Which behavior would the nurse expect when approaching a toddler who was physically abused?

Which behavior would the nurse expect when approaching a toddler who was physically abused?

• A. Exhibiting fear of physical contact initiated by anyone
• B. Approaching with warmth and trust
• C. Playing normally without hesitation
• D. Laughing during initial contact

Answer: (A)

Touch can be a trigger for trauma in children who have suffered physical abuse. When safety around others hasn’t been established, a nurse approaching a toddler who was abused is most likely to see fear of physical contact from anyone. The child may recoil, cry, or cling to a caregiver, showing discomfort or avoidance at being touched or even approached. Warmth, normal playful interaction, or laughing during initial contact would not be expected right away because the child’s protective response is to fear or withdraw from touch until trust is slowly rebuilt. Responding with patient, nonthreatening behavior—giving the child control over contact, speaking softly, maintaining a respectful distance, and involving the caregiver—helps create a sense of safety and supports gradual comfort with touch.

Touch can be a trigger for trauma in children who have suffered physical abuse. When safety around others hasn’t been established, a nurse approaching a toddler who was abused is most likely to see fear of physical contact from anyone. The child may recoil, cry, or cling to a caregiver, showing discomfort or avoidance at being touched or even approached. Warmth, normal playful interaction, or laughing during initial contact would not be expected right away because the child’s protective response is to fear or withdraw from touch until trust is slowly rebuilt. Responding with patient, nonthreatening behavior—giving the child control over contact, speaking softly, maintaining a respectful distance, and involving the caregiver—helps create a sense of safety and supports gradual comfort with touch.