Child Abuse Education Specifically for School Nurses

School nurses play a critical role in cases of suspected child abuse and that is why the
PA Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics developed a training program
created just for you. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, it’s
important to know your legal responsibility as a mandated reporter and to focus on the
clinical aspects of abuse and neglect. Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect for School
Nurses is a 3-hour program that meets requirements for Acts 31, 126, 48 and 58. The
course features a presentation team of a physician and county Children and Youth
worker with expertise in child abuse assessments. It covers legal definitions of abuse,
signs and symptoms, establishing a protocol, documentation and the value of teamwork
in recognizing and responding to suspected abuse. While many school personnel would
benefit from this training, it is only offered to school nurses and school health
practitioners.