For child abuse, the written report must be submitted within which time frame?

• A. within 8 hours
• B. within 24 hours
• C. within 36 hours
• D. within 72 hours

Answer: (C)

Mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse requires acting quickly and submitting a written report within a set window. The 36-hour deadline is the standard used in many EMS study contexts, chosen to ensure the situation is reported promptly so protective action can begin, while still giving you enough time to document what you observed accurately. When you encounter suspected abuse, report immediately to the appropriate authority or supervisor, then complete the written report with objective observations—injuries, statements, and relevant behavior—and your actions. Don’t delay reporting while you search for more details; timely documentation helps protect the child and supports the investigation. Note that exact deadlines can vary by jurisdiction, but 36 hours is the commonly tested period.