Any tips on how to approach the topic of abuse sensitively when talking to children or their parents?

Hi. I am not sure if you are a staff nurse and I don't know if you work in a medical center or a specialized clinic. However, most facilities/states have protocols to follow for suspected abuse. Before you start the topic of abuse usually it has to be suspected. Most protocols include contacting your supervisor, social worker and police. There are phone numbers for reporting abuse. There are special ways to document your findings and reporting them. These facts I have shared are appropriate for suspected abuse of children and adults. Please thread cautiously and legally with this.

Introduce a stuffed animal friend or action figure if available. Just like in some books. Use some creativity with the kiddos. For parents sometimes subtle distraction is enough to bring around a difficult topic like abuse. One subtle distraction I would use is my self, not to make the topic about myself. My point is this helps others feel comfortable enough to speak on things.