| S |
SHAKING a baby or child – even a little out of anger or while playing can cause brain injury or death. |
| H |
HOW does SBS happen? Often frustrated adults shake a baby or child to try to make them stop crying. Even a few shakes can cause damage because of children’s weak neck muscles. |
| A |
AWARE – be aware of the physical signs of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS)
- Difficulty Breathing
- Inability to focus eyes or track movement
- Extreme irritability
- Lethargy
- Vomiting for no apparent reason
- Seizures
- Bulging or spongy forehead
- Bruises on shoulders, neck or arms
- Poor sucking or swallowing
- No smiling or vocalization
- Inability to lift head
- Unequal size of pupils
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| K |
KNOW your limits. If your stressed, get help with the care of the child. Anger, exhaustion, depression, and frustration can push adults to lose their tempers. KNOW who watches your children. Make sure family members, friends and child care teachers are aware of how easy it is to injure a baby or child. |
| I |
IF you see someone shake a baby or child accidentally or on purpose, call 911 or take the child to the emergency room. Immediate medical attention could save a life. |
| N |
NEVER shake a baby or child. Brain damage, paralysis, mental retardation, seizures, blindness, and death can result. |
| G |
GET support and help for yourself with a crying , fussy child. Take deep breaths, let your frustration out in a safe way, ask a friend or relative to relieve you for a break. |
