Head Injuries

Head Injuries Most trauma to the head is minor and will not require first aid. But trauma that is associated with symptoms of a concussion (such as nausea, unsteadiness, headaches) needs to be evaluated by a medical professional. More serious injury indicated by the following warrant calling for emergency medical care (911). Keep the child skill, stop any bleeding, and monitor vital signs (and start CPR if needed). Symptoms of severe head injury:

 Severe bleeding or bleeding from nose or ears

 Change in consciousness

 Not breathing

 Confusion or slow response to questions

 Dizziness, balance problems, or trouble walking

 Unequal pupil size

 Slurred speech

 Seizures

 Persistent crying

 Refusing to eat

 Repeated vomiting

 Bulge in an infant’s soft spot10,11

Injuries to the Mouth Injuries to the head, face, and mouth are common in young children. Even when families do their best to keep children safe, oral injuries can happen. Most oral injuries happen when young children are learning to walk. The top front teeth are injured most often. If the child’s tongue or lip is injured, the area should be cleaned. Ice wrapped in a clean cloth can be placed on the area to reduce swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 30 minutes, medical attention should be sought. If a child has an injury to a tooth, families should contact a dentist for advice. Teeth that are knocked out should not be put back in the mouth.