The Approach to Non-Accidental Trauma: What to Watch Out For

Non-Accidental Trauma (NAT) is a tough thing to talk about. While almost all parents just want what is best for their kids, we cannot ignore the statistics that NAT (aka child abuse or child mal-treatment) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality – particularly in young children. Even more concerning: the vast majority of children who have bad outcomes have some form of prior medical contact. So let’s acknowledge the difficulty, then talk about some subtle signs of abuse that you need to look out for that may just save a kids life.

References

Those who don’t cruise, rarely bruise

The “10-4” rule of bruising

If you suspect abuse, what is the correct imaging?

Do LFTS predict abdominal injury?