NCLEX RN Practice Question

The correct answer is to report any suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities because healthcare providers are mandated reporters. Mandated reporting laws require that healthcare professionals report cases of suspected child abuse to protect the client from harm and ensure they receive necessary interventions. It is not within the nurse's scope of practice to investigate or confirm abuse, as this is the responsibility of child protective services or law enforcement. Documenting observations and notifying the healthcare provider are essential but do not fulfill the legal duty to report.