Several children are seen in the emergency department for treatment of illnesses and injuries. Which finding would create a high index of suspicion for child abuse? The child who has:

A) repeated middle ear infections.
B) severe colic.
C) bite marks.
D) croup.

Index of Suspicion

The level of awareness or anticipation healthcare providers have regarding the potential presence of a specific disease or condition in a patient.

Child Abuse

Any action by another person – adult or child – that causes significant harm to a child, including physical, sexual, emotional harm, or neglect.

Bite Marks

Evidence of being bitten, often identifiable on the skin and can be used forensically to identify attackers in certain cases.