A 5-year-old patient shows you a bruise on their stomach during an examination. The parent reacts aggressively and becomes hostile when you inquire about the injury. What is the most appropriate action?

Dentists are mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse in all U.S. states. The combination of an unexplained bruise on the abdomen (an uncommon site for accidental injury in a 5-year-old), the parent's aggressive/hostile response to questioning (a red flag behavior), and the child's disclosure constitutes reasonable suspicion of abuse. Mandatory reporters must report promptly without waiting for certainty. Documentation should occur simultaneously, but it should not delay the report. Reporting is not optional — failure to report is a criminal offense in most jurisdictions. The child's safety is the immediate priority.