A nurse is assessing a child and notes several bruises. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale: A. Obtaining a detailed history is important but does not replace the legal obligation to report suspected abuse. B. Separating the child from the parents is not the nurse’s first action and could be unsafe without proper authorities involved. C. Consulting a psychiatrist may be part of the evaluation process later, but it is not the immediate required action. D. Nurses are mandated reporters; any suspicion of child abuse must be reported to the appropriate child protective services or authorities immediately to ensure the child’s safety.