Child Abuse and Neglect

The meaning of child neglect and abuse in the state of Connecticut is any injuries obtained that have no proof to have resulted from accidental events, cruel punishment, emotional maltreatment, deprivation of necessities, exploitation, sexual abuse, and malnutrition (Connecticut Judicial Branch, 2017). The role of the nurse in primary prevention of child abuse is to make sure the general community is adequately informed regarding child abuse, and therefore preventing it before it occurs (Eckenrode et al. In secondary prevention, the nurse can address specific groups of individuals thus avoiding the occurrence of child neglect and abuse. For instance, addressing parents that have a potential for abusing or neglecting their children. As for tertiary prevention strategies, a nurse can step in by referring parents that have already abused their children to address their issues such as mental health challenges, substance abuse or even depression.

The reporting of child abuse and neglect is made to the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. Children that are neglected are ordered by the Connecticut court to be removed from the abusive environment and placed in a more relaxing atmosphere such as a caring environment provided for by the commissioner of children and families. The multidisciplinary team for child abuse and neglect is inclusive of the child advocacy center, victim advocacy, mental health, medical departments, prosecution, child protective services and law enforcement (Connecticut Judicial Branch, 2017). When comparing the prevention of child abuse and neglection to spousal or elderly abuse, the reporting procedures are similar. The definitions of neglection and mistreatment for the three scenarios vary. Connecticut Judicial Branch. Child Abuse and Neglect in Connecticut.