The nurse is examining a 3-year-old child. Which bruise, if found, would be of most concern?

Choice A reason: Bruises on the elbow are common in active children due to play or minor falls. They are typically not concerning unless accompanied by other suspicious signs. Abdominal bruising, however, is less common and may indicate trauma or abuse, making this less concerning. Choice B reason: Forehead bruises are frequent in toddlers learning to walk, often from bumping into objects. While concerning if severe, they are less alarming than abdominal bruising, which is less typical and may suggest internal injury or abuse, so this is not the most concerning. Choice C reason: Abdominal bruising in a 3-year-old is highly concerning, as it is uncommon in normal play and may indicate significant trauma, abuse, or internal injury. This location raises red flags for non-accidental injury, requiring urgent investigation, making it the most concerning bruise. Choice D reason: Lower leg bruises are common in active children from running or minor injuries. They are less concerning than abdominal bruising, which is atypical and may signal serious trauma or abuse, so this is not the most concerning finding in this context.