis Nursing Responsibilities
• Divided into:
Superficial partial-thickness: Red, moist, • Initial Assessment: Evaluate burn depth,
painful, blistered extent (TBSA), location, cause, and time.
Deep partial-thickness: Pale or white, may Monitor for smoke inhalation, cyanide
be less painful due to nerve damage, higher poisoning, and check ABCs and vital signs.
infection risk • Wound Care: Keep wounds clean/moist,
• Heals in 1–3 weeks (superficial) or longer avoid rupturing blisters, apply topical
(deep) antibiotics, and use sterile dressings.
• Pain Management: Give prescribed pain
Third Degree (Full Thickness) meds and provide comfort measures (e.g.,
• Involves all layers of the skin, possibly distraction, family presence).
muscles and bones • Infection Control: Use aseptic technique,
• Appears charred, dry, leathery, and usually watch for signs of infection (fever, pus, foul
painless smell).
• Requires skin grafting • Fluid Management: Follow resuscitation
• High risk of scarring and functional loss protocols (e.g., Parkland), monitor urine
output and electrolytes.
Clinical Manifestations • Nutrition: Encourage high-calorie, high-
protein diet; may need feeding support in
• Pain, varying by depth of burn severe cases.
• Redness, swelling, or blistering • Emotional Support: Reassure child and
• Dry, leathery or charred skin family, involve parents, and refer for
• Lack of sensation (in full-thickness burns) psychological help if needed.
• Fever (if infection develops) • Education/Prevention: Teach burn safety,
• Signs of shock: low blood pressure, rapid wound care, and signs of infection.
pulse, altered mental state • Rehabilitation: Work with PT to prevent
• Soot in nose/mouth, coughing, or contractures and support return to normal
respiratory distress (suggestive of smoke activities.
inhalation)
Early intervention, effective pain management, and
prevention education are crucial in children’s well-
being. By prioritizing these aspects, we can reduce
the impact of burns and improve the quality of life
for affected children and their families.
NURSING ASSESSMENT

Clinical Manifestations
Risk Factors
Superficial (1st-degree): • Exposure to open flames, hot surfaces or liquids
• Red, dry, painful skin
• Housefires or sun exposure
• No blistering • Electrical injury (e.g., lightning strikes)

• Example: mild sunburn • Delayed treatment presentation (may also


indicate abuse)

Partial Thickness (2nd-degree): • Presence of burning plastics (risk of cyanide


exposure)
• Superficial: Red, moist, blistered, edematous

skin; painful

• Deep: Pale or white areas; less blistering;

less pain due to nerve injury

Complications
Full Thickness (3rd-degree):

• Superinfection, especially after blister


• Leathery or charred skin rupture

• Typically painless (nerve destruction) • Dehydration and fluid loss


• Electrolyte imbalance
• High risk of scarring
• Respiratory complications (due to smoke or
chemical inhalation)
Associated Symptoms:
• Scarring and long-term disfigurement
• Emotional trauma, particularly in abuse
• Signs of smoke inhalation (e.g., coughing,
cases
hoarseness) • Possible organ involvement (in electrical

• Possible cyanide poisoning (if plastics were burns)


• Cyanide or carbon monoxide poisoning
burned)

• Internal injuries in electrical burns

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)

• Anemia
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES

Nursing Responsibilities for Burns in Children

1. Assess the depth, extent, and location of the burn upon admission.

2. Monitor airway closely, especially in suspected inhalation injury; prepare for emergency intubation if

needed.

3. Administer prescribed oxygen therapy for smoke or chemical inhalation.

4. Start IV access and administer prescribed fluids for resuscitation (especially in moderate to severe

burns).

