Empowering Nursing Students to Confidently Report Child Abuse: A Commentary on the Study From Izmir, Türkiye

This commentary responds to recent research by Zengin et al., who investigated nursing students' attitudes towards reporting child abuse and neglect in Izmir, Türkiye. Although the study highlights a strong sense of reporting responsibility among future nurses, it also uncovers lingering apprehensions, including uncertainty about legal definitions and fears of worsening the child's circumstances. Drawing on related literature, this commentary emphasizes the need for structured curricula and clinical mentorship to promote sustained competence in mandatory reporting. It advocates for simulation-based training, case-based discussions and collaboration with legal and social service experts to ease concerns over repercussions. Cross-disciplinary initiatives could illustrate that timely reporting offers measurable benefits for vulnerable children. With this synergy of theory, practice and interagency support, nurse educators can better prepare student nurses to fulfil their ethical responsibility, ensuring that child abuse no longer remains concealed in healthcare settings. These steps towards clearer policy, practical skill-building and continuing support will help transform transient academic knowledge into effective, compassionate interventions—ultimately strengthening safeguards for at-risk children.