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Warning-sign checks

Child physical abuse: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Use emergency services for breathing difficulty, seizures, fainting, inability to wake the child normally, severe bleeding, new weakness, or another immediate threat to the child's safety.

    Routine follow-up appointments are not a substitute for emergency care.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice for increasing pain, fever, wound redness, repeated vomiting, new limping, reduced use of a limb, worsening headaches, or important changes in behavior or alertness.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up should be tailored to the child's injuries and safety plan.

    Routine medical visits may include checking wound or burn healing, fracture alignment, growth, movement, hearing, vision, and neurological function.

    Repeat imaging or specialist appointments may be arranged when needed.

    Mental health follow-up may continue even after physical injuries have healed.

    Safe caregivers should tell clinicians about new symptoms or changes at home or school.

The article also says

The child's primary care clinician can monitor sleep, mood, behavior, school progress, and developmental milestones.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Child physical abuse. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.