Bruising and injuries in infants who are not independently mobile
Bruising in babies who are not rolling or crawling is unusual. It is sometimes due to deliberate injury.
It is important that any suspected injury is fully assessed even if the parents feel they are able to give a reason for it.
All young babies with bruising or injury should be referred immediately to Children’s Services. However, if the child is seriously injured you should seek emergency treatment at an emergency department.
Children’s Services will make background checks and arrange a paediatric assessment as soon as possible (within a maximum of four hours).
After the paediatric assessment, a strategy discussion takes place between the social worker, police and paediatrician. The outcome is then explained to the parents.
Frequently asked questions
Why are Children's Services involved from the start? SHOW
What if parents refuse consent? SHOW
What if the parents provide a reasonable explanation? SHOW
What if the child is disabled, aged over six months, but is not mobile? SHOW
For more information, please visit the HIPS Safeguarding Children Procedures website.
