Physical abuse

Physical abuse includes hitting, burning, pushing or kicking someone, misuse of medication and restraint.

Possible indicators of physical abuse

• Any injury not fully explained by the history given.
• Injuries inconsistent with the lifestyle of the adult.
• Bruises and / or welts on face, lips, mouth, torso, arms, back, buttocks, thighs.
• Clusters of injuries forming regular patterns or reflecting the shape of an article.
• Burns, especially on soles, palms or back; from immersion in hot water, friction burns, rope or electric appliance burns.
• Multiple fractures.
• Lacerations or abrasions to mouth, lips, gums, eyes, external genitalia.
• Marks on body, including slap marks, finger marks.
• Injuries at different stages of healing.
• Medication misuse (under or over-medicating).
• Inappropriate use of physical restraint.
• Person showing signs of fear or emotional distress
• The adult who needs care and support telling you they have been hit, slapped or physically mistreated.