Head Injuries - When is a hard knock, too hard?

On average 16,412 children each year are hospitalised following a knock to the head. For many children the injury is mild and can be managed with rest. But for some it may be life threatening, so inform yourself of these 10 red flags for when head injuries need urgent medical attention.

Prevention should always be at the forefront of our minds, in younger children avoid placing them unsupervised on a surface they can fall off e.g. on the bed.
In toddlers they are more likely to sustain an injury from climbing furniture or play equipment.
In older children  wearing helmets on bikes and scooters  also discouraging children from climbing unsafe areas (e.g. don't leave ladders up next to buildings).
On farms and rural properties children should be supervised at all times around livestock such as horses and cattle.

If your child shows any of these 10 signs below you should present to the emergency department or call an ambulance ASAP. These signs may appear straight away or within 72 hours of the injury.