A school nurse recognizes a belt buckle-shaped ecchymosis on a 7-year-old student. When privately asked about how the injury occurred, the student described falling on the playground. Which action will the nurse take next?

A) Talk to the principal about how to proceed.
B) Disregard the finding based upon child's response.
C) Interview the patient in the presence of the teacher.
D) Contact social services and report suspected abuse.

Most states mandate a report to a social service center if nurses suspect abuse or neglect. When abuse is suspected, the nurse interviews the patient in private, not with a teacher. Observe the behavior of the individual for any signs of frustration, explanations that do not fit his or her physical presentation, or signs of injury. The nurse knows how to proceed and does not need to talk to the principal about what to do. Disregarding the finding is not advised because victims often will not complain or report that they are in an abusive situation.