Child Abuse and Neglect

Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if you see a child being abused or believe a child is in immediate danger, or you see that a child:

• Is not breathing. The 911 operator can guide you through Reference CPR Opens New Window until help arrives.
• Is having trouble breathing.
• Is bleeding heavily.
• Has a changed Reference level of consciousness Opens New Window.
• Is in Reference shock Opens New Window.
• Shows symptoms of a Reference head injury Opens New Window after being Reference shaken Opens New Window.
• Has signs of Reference severe dehydration Opens New Window.

Call police or child protective services immediately if you:

• Suspect an injury was caused by abuse.
• Suspect that abuse or neglect is placing a child's health at risk.
• Suspect that a child has seen or heard domestic violence within his or her family.
• Are worried that you or your spouse or partner may lose control and hurt your child.

If the child is not in immediate danger, call your local child protective services or police if:

• A child tells you about being abused or neglected.
• You notice possible Reference physical abuse injuries.
• You see Reference signs of sexual abuse.
• You notice Reference signs of neglect.

Childhelp, a nonprofit agency, provides telephone numbers and information about how to report suspected or observed child abuse or neglect. The national Child Abuse hotline number is 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453). The U.S. Administration of Children and Families, under the Department of Health and Human Services, has established a Children's Bureau that supports the states in the delivery of child welfare services designed to protect children and strengthen families.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.