Which of the following is an example of a reportable situation under the policy?

• A. A child sustains an accidental injury.
• B. A child is verbally scolded.
• C. A child suffers a physical injury due to non-accidental means.
• D. A child misses a meal.

Answer: (C)

When a policy is asking what requires reporting, the focus is on recognizing signs of physical abuse. A non-accidental physical injury means the harm isn’t easily explained by an accident and suggests deliberate harm or neglect. That is exactly the kind of situation mandated reporters must report to the appropriate authorities to ensure the child’s safety.

An accidental injury is explainable by an incident that could happen without abuse, so it doesn’t by itself trigger a report. Verbal scolding, unless it escalates into emotional abuse or threats, typically isn’t considered a reportable abuse case. A single missed meal might raise concerns about neglect only if it reflects a persistent pattern or a failure to meet basic needs; one isolated instance usually isn’t enough to classify as reportable.

So, the scenario involving a physical injury that is not due to an accident best fits what must be reported under the policy.