Forensic medicine part Ii
Schaaf, H.S.
Sadj Journal of the South African Dental Association 59(10): 425-426
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 1029-4864 PMID: 15696737 Document Number: 580308
The role of the doctor is to: (see also: Child abuse: management of physical abuse) 1. Take a full medical history without detail about the CSA (role of social worker/police). 2. do a complete physical examination of the child. 3. collect medico-legal evidence using a crime kit if abuse is recent (<72 hours). 4. Do further investigations, e.g. special investigations for physical abuse, pregnancy test if pubertal, and syphilis and HIV serology. 5. Explain the findings to parent(s) and the child if the latter is old enough. 6. Mobilise the child abuse management team. 7. Write detailed notes, necessary reports and complete J88 form if requested. 8. Ensure the safety of the child. 9. Give treatment and prophylaxis as clinically indicated. 10. Arrange referral(s) and follow-up appointments.