Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Who should be present when a Child Protective Investigator is assessing a child for injuries?

1. Only the child's parent

2. A witness who is 6 or older

3. Any medical professional available

4. A police officer assigned to the case

The correct answer is: A witness who is 6 or older

When a Child Protective Investigator is assessing a child for injuries, it is crucial to have an impartial witness present, particularly one who is mature enough to understand the situation—typically, a person six years or older meets this requirement. The presence of such a witness ensures that the assessment is conducted transparently and can provide credibility to the observations made during the investigation. This also protects the child's rights and ensures there is someone to corroborate what takes place during the investigation, which can be important for both the child’s safety and the integrity of the process. Having only the child's parent present may not provide a balanced perspective, especially if the parent is a potential suspect in the case. Medical professionals could assist in diagnosing injuries but may not be required to be present during the initial assessment process specifically aimed at investigating potential abuse. The involvement of a police officer can be important for legal matters, but their presence is not strictly necessary for the assessment of injuries by a child protective investigator.