An infant seen with a fracture; what is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Assess for child abuse; fractures in infants are often non-accidental
• B. Administer analgesics
• C. Immobilize limb
• D. Obtain X-ray imaging

Answer: (A)

When an infant presents with a fracture, the most important concern is the possibility of non-accidental trauma. Infants can’t explain how injuries occurred, and fractures in this age group can signal abuse. The nurse’s priority is to assess for signs of abuse and to ensure the child’s safety, including reporting suspicions to child protective services as required by law. Pain relief and immobilization are important parts of care, and imaging helps with diagnosis, but they should not take precedence over safeguarding the child and initiating appropriate reporting.