2. Babies cry because it’s their way of communicating! As nurses we play a major role in educating parents about Shaken Baby Syndrome and how to prevent it.
3. Shaken Baby syndrome occurs when: A baby is shaken causing the head to snap back and forth A baby’s head is bigger in proportion to the rest of the body When shaken the baby’s brain will hit the front and back of the skull causing serious damage
4. A little education can prevent something like this…. Injuries that can result include blindness, mental retardation, seizures, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, paralysis, broken bones, speech or learning disabilities and even death
5. Interventions: Hold the baby Feed and burp the baby Change the diaper Go for a car or stroller ride Try a baby swing **Sometimes a baby is trying to communicate that they are sick
6. If your interventions don’t work it is ok to do the following: Take deep cleansing breaths Lay the baby down in the crib Leave the room Read Exercise Call for help Return to the infant in 5 to 10 minutes If all else fails call your health care provider
7. Shaking a baby can occur in a split second loss of control! A maternal child nurse can help to reduce the incidence of Shaken Baby Syndrome by being knowledgeable of the causes and preventative measures. Take the time to educate patients!
8. Reference PA Department of Health. (2007). My baby keeps crying…I just want the crying to stop [Brochure]. Rendell, E.G: Author.
