Medical Neglect of Children: Reporting Issues for Nurse Practitioners

Neglect is the most commonly reported form of child maltreatment, yet the reports raise difficult issues for advanced practice nurses. While federal law defines child neglect and sets minimum guidelines, advanced practice nurses are bound by their state laws, where specific definitions vary and reporting standards involving imminent harm to the child may be difficult to interpret. Ethical issues around reporting of medical neglect and the unintended consequences of intervention to protect vulnerable children are explored using a case study of one seriously ill toddler. A framework for approaching medical neglect is discussed.