PHYSICIAN KNOWLEDGE OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

This study was undertaken to describe the knowledge about child sexual abuse, and factors that affect the knowledge of a statewide sample of physicians. A survey of physicians (n = 113) participating in a state wide program for child abuse evaluations was made in Summer 1993, with 788 participation. Knowledge scores were derived from the survey base d on comparison to the responses of a panel of five experts. Several a reas of inadequate knowledge were found including assessment of chlamy dia infection, Tanner staging, and documentation of historical and phy sical exam findings. Factors associated with better knowledge scores w ere physician participation in continuing medical education and specia lization in pediatrics. In addition, variations in presentation of the data affected physician judgement. We conclude that knowledge of phys icians about child sexual abuse shows some deficiencies, is generally better among pediatricians, and may be improved by continuing medical education.