Which client should a nurse suspect may be experiencing abuse?

In the context of potential abuse, a 9-month-old infant found in a bathtub raises significant concerns due to several factors. First, this age group is developmentally unable to safely navigate environments like a bathtub without adult supervision. An infant's presence in a bathtub unsupervised can suggest neglect or an unsafe living situation, which is a form of abuse.

Additionally, the circumstances surrounding how the infant was found are critical. If the caregiver was unavailable or unaware of the situation, it raises red flags about parental responsibilities and awareness regarding child safety, indicating possible neglect or abuse.

While the other scenarios involve factors that could suggest abuse — such as bruises on a 5-year-old, frequent absences from school for a 12-year-old, or behavioral issues in a toddler — the specific situation of an infant found in a bathtub is particularly alarming and indicative of immediate risk or harm. In cases like these, it is crucial for the nurse to assess the situation further and potentially contact child protective services to ensure the safety of the child.