Pediatric abusive head trauma: A nursing call to action

Pediatric abusive head trauma (AHT) is the leading cause of death from physical child abuse in the United States. The term "pediatric AHT" replaced the former descriptor, "shaken baby syndrome," to include all nonaccidental head injuries. AHT can present with a wide range of symptoms that are often vague, including lethargy, vomiting, and irritability, leading to missed diagnoses. Various clinical decision tools assist in the efficient and accurate detection of AHT. Nurses play a pivotal and opportune role in the prevention, screening, and education. This article discusses the risk factors, clinical presentation, key assessment findings, diagnostic criteria, screening tools, and educational approaches for nurses to better care for patients and families with this suspected diagnosis. Additionally, nurses can follow the Concern for AHT Guide, which initiates the outsourcing of resources through Child Protective Services and social work. Another tool discussed is the Period of PURPLE Crying, which is implemented in postpartum discharge teachings, well-baby appointments, and baby immunization appointments to decrease AHT.