Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

Who does the CPI need to contact on a report involving a DCFS licensed facility?

1. The caregiver

2. The head of the agency

3. The parent of the child

4. The child

The correct answer is: The head of the agency

The correct response highlights the need for the Child Protection Investigator (CPI) to contact the head of the agency in cases involving a DCFS licensed facility. This is crucial because the head of the agency holds accountability for the operations and safety standards of the facility. When a report is made concerning potential abuse or neglect within such a setting, contacting the head of the agency ensures that the investigation is conducted with the proper authority and oversight. This individual is responsible for policies and practices that govern the facility, and engaging them directly can facilitate a more effective investigation, gathering relevant information, and verifying the physical and procedural conditions of the environment where the alleged abuse or neglect occurred. In situations involving licensed facilities, the CPI often needs to work in conjunction with institutional protocols, which the agency head would be well-versed in, making them a critical point of contact. The other options, while potentially relevant in different contexts, do not fulfill the same level of necessity when specifically handling reports relating to a licensed facility. The caregiver and child might not have the full perspective on agency-level practices, and prioritizing the agency leadership streamlines the approach to handling sensitive cases and ensures comprehensive oversight.