5. Monitor vital signs frequently for signs of shock, infection, or respiratory distress.

6. Apply prescribed topical antibiotics to open or ruptured blisters to prevent infection.

7. Do not rupture blisters—keep intact to reduce risk of infection unless ordered.

8. Administer prescribed analgesics and assess pain regularly; provide comfort measures.

9. Observe for signs of superinfection, such as increased redness, swelling, or fever.

10. Provide wound care using sterile techniques as prescribed.

11. Collaborate with the healthcare team for laboratory tests such as CBC, electrolytes, CPK, EKG, and

carboxyhemoglobin if needed.

12. Prevent complications like dehydration, contractures, and scarring through timely interventions.

13. Support emotional needs of the child; provide reassurance and therapeutic communication.

14. Educate parents/caregivers on proper wound care, signs of infection, medication adherence, and

follow-up visits.

15. Report any signs of abuse (e.g., delayed care, burn patterns inconsistent with history) to proper

authorities.

16. Refer to specialists (e.g., burn unit, plastic surgery, mental health) as needed.

17. Promote mobility and range-of-motion exercises once allowed to prevent stiffness.

18. Encourage nutrition and hydration to support healing.

19. Document all findings, interventions, and responses accurately and promptly.
CONCLUSION

Burns in children are more than just injuries to the skin because they are painful, traumatic experiences
that can affect a child’s physical, emotional, and psychological development. In many cases, burns happen in an
instant just like a child accidentally spills hot water, touches a heated surface out of curiosity, or is caught in a
fire without understanding the danger. However, we must also acknowledge the heartbreaking reality that some
burns are not accidental. In situations of abuse or neglect, the injury becomes a sign of something deeper, a cry
for help often hidden beneath silence and fear. Understanding the type, depth, and severity of a burn is only one
part of the bigger picture. Every blister, scar, or burn mark tells a story that sometimes of accident, sometimes
of carelessness, and other times of mistreatment. These wounds may heal on the outside, but they leave a lasting
impact on a child’s life. Pain, mobility issues, emotional distress, and loss of confidence are only some of the
long-term consequences that can follow if proper care is delayed or neglected.

Nursing care in these situations plays a vital role not only in promoting physical healing but also in
restoring the child's sense of safety and dignity. Nurses are among the first to assess the severity, initiate
prescribed treatments, provide pain management, and monitor for complications. But beyond the medical
responsibilities, they also offer emotional support, report suspected abuse, and advocate for the child’s well-
being. Through consistent, compassionate, and knowledgeable care, nurses help rebuild not just skin, but hope
and trust. A burned child is a vulnerable patient. What they need is not only treatment, but attention,
understanding, and action. With every case of pediatric burn, we are reminded of how fragile life is and how
important it is to create safe, nurturing environments where children can grow without fear of harm. Early
assessment, proper management, and genuine care can turn a moment of tragedy into a journey of healing. And
that journey begins the moment someone chooses to truly see the child behind the injury.
UNIVERSIDAD DE ZAMBOANGA - PAGADIAN CAMPUS
Airport Road, Zone 4, Brgy. Tiguma, Pagadian City 7016 (062) 945-2387
NURSING DEPARTMENT

GROUP ACTIVITY
FOR
NCM 109
Care of Mother and Child at Risk or with Problems (Acute/ Chronic)

CEREBRAL PALSY
April 15, 2025

BSN 2-A GROUP 6 MEMBERS

PEROCHO, ALYSSA E.
PULA, MAR-AINA A.
SILARAS, LOVELY JOY A.
TAGUBA, ELICELL G.
TOBIAS, RIANNE-ARM BETHANIE G
SUMMARY
Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder caused by Complications
an injury to the developing brain, most often before, Complications of cerebral palsy can include:
during, or shortly after birth. This injury leads to a • Developmental delays in physical, speech,
and cognitive skills.
non-progressive (static) encephalopathy, meaning
• Spasticity and muscle contractures
the condition does not worsen over time. As leading to deformities.
neurons in the brain do not regenerate, damage to • Difficulty with eating and swallowing
the brain during development results in permanent (dysphagia), which can lead to malnutrition
motor and sometimes sensory deficits. The and dehydration.
condition affects motor control and may also • Seizures in some cases.
involve cognitive impairment, depending on the • Psychosocial issues related to the child’s
limitations.
severity and location of the injury.

