A nurse working at a middle school suspects that a student is experiencing physical abuse after collecting data from the student. Which of the following actions should the nurse take next?

Make a report to Child Protective Services (CPS). Nurses are mandated reporters and must report suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities, such as CPS, to ensure the safety of the child. Call the police and report the suspected abuse: While police involvement may be necessary, CPS is the primary agency for child welfare and abuse cases. Alert the school office to call parents: Informing the parents could place the child at further risk if the parents are the perpetrators. Call the child's guardian to have the child's pediatrician confirm the suspected abuse: This delays reporting and does not ensure immediate intervention to protect the child.