A 7-year-old patient presents with his mother, who does not speak English. The child has bruises on his legs and a black eye. What should the dentist do?

Correct answer: A. Report to child protective services

• A. Correct. Multiple bruises in various stages and a black eye in a young child are classic signs of potential physical abuse. Dentists are mandatory reporters — suspected child abuse MUST be reported to child protective services (CPS) immediately, regardless of language barriers.
• B. Asking the dental assistant to translate does not fulfill the mandatory reporting obligation.
• C. Documenting and waiting is inappropriate — suspected child abuse requires immediate mandatory reporting.
• D. Asking the child to explain in a setting where abuse may be occurring can re-traumatize the child and alert potential abusers.