As educators as well as clinicians, we recognized the scarcity of specific books designed to address the needs of the resident trainee in this important area of pediatric practice. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and others have published a number of guidelines, pocket materials and more definitive reference texts as well as general texts for child abuse; however, this book specifically addresses the need for easily accessible materials outlining the medical approach to child abuse and neglect for pediatric and family medicine trainees as well as other professionals working with children. It is a collection of materials which covers a range of topics and serves as a repository for materials we have found helpful when teaching about child abuse and neglect. In addition, it provides information for more advanced students and trainees who want to learn more than can be learned during standard rotations and clinical experiences. Child abuse identification, treatment and prevention is the responsibility of us all, and our hope is that all practitioners will recognize their responsibility to use their unique skills to provide the best care and treatment possible for this important and vulnerable pediatric population.
