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What should I do if my child has a head injury but does not lose consciousness? For anything more than a light bump on the head, you should call your pediatrician. Your pediatrician will want to know when and how the injury happened and how your child is feeling. If your child is alert and responds to you, the head injury is mild and usually no tests or X-rays are needed. Your child may cry from pain or fright, but this should last no longer than 10 minutes. You may need to apply a cold compress for 20 minutes to help the swelling go down and then watch your child closely for a period of time. If there are any changes in your child's condition, call your pediatrician right away. You may need to bring your child to the pediatrician's office or directly to the hospital. The following are signs of a more serious injury:
Loss of consciousness If your child loses consciousness, call your pediatrician. Special tests may need to be done as soon as possible so that your pediatrician can find out how serious the injury is. If the test results are normal, your pediatrician will want you to watch your child closely for a period of time. Your pediatrician will let you know if this can be done at home or in the hospital. If you take your child home and her condition changes, call your pediatrician right away since more care may be needed. Home observation You or another responsible adult should stay with your child for the first 24 hours and be ready to take your child back to the pediatrician or hospital if there is a problem. Your child may need to be watched carefully for a few days because there could be a delay in signs of a more serious injury. It is okay for your child to go to sleep. However, your pediatrician may recommend that you check your child every 2 to 3 hours to make sure he moves normally, wakes enough to recognize you, and responds to you. If your pediatrician prescribes medicine, follow the directions carefully. Do not give pain medication, except for acetaminophen, unless your pediatrician says it is okay. Your pediatrician will let you know if your child can eat and drink as usual. If your child gets worse, your pediatrician will need to examine her again. If a CAT scan has not been done, your pediatrician may order one. Your pediatrician also may talk with a specialist or admit your child to the hospital for closer observation. Call your
pediatrician or return to the hospital if your child experiences any of the
following:
If your child does well through the observation period, there should be no long-lasting problems. Remember, most head injuries are mild. However, be sure to talk with your pediatrician about any concerns or questions you might have.
Published online: 3/07 Healthcare professionals
may order
this publication in multi-copy packs. The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
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Minor
Head Injury