322 - Child Abuse

What is the purpose of the Child Abuse Policy?

Who should be notified when suspected child abuse is reported?

What should emergency medical services members do when they suspect a child is being abused or neglected?

What is included in the definition of abuse and neglect?

When should notification of suspected child abuse occur?

What information should be included in a report of suspected child abuse?

What are the consequences of failing to report an incident of known or reasonably suspected child abuse or neglect?

What should be done with a written report of suspected child abuse?

How are reports of child abuse handled in terms of confidentiality?

What contact numbers are provided for requesting assistance with suspected child abuse?

The purpose of the policy is to provide guidelines for reporting suspected child abuse.
It is the policy of the Chesapeake Fire Department to ensure the local social services department's Child Protective Services (CPS) is notified of suspected child abuse as required by law.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) members shall notify CPS when they suspect a child is being abused or neglected.
Abuse and neglect include intentional acts or omissions by caretakers that cause physical or mental injury, create a substantial risk of death or impairment, or fail to provide adequate care.
Notification should occur immediately, but no later than 24 hours after becoming aware of the abuse or neglect.
The report should include information about the child, suspected abuser, nature and extent of abuse or neglect, and any other pertinent information.
Failure to report an incident of known or reasonably suspected child abuse or neglect may result in fines or discipline.
A written report shall be prepared and, if requested, forwarded to law enforcement or CPS.
Reports of child abuse are confidential and will only be released in accordance with the Release of Records Policy.
Contact numbers for requesting assistance from Child Protective Services and the Virginia Child Abuse Hotline are provided.

Test your knowledge on reporting suspected child abuse with this informative quiz. Get familiar with the guidelines for notifying Child Protective Services, identifying signs of abuse and neglect, and the consequences of failing to report. This quiz will also cover the necessary information required in a report and the confidentiality of such reports. Keywords: child abuse, Child Protective Services, reporting, neglect, emergency medical services.