Details
| Developer | TPSC |
| Released | November 15, 2011 |
| Type | Hospital |
| Language | English |
| Department | Children’s department, Client services, Risk Managers, Patient Safety Officers, Medical Directors, Head of Nursing. |
| Support | |
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The Patient Safety Company +31 (0)72 - 8200 400 customerservice@patientsafety.com |
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Child Abuse
Healthcare workers carry an obligation to initiate action if the suspicion of child abuse occurs. The action must determine if there is a case of child abuse. If so, the app 'Child Abuse' will help to determine causes, initiate (immediate) appropriate action, monitor and communicate. These issues and steps are mostly predefined and coupled to best practice methods for reducing harm, preventing further harm and involving the right caretakers.
More details about the Child Abuse app
Problem definition
In many countries the reporting of (suspicion of) child abuse is mandatory. Because of the possible impact and seriousness of the topic a structured approach is needed. However, in many instances, myths are preventing a sustainable approach. 'I don’t want to interfere in someone else’s family', 'What if I break up someone’s home?', 'They will know it was me who called' are some of these myths. What if everybody stays reluctant?.
Course of solution
The app makes it easy to report, while the workflow ensures caution. Based on well-known signals the process will care for the best way to handle things for all involved.
Phase 1 – Signaling and registration
In case of clear warning signs for child abuse, the healthcare worker fills in the predefined form to report a suspicion. Specific questions are being asked about the nature of the abuse, the condition of the child, detailes on the behaviour, etc.
Phase 2 – Consulting
As a direct and automated next step of phase one, a must take step in handling could be the consulting of a peer, specialist or government agency.
Phase 3 - Actions being taken
Depending on the answers on the several questions regarding the suspicion and/or the suspected child abuse, several courses of action will be (automatically) carried out. Things considered here are communications with different parties, notifying authorities or, most important, care taking actions for the well being of the child.
Solution
By using the 'Child Abuse' app, you will implement a tool that 'forces' your organization to take action by any suspicion of child abuse and harm. At the same time, it is save for all parties involved and will lead to significant increase in (quality of) care given, actions taken, harm prevented and lessons learned.
The app is based on a scientifically designed action plan and workflow and includes pointers on warning signs, specific measures and treatment to set in place and monitoring the well-being of the child.
Support for the Child Abuse app
General support
Initial deployment, configuration and training can be provided onsite or by webinar.
Implementation support
After initial deployment, consultancy, configuration and training can be provided onsite or by webinar.
It is possible to obtain long term maintenance or help desk support to this app.