Certified Case Manager Practice Test

Which of the following indicates a case of child abuse that must be referred to child protection services?

1. There are stocking or glove marks on feet and hands

2. The child exhibits difficulty in walking

3. The child often misses school

4. The parent shows signs of stress

The correct answer is: There are stocking or glove marks on feet and hands

The presence of stocking or glove marks on a child's feet and hands is a specific indicator of potential child abuse, particularly in cases of physical abuse. These markings are often associated with a pattern of injury that suggests the child may have been subjected to restraint or other forms of abusive actions that can lead to bruising or pressure marks in these areas. This type of evidence is critical because it can provide concrete visual signs that something may be wrong, warranting immediate attention from child protection services. In contrast, the other options, while they could raise concerns, do not provide the same level of urgency or specific indication of abuse. Difficulty in walking might suggest injury or developmental issues, but does not inherently point towards abuse without additional context. Frequent school absences could be related to a variety of factors, such as illness or family circumstances, and do not directly indicate abuse. Finally, while parental stress may affect a child's well-being, it does not itself imply that the child is being abused. Therefore, the specific nature of the injuries described in the correct choice clearly highlights a situation that necessitates intervention from child protection services.