Abused or neglected children may need immediate intervention to protect them from further severe maltreatment or to ensure proper treatment of injuries. All areas of the United States are covered by hotlines that provide around-the-clock telephone screening of potential child abuse emergencies. These phone services are usually operated by, or have a direct link with, local child protection agencies and law enforcement authorities.

Assessment of danger to the child is the first and perhaps the most important step in the screening and investigatory process.

If the child is determined to be in immediate physical or emotional danger several alternatives are available. Parent aides or homemaker services may be called to assist the family and ensure proper treatment of the child. The abusing adult may be voluntarily or involuntarily removed from home. When abuse is discovered in a hospital emergency room, the child may be placed on hospital hold for his or her protection.

Removing a child from home is usually the least preferable of emergency interventions. Emergency removal may place additional strain on a child who has already suffered severe emotional trauma. Children often find it difficult to adjust to abrupt changes brought on by out-of-home placement. Emergency placement further disrupts families and may reduce parents' willingness to cooperate with subsequent efforts to protect the child. When emergency removal of a child is necessary, trauma to the child and family may be reduced by placing the child with a friend or relative. Placement in an emergency shelter or foster home is considered only if no suitable alternatives are available.

Most developed countries make legal provisions for placing children in protective custody. In the United States, children may be removed from parents' custody by court order or, in an emergency, by state authority. Many states allow police to take a child into protective custody without prior court approval. When children are removed without a court order, a hearing must be held to review the decision. Court supervision of protective custody focuses on rights of the child, parents and the state.

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