The GSCP Bruising Protocol provides frontline, Health and Social Care staff with information to support the assessment, management and referral of infants / babies and also disabled children who are not independently mobile, and who present with injuries even if they appear to have resolved.
It is rare for non-mobile babies to have injuries (up to 1% may be accidental). Whilst it is important to keep an open mind, remember that a bruise or injury may be a sign of a serious medical condition or abuse, and that other injuries may be hidden. It is important to be curious about how the injury occurred and what explanations were provided by the parent/s and carers, and to document these carefully.
