Photographing the physically abused child: principles and practice

Article Abstract:

Photographs can provide documentation of child abuse and facilitate court judgments of whether child abuse has occurred. Some states require that reasonable attempts to take color photographs of the injuries be made. Many institutions may have their own photographers, but many do not, nor do physicians in private practice. This article reviews important concepts and basic techniques with which physicians who care for abused children should be familiar. The advantages of different types of cameras and lenses are discussed, which need not be expensive. Lighting is the single most important consideration, as it can reveal or obscure details of bruises such as color, contours, and location. These and other aspects of lighting and film selection are described. Photographic composition is considered. Photographs should contain anatomic landmarks, and pictures should be taken from a variety of perspectives. Data about the photograph such as date, film type, light source should be recorded, and detailed descriptions of injuries should accompany photographs. Common photographic errors are discussed, as are particular aspects of photographing children. Legal issues such as verification of subject, photo labeling, minimizing handling by others, and immunity from prosecution are discussed. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Methods, Laws, regulations and rules, Testimony, Medical jurisprudence, Forensic medicine, Photography, Child abuse reporting

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Medical evaluation of abused and neglected children

Article Abstract:

A systematic evaluation has been developed to detect a variety of medical problems common to children who suffer abuse and neglect. Many of these problems are not readily identified by nonmedical professionals. An urban teaching hospital and a state child protective agency joined forces to create a more effective and complete method of medical evaluation of children who are referred for foster care. Problems typical of abuse and neglect were emphasized, but other medical problems were included in the screening test. Of 5,181 children who were evaluated, 44 percent had one or more medical problems. The most common problems included anemia, sexually transmitted diseases, and lead poisoning. This assessment also allowed for the documentation of additional instances of neglect and abuse. Once a problem was identified and appropriate treatment prescribed, provisions were made to inform the caretaker of the child's status so that proper care could be continued. The evaluation is helpful in ascertaining the severity and the patterns of physical abuse. This particular model includes interaction of child protective agencies, the medical community, and the courts and represents a concerted effort to improve intervention methods and treatment of abused and neglected children. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Medical examination, Abused children

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