Understanding and Addressing Child Abuse in Nursing Practice

Child abuse remains a critical public health issue that affects children across all communities. This 2-hour CE course for Registered Nurses (RNs) provides the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, report, and respond to suspected child abuse with confidence and compassion. Participants will gain an understanding of the different forms of abuse—including physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect—and how they present in clinical settings.

The course covers essential topics, including identifying risk factors and warning signs, understanding the short- and long-term impacts of abuse, and fulfilling legal and ethical responsibilities under mandatory reporting laws. Nurses will learn trauma-informed care approaches that prioritize the safety, dignity, and healing of affected children and families. The training also emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration and advocacy strategies to prevent abuse and create safer environments. This course fulfills state-mandated child abuse CE requirements for Registered Nurses in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and New York.

Educational Objectives

• Define child abuse and recognize its various forms and manifestations.
• Identify risk factors and warning signs of child abuse and neglect.
• Understand the physical, psychological, and social impacts of child abuse on children.
• Apply mandatory reporting requirements in compliance with state and federal laws.
• Deliver trauma-informed care to children and families affected by abuse.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
• Advocate for preventive measures and educate families on fostering safe environments for children.

Who Should Take This Course

This course is intended for:

• Registered Nurses in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and New York who need to fulfill mandatory child abuse CE requirements.
• Pediatric, school, emergency, and family practice nurses who interact with children regularly.
• Public health and home care nurses who provide care in community or family settings.
• Nurse leaders, educators, and advocates supporting child welfare and protection initiatives.

Did You Know?

• In 2022, over 588,000 victims of child abuse were reported in the U.S. [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services]
• Neglect is the most common form of child maltreatment, accounting for nearly 76% of substantiated cases. [Child Welfare Information Gateway]
• Healthcare providers are among the most trusted reporters of suspected child abuse. [CDC]
• Mandatory reporting laws vary by state but are legally binding for healthcare professionals. [National Children’s Alliance]
• Trauma-informed care improves patient engagement and recovery outcomes among children exposed to violence. [SAMHSA]