Articles related to CHILD ABUSE

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the critical shortcomings in child protection services as revealed by recent investigations, highlighting the systemic failure to act on substantial abuse allegations, with devastating consequences.

In light of the ongoing legal challenges faced by Lehigh Valley Health Network over alleged misdiagnoses of medical child abuse, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to rigorously assess their diagnostic approaches, ensuring that they are grounded in evidence and free from bias.

Implementing trauma-informed care (TIC) in dental clinics can greatly improve the patient experience and health outcomes. When patients have been exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), it increases their risk of long-term health issues. By acknowledging these experiences, we can engage patients better and avoid re-traumatizing them. ACEs are closely linked to poor dental health, with higher rates of tooth loss and the need for restorations. Surprisingly, TIC is not routinely taught in undergraduate education. TIC involves understanding trauma signs, integrating knowledge into the dental practice, and focusing on safety, trust, support, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural considerations. To implement TIC, create a soothing environment, validate patient concerns, give them control, explain procedures, and obtain consent. Pre-screening for trauma history and training staff to recognize and de-escalate re-traumatization are crucial. Dental professionals can promote a culture of awareness, understanding, and action by prioritizing empathy, understanding patient beliefs, and providing compassionate care. It’s important to assume all patients may have experienced adverse events and apply trauma-informed care as standard practice. By doing so, we improve our patients’ oral health-related quality of life.

In comparing PTSD to PTSD plus sexual abuse, minors with PTSD following sexual abuse are more likely to suffer MDD, substance use disorder, and suicidal behavior.

A fascinating case with “Ms. D,” a licensed registered nurse who, as as part of her job, was assigned to work with “Dr. K,” a pediatric neurologist. One of the patients they cared for was a middle-school aged child who suffered from seizures. Learn more details of the case and what happened after Ms. D found out the divorced parents had two different neurologists prescribing two different medications.