Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Where on the body is it most likely for a child to sustain bruises?

1. Upper arms

2. Abdomen

3. Face

4. Legs

The correct answer is: Abdomen

The abdomen is not typically where children most often sustain bruises during normal play and daily activities. In children, bruises usually occur in areas that are commonly exposed during play or are more susceptible to impact. For instance, the legs are a frequent site for bruising due to the high level of activity children engage in, such as running, jumping, and climbing. The upper arms can also sustain bruises, particularly if a child falls or bumps into objects. The face may get some bruises as well, especially from falls or accidents, particularly in younger children. However, bruising in the abdominal area may be more indicative of potential abuse or trauma, as it is typically not a common area for injuries resulting from normal childhood activities. Understanding these patterns is vital for identifying situations that may warrant further investigation in the context of child protection. The answer choice about the abdomen suggests a misunderstanding of typical injury patterns among children and how to recognize potentially concerning bruising locations.