Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Which organ is recognized as the most commonly injured in child abuse cases?

1. The heart

2. The kidney

3. The liver

4. The spleen

The correct answer is: The liver

In the context of child abuse, the liver is recognized as the most commonly injured organ. This is largely due to its size and location within the abdominal cavity, which makes it susceptible to blunt force trauma, a common type of injury resulting from physical abuse. The liver's vascular nature also means that injuries can lead to significant internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening. In cases of child abuse, the liver is frequently examined for signs of trauma during medical evaluations, especially when other signs of physical abuse are present. Understanding the prevalence of liver injuries in these cases is critical for medical professionals and investigators to assess potential abuse accurately and ensure the safety and well-being of the child involved.