Physical abuse
Physical abuse includes hitting, burning, pushing or kicking someone, misuse of medication and restraint.
Possible indicators of physical abuse
- Any injury not fully explained by the history given
- Injuries inconsistent with the lifestyle of the adult
- Bruises and / or welts on face, lips, mouth, torso, arms, back, buttocks, thighs
- Clusters of injuries forming regular patterns or reflecting the shape of an article
- Burns, especially on soles, palms or back; from immersion in hot water, friction burns, rope or electric appliance burns
- Multiple fractures
- Lacerations or abrasions to mouth, lips, gums, eyes, external genitalia
- Marks on body, including slap marks, finger marks
- Injuries at different stages of healing
- Medication misuse (under or over-medicating)
- Inappropriate use of physical restraint
- Person showing signs of fear or emotional distress
- The adult who needs care and support telling you they have been hit, slapped or physically mistreated.