Clinical Manifestations
Nursing Responsibilities
The primary clinical manifestations of cerebral
• Assessment: Monitor for abnormal physical
palsy are motor-related, with varying degrees of exams such as hypertonia, spasticity, and
spasticity, athetosis (involuntary movements), and developmental delays (e.g., motor dysfunction,
dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). The types of abnormal reflexes).
motor impairments depend on the specific area of • Diagnosis: Regularly evaluate for signs of
the brain affected: cerebral palsy during follow-up visits (e.g.,
• Spastic CP (due to pyramidal tract damage) asymmetry in movement, lack of motor milestones).
results in muscle stiffness and spasms. It can • Therapeutic Support: Collaborate with
multidisciplinary teams to implement prescribed
lead to paraplegia (leg paralysis),
physical therapy, special education, and adaptive
hemiplegia (one side of the body), or skills training.
quadriplegia (all limbs affected). • Pain and Spasticity Management: Administer
• Athetoid CP (due to extrapyramidal tract prescribed muscle relaxants to manage spasticity
damage) causes involuntary, writhing and discomfort.
movements, similar to those seen in • Nutritional Support: Ensure prescribed feeding
Huntington's disease. interventions for dysphagia (e.g., thickened liquids,
tube feeding if needed).
• Developmental delays in motor skills and
• Education: Provide families with education on
cognitive abilities are common.
cerebral palsy, prescribed therapies (e.g., physical
• Sensory deficits may also be present, such therapy, medications), and assistive devices to
as difficulty with vision or hearing. improve daily function.
Risk Factors • Long-Term Care: Facilitate regular follow-ups
Risk factors for cerebral palsy can be categorized to assess development and progress, coordinating
into maternal, prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal: with healthcare providers for continued therapy and
necessary interventions.
• Maternal: Infections, preterm labor, multiple
gestations (twins, triplets), and low maternal
health.
• Prenatal: Intrauterine growth retardation, Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition that requires
TORCH infections (Toxoplasmosis, Other, multidisciplinary care, including early diagnosis,
Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes), and physical and educational therapy, and family
congenital anomalies. support. While the condition is non-progressive, its
• Perinatal: Low Apgar score, precipitous management focuses on improving quality of life,
delivery, and complications during labor. minimizing complications, and promoting
• Postnatal: Trauma, intraventricular hemorrhage, independence. Nurses play a crucial role in early
and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (lack of detection, providing ongoing care, and supporting
oxygen to the brain). families throughout the child’s development.

Types of Cerebral Palsy:

• Spastic: damage to the pyramidal tract;


associated with increased muscle tone and
upper motor neuron lesions.
• Athetoid (Dyskinetic): damage to the
extrapyramidal tract (e.g., basal ganglia);
involuntary writhing movements and poor
coordination.
NURSING ASSESSMENT

CEREBRAL PALSY

Clinical Manifestations:

• Motor impairments: spasticity, athetosis, paraplegia, diplegia, hemiplegia, or quadriplegia.

• Neurological signs: hypertonia, hyperreflexia, asymmetric reflexes.

• Developmental delays: delay in milestones, inability to perform age-appropriate motor tasks.

• Other symptoms: microcephaly, dysphagia, sensory deficits, possible visual/hearing impairment,

possible intellectual disability.

Risk Factors:

• Maternal Factors: infections during pregnancy (e.g., TORCH), preterm labor, multiple gestations.

• Prenatal Factors: intrauterine growth restriction, congenital anomalies.

• Perinatal Factors: low Apgar score, precipitous delivery.

• Postnatal Factors: neonatal trauma, kernicterus, intraventricular hemorrhage, hypoxic-ischemic

encephalopathy.

