A nurse working at a middle school suspects that a student is experiencing physical abuse after collecting data from the student. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

Choice A reason: Nurses are mandated reporters and must report suspected child abuse to Child Protective Services (CPS). CPS is the appropriate agency to investigate, ensure safety, and coordinate interventions. Reporting immediately fulfills the nurse’s legal and ethical responsibility to protect the child. Choice B reason: Calling the guardian risks alerting the potential abuser and may place the child in further danger. Confirmation by a pediatrician is not required before reporting; suspicion alone is sufficient to mandate reporting. Choice C reason: Alerting the school office to call parents is inappropriate because it may compromise the child’s safety. Parents may be the perpetrators, and contacting them before CPS involvement could escalate abuse or interfere with investigation. Choice D reason: While police may become involved, the nurse’s mandated reporting duty is to CPS, not directly to law enforcement. CPS coordinates with police when necessary, but the initial report must go to child protective authorities.