Doctors’ Policy in Relation to PFM Evaluation of Inpatients

1. When informed of the child’s admission and presenting complaints, telephone the consultant under whom the child has been admitted.
2. Offer to provide a paediatric forensic medical opinion in relation to possible cause(s) of injury. Discuss SCAN process. If consultant does NOT wish the child to have a paediatric forensic medical evaluation – ignore the following points!
3. Conduct an evaluation of the child’s condition and the circumstances leading to their admission to hospital.
• review the unit record
• review any additional written information
• interview the carers – if available
• discuss with medical staff – are there any opinions expressed by other doctors that are NOT in the UR, - what investigations are planned? What are current plans for case management? Have Child Protection and police been informed of the child’s condition? SCAN meeting? What documentation has been given to Child Protection and police?
4. Examine the child.
5. Review the investigations and recommend additional tests if required.
6. Formulate an opinion.
7. Write a brief opinion in the UR. Legibly. Date and time. Sign and state position.
8. Write a report – to be printed within 24 hours of the consultation.
9. Place a copy of this report in the child’s UR.
10. Send a copy of the report to the Gen Med consultant. Child Protection and Police might request a copy of this report via the usual channels.