Complications:

• Muscle contractures and deformities

• Feeding difficulties and aspiration

• Seizures

• Communication barriers

• Orthopedic problems

• Intellectual and learning disabilities

• Emotional and behavioral issues


NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Monitoring and Assessment:

• Continual developmental assessment and monitoring of motor function, reflexes, and behavior.

• Observe for signs of aspiration, muscle tightness, or feeding issues.

• Monitor growth and nutrition.

2. Promote Mobility and Function:

• Collaborate with physical therapists for exercise regimens.

• Encourage use of assistive devices like braces or wheelchairs.

• Support adaptive skills and activities of daily living.

3. Communication and Education:

• Educate parents about the condition, expected outcomes, and therapies.

• Provide emotional support to families and caregivers.

• Teach feeding techniques and safety precautions.

4. Prevention of Complications:

• Positioning to prevent contractures and pressure injuries.

• Seizure precaution education and monitoring.

• Monitor for respiratory issues related to poor muscle control.

5. Support Services:

• Refer to special education programs, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

• Assist in accessing financial and social support for long-term care.


CONCLUSION

Cerebral palsy is more than just a condition because it is a lifelong diagnosis that can shape the journey
of a child and their family. At its core, cerebral palsy is a result of injury to the developing brain. Since neurons,
especially in the brain, do not regenerate once damaged, the injury is usually irreversible. This leads to a static,
non-progressive encephalopathy that primarily affects motor function. Unlike degenerative disorders that
worsen over time, cerebral palsy stays constant. However, its effects can be profound, involving spastic or
athetoid movements, difficulties with coordination, and sometimes impairments in vision, hearing, or cognitive
abilities. Some children may experience paraplegia, hemiplegia, or even quadriplegia, depending on the area
and extent of brain involvement. The most common risk factors include low birth weight and preterm birth,
though other contributors span from maternal infections and multiple gestations to complications like
intraventricular hemorrhage or hypoxic-ischemic events after birth. Despite its serious nature, cerebral palsy is a
clinical diagnosis, not something confirmed solely by MRI or lab tests. Nurses and doctors must rely on
repeated physical exams, developmental monitoring, and careful observation of reflexes, tone, and muscle
control to reach an accurate assessment. In practice, hypertonia, asymmetric reflexes, and delays in milestones
often guide the diagnosis.

While there is no cure, management centers on support but through physical therapy, occupational
therapy, speech training, adaptive education, and assistive devices like braces or walkers. Nursing care plays a
vital role in helping both the child and their caregivers navigate the everyday challenges cerebral palsy presents.
Compassionate communication, timely intervention, and coordination with a multidisciplinary team are
essential to enhance the child's quality of life. Though cerebral palsy may set limits, it does not define a child’s
potential. Every effort no matter how small it may be but it helps these children grow, move, and connect with
the world in their own powerful way.
UNIVERSIDAD DE ZAMBOANGA - PAGADIAN CAMPUS
Airport Road, Zone 4, Brgy. Tiguma, Pagadian City 7016 (062) 945-2387
NURSING DEPARTMENT

GROUP ACTIVITY
FOR
NCM 109
Care of Mother and Child at Risk or with Problems (Acute/ Chronic)

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

April 15, 2025

BSN 2-A GROUP 6 MEMBERS

PEROCHO, ALYSSA E.
PULA, MAR-AINA A.
SILARAS, LOVELY JOY A.
TAGUBA, ELICELL G.
TOBIAS, RIANNE-ARM BETHANIE G.
SUMMARY

Child abuse is any intentional mistreatment or harm Risk Factors:


