Shaken baby syndrome

Alternative names:

whiplash-shaken infant

First aid:

• For a severe head injury such as this, immediate emergency treatment is necessary.
• If the victim stops breathing before emergency help arrives, begin CPR.
• If the victim is vomiting and you don't suspect a spinal injury, turn his head to the side to prevent choking and aspiration. If you suspect a spinal injury, CAREFULLY roll the whole body the side as one unit ("logrolling").
• If the victim has a convulsion, follow instructions for seizure-first aid.

Do not:

• DO NOT pick up the child or shake him to attempt to wake him up.
• DO NOT attempt to give anything by mouth.

Call immediately for emergency medical assistance if:

• a child exhibits any of the above signs or symptoms
• you suspect a child has sustained this type of injury