In a suspected case of sexual abuse, what is the best action for a nurse practitioner to take?

In suspected cases of sexual abuse, the most appropriate action for a nurse practitioner is to suggest that the mother report her suspicion legally. This approach aligns with mandatory reporting laws, which require healthcare providers to report any suspected cases of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities, such as child protective services or law enforcement. Reporting is essential for the protection of the child and allows trained professionals to investigate the situation further and provide necessary interventions.

Taking such action ensures that the child's safety and well-being are prioritized. It sets in motion a protective framework where professionals can assess the situation in depth, support the child, and potentially hold the perpetrator accountable. Additionally, reporting does not place the responsibility for investigation on the family, which may lack the resources or knowledge to handle such a sensitive situation effectively.

The other actions, while appearing to take caution, do not adequately ensure the child's safety or fulfill the legal and ethical responsibilities that healthcare providers have when they suspect abuse. Engaging the mother in questioning about her boyfriend or advising her to observe interactions might inadvertently put the child at greater risk by not addressing the potential immediate danger. Discussing the patient’s symptoms with the boyfriend can also create an unsafe situation for the child and compromise any legal investigations that may need to take place.