Which type of injuries are rare outside of abuse and may be an early warning sign of abuse?

• A. Major fractures
• B. Sentinel injuries
• C. Internal organ lacerations
• D. Brain injuries

Answer: (B)

Sentinel injuries are minor injuries that are unusual for non-abused children, especially in infants who cannot explain what happened, and they can serve as early warning signs of abuse. Because these small injuries often precede more serious harm, recognizing them prompts clinicians and investigators to assess for ongoing abuse and ensure the child’s safety. Larger, more dramatic injuries like major fractures, internal organ lacerations, or brain injuries can occur from accidents as well, but they are not typically considered the early warning signs that point specifically to abuse. Sentinel injuries, by contrast, are the injuries that raise suspicion early and indicate the need for further evaluation and protective action.