Abuse
Abuse, defined as any intentional harms or injures acted upon another person. Someone who purposely
harm another individual is committing abuse. There are many types/kind of abuse encountered by a
person includes:
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Physical
Psychological
Rape
Sexual assault
Verbal
Elder
Financial
Spiritual
Emotional
Abuse is commonly committed by a person or individual that has an intimate or close relationship with
the victim. When an abuse is done by a partner, it is known as an Intimate partner abuse while when
done within the family is called Domestic abuse.
Risk Factors for Abuse:
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History of being abused or being neglected during childhood.
Physical or mental illness
Stress
Family Crisis
Financial Stress
Social or Family Isolation
Parenting skills
Substance Abuse
Symptoms:
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Withdrawal from friends or usual activities
Changes in behavior — such as aggression, anger, hostility or hyperactivity — or changes in
school performance
Depression, anxiety or unusual fears, or a sudden loss of self-confidence
Sleep problems and nightmares
An apparent lack of supervision
Frequent absences from school
Rebellious or defiant behavior
Self-harm or attempts at suicide
Physical abuse signs and symptoms
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Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, broken bones (fractures) or burns
Injuries that don't match the given explanation
Injuries that aren't compatible with the child's developmental ability
Diagnosis and Treatment
Identifying abuse is difficult. These are the factors in determining abuse:
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Physical exam
Lab tests, X-rays and other diagnostic tests
Medical Histories
Observation to people surrounding the victim
Talking when possible and ensure safety of the victim
If necessary, help victim in seeking appropriate medical care treatment. If the victim has signs of physical
injury or changes in LOC, follow-up to a physian ASAP.
Psychotherapy is one of the most important treatment for an abused victim. Talking to a mental health
professional can help:
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Victims to trust another individual again
Healthy behavior and relationships
Conflict management and boost self-esteem.
Nursing Management and Responsibilities
Assess the following:
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Physical abuse signs and symptoms
Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, broken bones (fractures) or burns
Injuries that don't match the given explanation
Injuries that aren't compatible with the child's developmental ability
Assess the patient as soon as possible after the incident and provide immediate care for any
physical injuries.
Clearly identify and count injuries.
Take measurements, pictures, and full descriptions in the patient's record.
Interview the patient and caretaker separately. This can help identify story inconsistency as well.
References:
Tracy, N. (2021, December 17). What Is Abuse? Abuse Definition, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2023,
December 8 from https://www.healthyplace.com/abuse/abuse-information/what-is-abuseabuse-definition