If you reasonably suspect abuse, which action is appropriate regarding contacting authorities?

• A. Delay reporting until you have proof.
• B. Ignore the suspicion.
• C. Report orally to a supervisor and wait for instructions.
• D. You may call a child protective agency for guidance but must still report if you reasonably suspect abuse.

Answer: (D)

When there's a reasonable suspicion of abuse, the immediate priority is to act to protect the child and comply with mandatory reporting requirements. You may call a child protective agency to discuss the situation and seek guidance, but you must still file a formal report if you reasonably suspect abuse. Proof isn’t needed to trigger a report—the law recognizes reasonable suspicion as a basis to act quickly to safeguard the child. Waiting for proof or delaying the report can allow harm to continue and may create legal or professional risk for you. Relying only on a supervisor’s instructions can also delay the necessary protective action, so you should initiate the report with the appropriate agency, then follow any district procedures for documenting the contact and outcome.