Pennsylvania Mandated Reporter – PA Act 31 Initial Training

The term child abuse generally describes the most serious harms committed against children by the persons who are responsible for their care. This course describes and refers to all forms of child abuse. It presents in a clear and precise way the responsibilities of mandated reporters in Pennsylvania and how to report reasonable suspicions of abuse. It also describes consequences for not reporting when required. Includes instructions on using the Portal.

Professionals in Pennsylvania who need mandated reporter training for initial licensure, including the following professions:

• Chiropractic
• Dentistry
• Massage Therapy
• Medicine
• Nursing
• Examiners of Nursing Home Administrators
• Occupational Therapy
• Optometry
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Pharmacy
• Physical Therapy
• Podiatry
• Psychology
• Examiners in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
• Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors
• Funeral Directors

• Differentiate the purpose of Child Protective Services verses General Protective Services
• Define legal terminology associated with child abuse
• Explain the risk factors contributing to child abuse
• Recognize physical and behavioral indicators of child abuse and neglect
• Describe situations in which mandated reporters shall report
• Summarize the process for reporting and which methods are acceptable for mandated verses permissive reporters
• Discuss the legal protections afforded mandated reporters as well as the consequences for failing to report