Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Bruises on the back, chest, and face are considered significant indicators of potential child abuse due to their locations. Unlike typical injuries that a child might sustain from falls or normal play, bruising in these areas can be indicative of non-accidental trauma. For instance, bruises on the back and chest could suggest that the child was struck or held forcefully, while facial bruising often signals a possible attempt to conceal violence. Since these areas are generally covered by clothing, they may also suggest the child is being hurt in ways that are not easily visible to caregivers or guardians.

In contrast, bruises on the legs and forearms may result from normal playground activities, where falls and bumps are common. Bruises on the scalp, although they can be serious, may also occur from falls or everyday accidents. Lastly, bruises on the palms and soles can occur during active play or exploration and do not typically suggest abuse. Therefore, the presence of bruises in more concealed areas, like the back, chest, and face, raises more suspicion for potential abuse compared to other locations on the body.