to a child under the age of 18. It is a criminal • Family and Environmental Factors:
offense in most parts of the world and is strictly o Domestic violence
prosecuted. The impact of child abuse is long- o Substance abuse by caregivers
lasting, often affecting the child’s emotional, o Mental health issues of parents
o Poverty and lack of social support
mental, and psychological development.
o History of family violence
o Caregiver stress, including young or
Types of Child Abuse:
inexperienced parents
1. Physical Abuse:
Complications:
Intentional physical violence aimed at • Physical Impact:
injuring or harming the child. o Severe injuries, broken bones,
2. Sexual Abuse: bruises
Any sexual activity involving a child, o Long-term physical disabilities due
including exploitation, intercourse, and to trauma
• Psychological and Emotional Impact:
exposure to pornography.
o Chronic depression and anxiety
3. Emotional Abuse: o PTSD, low self-esteem, difficulty
Intentional harm to a child's emotional well- forming healthy relationships
being, often through verbal assault, o Behavioral issues, aggression, and
rejection, or isolation. trust difficulties
4. Medical Abuse: • Developmental Delays:
Exposing a child to unnecessary medical o Poor cognitive, emotional, and social
development
care based on false information.
o Academic failure or learning
5. Neglect: disabilities
Failing to provide necessary shelter,
supervision, affection, education, or medical Nursing Responsibilities
care.
Clinical Manifestations: • Assess for signs of physical, emotional, and
sexual abuse.
• General Signs of Abuse: • Document injuries, behaviors, and
o Depression, anxiety, and a loss of explanations accurately.
self-confidence • Report suspected abuse immediately to
o Withdrawal from activities and peers authorities.
o Aggressive or moody behavior • Provide wound care and emergency support
o Self-harm or suicidal tendencies as prescribed.
o Frequent school absences • Ensure child safety during hospitalization or
o Reluctance to return home care.
o Rebellious or defiant behavior • Support emotional needs through therapeutic
• Physical Abuse Signs: communication.
o Unexplained injuries or bruises • Refer to mental health services for therapy
o Inconsistent or false explanations for or counseling as prescribed.
injuries • Collaborate with social workers and child
• Sexual Abuse Signs: protection agencies.
o Inappropriate sexual behavior with • Educate caregivers on safe and nurturing
peers parenting practices.
o Blood in underwear or sudden • Follow up to monitor physical and
pregnancy emotional recovery.
• Emotional Abuse Signs:
o Delayed emotional development Child abuse is a silent crisis that often goes
o Depression, lack of confidence unnoticed. As frontline healthcare providers,
o Decline in academic performance nurses must remain vigilant, advocate for the
o Avoidance of certain situations child’s safety, and deliver both medical and
emotional support. Early intervention can break
the cycle of abuse and lead to a safer, healthier
future for the child.
NURSING ASSESSMENT
Nursing Assessment for Child Abuse and Neglect • Postnatal Risk Factors:
o Physical and emotional trauma
Clinical Manifestations: inflicted by caregivers, including any
form of abuse.
• Physical Abuse: Unexplained injuries (bruises, o Inadequate supervision or care in the
fractures), inconsistent injury explanations, injuries home environment, leading to
in different healing stages. neglect.
o Poverty or low socioeconomic status,
• Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate sexual behavior, which can limit access to necessary
blood in underwear, pregnancy, or STIs. resources and support systems for
both the child and caregivers.
• Emotional Abuse: Delayed emotional o Caregiver mental illness, substance
development, depression, low self-esteem, abuse, or stress, which can lead to
withdrawal, and academic decline. neglect or abusive behavior toward
the child.
• Neglect: Failure to provide food, shelter, o Parental history of abuse or violent
clothing, or supervision; poor hygiene; untreated behavior, which can perpetuate a
medical conditions. cycle of abuse.

