AbstractChild maltreatment is a global concern as it has serious lifelong consequences. It has been observed that exposure to violence and abuse is daily occurrence for many children throughout the world. Nurses are the first contact in health care system, who routinely encounter children and their families. The forensic nurses play a major role in identifying abuse and neglect. She also take active part in documenting the findings which is collected by her, which can act as most important tools to build a good case against abusive, neglectful parents, guardians and caregivers. Nurses should take role in preventive strategies for child abuse, so that it offers best opportunity to identify at risk children, improve health and prevent exposures to violence and abuse. An understanding of child maltreatment helps nurses to identify child maltreatment, implements target care and refer children and families appropriate resources.