A nurse reports an incident of suspected child abuse. One of the parents of the child becomes upset and demands to know the reason for the nurse's action. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?

Reporting suspected child abuse involves legal and ethical obligations of healthcare professionals. Knowledge of mandatory reporting laws, professional responsibility, and communication techniques for maintaining a professional boundary while disclosing required actions to concerned or upset parents is essential for this response. Choice A rationale Nurses are mandated reporters under the law. Stating this legal requirement provides a factual, non-judgmental explanation for the action. It frames the report as a professional obligation rather than a personal accusation against the upset parents. Choice B rationale Referring only to hospital policy is insufficient and potentially misleading. While policies exist, the primary driver for reporting suspected abuse is state law. This response lacks the necessary emphasis on the broader legal and ethical mandates of nursing. Choice C rationale This statement is subjective and accusatory, which can escalate a volatile situation. Nurses are required to report suspicion rather than provide a definitive belief of guilt. This phrasing undermines the objective nature of the mandatory reporting process. Choice D rationale Deflecting the concern to the provider is inappropriate because the nurse has an independent legal responsibility to report. Avoiding the parents question does not address the nurses role or the legal necessity of the report that was filed.