• Behavioral Signs: Depression, anxiety, self- Complications of Child Abuse and Neglect
harm, withdrawal, fear of home, aggressive
behavior. • Physical Complications:
o Long-term injuries, disabilities, or
Risk Factors: permanent scarring
o Chronic health issues due to
• Maternal Risk Factors: untreated medical conditions or
o Substance abuse during pregnancy, neglect
leading to physical or developmental • Emotional and Psychological
impairments in the child. Complications:
o Poor maternal mental health (e.g., o Post-traumatic stress disorder
depression, anxiety, or stress), which (PTSD)
can lead to neglectful behavior or o Depression, anxiety, and other mood
inability to care for the child disorders
adequately. o Difficulty forming healthy
o Teenage or inexperienced parents relationships
who may lack parenting skills or o Low self-esteem and trust issues
knowledge. • Developmental Complications:
o Single-parent households, o Delayed physical and emotional
particularly where there is a lack of development
support or resources. o Poor academic performance
• Prenatal Risk Factors: o Behavioral problems and increased
o Preterm labor or low birth weight, aggression
which can lead to developmental • Risk of Future Victimization or
delays and may increase the Perpetrating Abuse:
vulnerability to neglect or abuse. o Increased likelihood of becoming
o Intrauterine growth restriction, which perpetrators of abuse in adulthood
may cause health problems for the o Greater risk of future victimization in
child, increasing their vulnerability adolescence or adulthood.
to neglect.
o Exposure to infections such as
TORCH (Toxoplasmosis, Other
agents, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus,
and Herpes simplex) during
pregnancy, potentially leading to
developmental delays or physical
abnormalities.
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES

Nursing Responsibilities for Child Abuse and Neglect

1. Assessment and Identification

o Observe for signs of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and neglect

o Monitor for behavioral changes such as withdrawal, aggression, anxiety, and depression

o Document any unexplained injuries, bruises, or inconsistent explanations

2. Reporting and Documentation

o Report any suspected abuse or neglect immediately to appropriate authorities

o Accurately document findings, including quotes from the child or caregiver, and physical signs

3. Support and Safety

o Ensure the child’s immediate safety and remove them from harmful situations when necessary

o Provide a calm and non-judgmental environment for the child to feel safe and supported

4. Collaboration

o Work with doctors, psychologists, and social workers in the treatment plan

o Coordinate with child protection services and legal authorities when required

5. Education and Prevention

o Educate families on healthy parenting and child development

o Promote awareness of the signs and consequences of abuse and neglect


CONCLUSION

Child abuse and neglect remain critical public health and social issues that leave lasting effects on a
child's physical, emotional, and mental development. These acts whether physical, emotional, sexual, medical,
or due to neglect this often occur silently and are committed by people the child knows and trusts. This makes
the trauma even more painful and difficult for the child to express or understand. Children may show changes in
behavior, such as fear, depression, aggression, self-harm, and a sudden drop in school performance, yet many
continue to suffer quietly out of confusion or guilt. Recognizing the signs early is essential because the longer
the abuse continues, the deeper the impact becomes. The damage caused by abuse can last into adulthood,
leading to long-term emotional and psychological struggles, such as low self-esteem, difficulties forming
healthy relationships, and trust issues. As healthcare providers, we are in a vital position to detect early warning
signs during assessments, listen carefully to what is spoken and unspoken to create a safe space where a child
can feel protected and heard.

Our role as healthcare providers extends beyond care because we must also report suspected abuse,
work with interdisciplinary teams, educate families about healthy parenting, and guide survivors toward support
systems and professional help. Early medical treatment and psychological support, such as therapy, are key in
helping the child process trauma, rebuild trust, and regain their sense of self-worth. By standing up for
children’s rights and safety, we contribute to a world where every child can grow in a safe, nurturing, and
supportive environment. Moreover, healthcare providers have a role in prevention through community
education, parental support, and awareness campaigns. We must help families learn about positive parenting,
child development, and the consequences of neglect or abuse. Through compassion, dedication, and
professional action, we can contribute to breaking the cycle of abuse by restoring not just safety and health to
the child, but also giving them the hope and courage to move forward.In the end, protecting children is a shared
responsibility but in the hands of healthcare providers, it becomes a calling. A single intervention could change
or even save a child’s life.

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