Shaken impact syndrome; Whiplash - shaken infant

Call 911 or your local emergency number. Immediate emergency treatment is necessary.

If the child stops breathing before emergency help arrives, begin CPR.

See: CPR in an infant under 1 year old

Steps to take if the child is vomiting:

• If you don't think there is a spinal injury, turn the child's head to one side to prevent the baby from choking and breathing in vomit to the lungs (aspiration).
• If you do think there is a spinal injury, CAREFULLY roll the child's whole body to one side at the same time (as if rolling a log) while protecting the neck to prevent choking and aspiration.

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

Call your health care provider if a child has any of the above signs or symptoms, regardless of how severe they are. Also call if you think a child has shaken baby syndrome.

If you think a child is in immediate danger because of abuse or neglect, you should call 911.

If you suspect that a child is being abused, report it immediately. Most states have a child abuse hotline. You may also use Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-Child).

Images

Shaken baby symptoms

Previous Section

Shaken baby syndrome Symptoms

Next Section

Shaken baby syndrome Prevention

Review Date: 01/24/2011
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)