Ace the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Challenge 2025 – Energize Your Nursing Future!

Fractures on the humerus in non-mobile children are a significant indicator of potential abuse because such injuries are not consistent with normal childhood activities. In infants and very young children who are not yet mobile, the development of a fracture—especially in the humerus, which is typically subjected to more forceful activity—raises concern.

When evaluating potential abuse, the context is crucial. In non-mobile children, there is a lack of mechanism for the humerus to be fractured through typical play or accidents, which makes these injuries suspicious. This contrasts with mobile children, where falls during normal play can more readily account for fractures.

Understanding the patterns of injury associated with child abuse helps healthcare professionals identify when further investigation is necessary. The humerus is less likely to be fractured by typical accidents in young children, which underscores the importance of recognizing these as potential indicators of abuse.