Abuse - neglect in mentally handicapped children and nursing approach

Neglect and abuse is a major issue that encountered in all societies, affects development of both healthy and disabled children negatively, may even cause death. while abuse may be physical,emotional and sexual, neglect may be emotional and physical. in disabled children especially mentally handicapped children’s encounter risk with abuse and neglect higher.nurses have important responsibilites for neglected and abused mentally handicapped children in approach. while nurse performs care role, she must also use all methods used in professional nursing services. the purpose of this article is to inform about abuse and neglect in mentally handicapped children and nursing approach under the light of current literature. as a result, abuse and neglect in mentally handicapped children is a matter that concerning the whole community. in the care of these children, nurses have important role.while performing this role, nurse must consider the child with family and environment as a whole.