Bruising and injury in babies and children who cannot move around by themselves (not independently mobile)

It is rare for babies and children who cannot move around by themselves (independently mobile) to get a bruise or an injury during normal day-to-day activities such as feeding, nappy changing and normal handling.

A bruise may be related to an undiagnosed health condition.  Bruising can also be due to deliberate injury.

Even when there is a simple explanation, it is important that your child is fully assessed.

Any professional who finds that a child who is not independently mobile is bruised or injured must take action.  They are required to speak with a Paediatrician (children’s doctor) and Children’s Services (Social Worker).

We will arrange for your child to be seen by a Paediatrician as soon as possible (usually the same day). This assessment is normally carried out at the Borders General Hospital.

The Paediatrician will talk to you about your child, examine your child and decide whether to do any further tests. Tests can include blood tests, x-rays or scans. These tests can take time and may involve staying in hospital.

A bruise can be a sign of a health condition. Sometimes, it also takes an expert to tell the difference between a bruise and certain types of birthmark. The Paediatrician will examine your child and discuss with you why there might be a bruise or injury. The Paediatrician will rule out or diagnose an underlying health condition.

Although rare, bruising may be caused by deliberate injury. When this occurs, it is important to investigate as soon as possible so that we can support you and your family and protect the child. Referral to Children’s Services is not an accusation of wrongdoing.

Even if bruising is due to an accident, your family may benefit from advice and support on preventing accidents and improving home safety.

Children’s Services will make enquiries about you and your child. They will check whether you have received services from them in the past. They will also arrange to speak with you, either by phone or in person.

Children’s Services work closely with the healthcare team and Police. They will ask for information from your GP and Health Visitor. They will then discuss their findings with the Paediatrician Police and decide together whether any further action needs to be taken. The Police may also want to speak with you.

We understand that this can be very upsetting. However, the only way of picking up serious causes for bruising is to investigate every case of bruising in children who are not independently mobile.

You can be reassured that you will be treated respectfully and sensitively. Your explanations will be listened to. You will also be kept fully informed so that you know exactly what is going on and why. If you do not understand any part of the process and need further explanation, just ask the professionals involved. They can provide you with further information.

All professionals working with children are required to make sure that children are kept safe from harm. Where bruising or injury is not accidental professionals will put an immediate plan in place to protect your child from further harm.