Recognizing the Signs: Protecting Children Through Early Intervention with Andrea Sebastian, Part One
April 8, 2026
In this episode of Voices from the Nursing Frontline, Dr. Lisa Beasley speaks with Dr. Andrea Sebastian, a pediatric child abuse nurse practitioner, in recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The discussion focuses on the critical role healthcare providers play in identifying early signs of child maltreatment. Dr. Sebastian highlights the importance of recognizing “sentinel injuries,” such as bruising in non-mobile children, and introduces a mnemonic to help clinicians identify concerning patterns.
The episode also explores abusive head trauma as a leading cause of death in child abuse cases, emphasizing subtle and often-missed symptoms like vomiting, irritability, and lethargy. Dr. Sebastian reinforces that providers are not responsible for proving abuse but are mandated to report reasonable suspicion, prioritizing child safety above all.
Listeners will gain practical guidance on documentation, communication with caregivers, and when to escalate care or seek consultation. The episode closes with a reminder that child abuse prevention is a shared community responsibility, and early recognition can save lives.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and this episode focuses on equipping healthcare providers with the knowledge and confidence to recognize early signs of child maltreatment. Dr. Andrea Sebastian shares her expertise in identifying concerning injuries, understanding risk factors, and taking appropriate action to protect vulnerable children.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why early recognition of abuse is critical in preventing severe injury or death
- What “sentinel injuries” are and why they matter
- How to use a mnemonic in clinical practice
- Key differences between accidental and non-accidental injuries
- Commonly missed symptoms of abusive head trauma
- Best practices for documentation and reporting
- How to approach caregivers with professionalism and neutrality
- The importance of multidisciplinary collaboration
Key Takeaways:
- Healthcare providers are often the first line of defense in identifying abuse
- You are not responsible for proving abuse—only reporting reasonable suspicion
- Bruising in non-mobile children should always raise concern
- Early intervention can prevent escalation and save lives
- Child abuse prevention is a shared responsibility across healthcare and the community
- Resources & Support:
- Partner with local children’s hospitals or child advocacy teams
- Utilize multidisciplinary teams (CPS, law enforcement, social workers)
- Follow state laws regarding mandatory reporting
- Coming Next:
Stay tuned for Part 2 of this important conversation with Dr. Andrea Sebastian.