Safeguarding children — MCQs

10 questions
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Q1

A 17-month-old boy presents to the emergency department with burns to both feet. The mother reports he climbed into the bath while she was answering the door and sustained the burns. The burns are symmetric, circumferential, with a clear demarcation line at the ankles, sparing the soles. There are no splash marks. The child appears frightened and clings to the mother. What is the most appropriate interpretation of these burn characteristics?

Q2

A multi-agency safeguarding conference discusses a 9-year-old girl living with her mother and mother's partner. The girl disclosed sexual abuse by the partner to her teacher. Medical examination findings are non-specific. The mother initially did not believe the disclosure but now states she will protect her child. The partner denies allegations and remains in the home. Social care recommends the child's name be placed on a child protection plan. What is the strongest evidence-based factor that should most heavily influence the decision about immediate safety?

Q3

A paediatric team reviews three infants with head circumference concerns. Infant A (4 months): head circumference crossing from 50th to 91st centile with bulging fontanelle and vomiting. Infant B (6 months): head circumference consistently on 98th centile since birth, father has large head. Infant C (5 months): head circumference crossing from 75th to 25th centile with developmental regression. Which infant requires the most urgent neuroimaging?

Q4

A 7-year-old boy is brought to the GP by his grandmother who recently gained custody. She reports he was living in poor conditions with his mother, who has substance misuse problems. The boy frequently wets the bed, hoards food in his room, is reluctant to be left alone, and has angry outbursts. Growth is on the 2nd centile for height and weight; he was on the 50th centile at age 2. Which aspect of this presentation is most concerning for long-term neurodevelopmental impact?

Q5

A 36-month-old girl is assessed in the developmental clinic. She speaks in 3-4 word sentences, can pedal a tricycle, builds a tower of 9 cubes, and can copy a circle. She cannot yet hop on one foot or copy a cross. She feeds herself with a spoon and fork but cannot yet use a knife. Which statement best describes her development?

Q6

A 11-month-old infant is brought to the emergency department by her father with a swollen right thigh. He reports she was crawling and suddenly started crying. X-ray reveals a spiral fracture of the right femur. The infant is pre-mobile and not yet pulling to stand. There is no history of trauma. On examination, there are no other injuries. What is the single most important next step?

Q7

A 8-year-old boy is referred to the community paediatrician because his height has dropped from the 50th centile at age 4 years to the 9th centile at age 8 years. He has gained weight appropriately (50th centile). His teacher reports he has been tired at school. Examination reveals mild pallor and a soft goitre. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Q8

A 5-year-old girl presents to the emergency department with her mother reporting a fall down three stairs resulting in a fractured clavicle. On examination, there are multiple bruises in various stages of healing on her upper arms, back, and buttocks. The mother explains these are from 'normal play'. The child appears withdrawn and makes little eye contact. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Q9

A 25-month-old boy is brought to the GP by his mother with concerns about speech development. He uses approximately 15 single words and no two-word combinations. He follows simple commands, points to body parts, and engages in pretend play. Hearing assessment is normal. What is the most appropriate next step?

Q10

A safeguarding team discusses the legal framework for child protection. Following a strategy discussion where significant harm is suspected, which statutory assessment must be completed within 45 working days under the Children Act 1989?

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Safeguarding children MCQs | Growth, Development & Safeguarding Questions - OnCourse