The impact of an educational intervention on knowledge about infant crying and abusive head trauma

Infants follow a predictable trajectory of increased early crying. Frustration with crying is reported to be a trigger for abusive head trauma (AHT).

To evaluate the impact of postpartum delivery of the educational program, the Period of PURPLE Crying (PURPLE), in a group of first-time mothers. The primary objective was to determine whether there was a change in knowledge about infant crying and shaking after exposure to PURPLE. Factors associated with change in knowledge were also examined.

A total of 93 participants were recruited over a four-month period at a tertiary care hospital in Nova Scotia. Pre- and postintervention data were collected.

Knowledge about infant crying increased significantly after program delivery (P=0.001). Low baseline crying knowledge was a significant predictor of increased knowledge about infant crying (P≤0.01). There was an insignificant decrease in shaking knowledge (P=0.5), which may have been the consequence of high baseline knowledge.

An educational program for new parents appears to be warranted, especially with respect to improving knowledge about infant crying. This may have a positive benefit in AHT prevention. Additional studies are required to evaluate the impact of the program on other caregivers and on rates of AHT.