Pandemic Pressures: Child Abuse Risks

Child abuse is unfortunately very common, and in the setting of a pandemic like COVID-19, the risk is elevated. Cindy Christian, MD, talks about the factors that increase the risk for abuse during a pandemic, such as heightened stressors facing families and the fact that children are not visible to those who often recognize and report abuse, like teachers and pediatricians. She also discusses what pediatricians can do to identify possible signs of abuse and neglect, specific injuries that warrant closer evaluation, recommendations for documentation and reporting, and more. Published April 2020. This podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not to be considered as medical advice for any particular patient. Clinicians must rely on their own informed clinical judgment in making recommendations to their patients. ©2020 by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, all rights reserved.