12.3 PEDIATRIC MEDICINE UPDATE FOR THE CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIST: THE EVALUATION OF CHILDHOOD PHYSICAL ABUSE

Objectives: Childhood physical abuse is known to be underreported and often goes unrecognized. It is a public health problem that carries a lifetime cost per individual similar to Type II diabetes and stroke (CDC 2012). Children who are subject to physical abuse are more likely to develop CD, depression, and abuse drugs. There is evidence that physicians miss opportunities for identification and intervention; however research has shown early detection is key to preventing future injury. CAPs have a unique opportunity to identify and treat child physical abuse due to longer visit times, increased frequency of visits, and enhanced patient rapport. Methods: A thorough discussion of the evaluation for child physical abuse will be presented from both a pediatric and psychiatry perspective, including an outline of the AAP statement by Christian et al. 2015, and a review of the latest literature defining epidemiology, diagnosis, and best practices. Results: Participants will gain comfort in evaluating child physical abuse while ascertaining knowledge on the current prevalence, risk factors and relevant history, physical examination, and treatment options. Time will be spent outlining reporting guidelines, when to involve specialty care, and how to support the mental health needs of a child suffering from abuse. A discussion will be included on the psychiatric comorbidities associated with childhood physical abuse and preventative strategies pertinent to clinicians. Conclusions: This clinical perspective will provide pertinent information to CAPs on childhood physical abuse in order to best equip them with the knowledge and tools necessary for early identification, proper reporting, mobilization of resources, and treatment options in effort to reduce the overall burden of physical injury and chronic mental illness associated with this preventable public health issue.