An emergency room nurse is assessing a toddler with multiple bruises and burns in various stages of healing. The nurse suspects that the toddler has been abused, however the physician disagrees. What is the nurse's priority at this time?

A. It is inappropriate to dismiss suspicions of abuse based on the assumption that toddlers frequently fall and have multiple injuries. B. The nurse has a legal and ethical obligation to report suspicions of child abuse to the proper authorities, regardless of the physician's opinion. Reporting ensures that the child’s safety is prioritized and that an investigation can be conducted. C. While discussing findings with the physician can be part of the process, it does not take precedence over the mandatory reporting of suspected abuse. D. Confronting the caregivers directly is not appropriate and may put the child at further risk.