As an EMR, you are mandated to report if you suspect or know that child abuse has occurred.

• A. It depends on local laws
• B. Not applicable
• C. True
• D. False

Answer: (C)

Mandatory reporting is the obligation to report suspected or known child abuse to the proper authorities. As an EMR, you are legally required to report this immediately because protecting children takes priority and abuse can often go undisclosed without someone acting. If you notice signs or receive statements that raise concern, you should report promptly and document everything you observed, including injuries, behavioral signs, and any statements from the patient or caregivers. Then follow your agency’s reporting protocol and your local laws, which may specify which agencies to contact and how to document the report. This duty isn’t optional, and while the exact steps can vary by location, the expectation for EMRs to report suspected abuse is the standard practice.