The nurse is caring for several patients on a pediatric unit. Which patient should the nurse be most concerned about possible abuse?

Choice A reason: A 15-year-old soccer player with a broken leg likely sustained the injury during sports, a common occurrence. Bruises on a 4-month-old’s arms are more concerning, as infants are non-mobile and less likely to bruise accidentally, suggesting possible abuse. Choice B reason: Bruises on a 4-month-old’s arms are highly concerning, as infants this age are not mobile and cannot self-injure. Such bruising may indicate non-accidental trauma or abuse, requiring immediate investigation, making this the most concerning patient for possible abuse. Choice C reason: An 8-year-old gymnast with a broken arm may have been injured during gymnastics, a plausible accident. A 4-month-old with arm bruises is more alarming, as infants are less likely to bruise without external force, so this is less concerning. Choice D reason: A 2-year-old with knee bruises is typical from active play or falls while learning to walk. Bruises on a non-mobile 4-month-old’s arms are more suspicious for abuse, making this less concerning than the infant’s situation.