Addressing Suspected Child Abuse in a Pediatric Patient

A nurse in a pediatric unit is caring for a 10-year-old girl who has been admitted with multiple bruises in various stages of healing. During the nurse’s assessment, the girl appears withdrawn and avoids eye contact. When asked about her injuries, she hesitates and states that she is just clumsy and falls often. The nurse suspects possible abuse. According to the nurse practice standards, which of the following actions should the nurse take as a priority to address the potential abuse?