The nurse is assisting with a physical exam on a child who has been admitted with a diagnosis of possible child abuse (child maltreatment). Which finding might alert the nurse to this possibility that the child may have been abused?

Choice A reason: A fractured bone can occur from accidents or abuse, but alone, it is not specific to maltreatment without inconsistent history or pattern. An untreated burn is more suggestive of neglect or abuse, as it indicates failure to seek care, making this less definitive and incorrect compared to a clear neglect indicator. Choice B reason: Hyperactivity and anger are behavioral responses that may occur in abused children but are nonspecific and common in other conditions. An untreated burn is a clearer physical sign of potential neglect or abuse, making this behavioral finding less indicative and incorrect for alerting to possible child maltreatment. Choice C reason: Bruises on knees and elbows are typical in active children from play, not necessarily indicative of abuse. An untreated burn raises stronger suspicion of neglect or intentional injury, making this common finding less concerning and incorrect for identifying potential child maltreatment in a clinical setting. Choice D reason: An untreated burn is highly suggestive of child abuse or neglect, as it indicates failure to seek medical care for a serious injury. This finding, especially if unexplained or inconsistent with history, aligns with child maltreatment indicators, making it the most alerting sign for the nurse to investigate further.