First Aid Guides
Head Injuries Kids
First aid for head injuries in kids
Children often fall and bang or bump their heads. It may be difficult to tell whether a head injury is serious or not.
View the signs and symptoms for Head Injuries
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First Aid for Minor Head Injuries
You can ask the child to rest and put an ice pack on the bump or bruise for a minor injury.
If your child has pain, speak to a pharmacist or GP and they may suggest giving paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Remember, symptoms of head injuries can be delayed. If your child was ok but symptoms appear later or return, seek medical aid.
Call Health Direct for advice if you are unsure of actions to take or if you are unsure about the severity of symptoms.
A child who has had a head injury:
- Requires observation – for 48 hours after the head injury.
- Should not do anything where they are likely to suffer a second head injury for at least 48 hours e.g. ride a bike, climb play equipment, play sport.
- May gradually resume normal activity (excluding sports) as directed, usually within 2 - 3 days.
If your child has any of the following, they should see a doctor or attend the emergency department:
- Has a seizure (fit).
- Seems drowsy, confused or clumsy.
- Has a large lump, bruise or wound.
- Sustained a hard knock to their head that you are concerned about.
You should attend the emergency department immediately or call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance if your child:
- Has had a head injury involving high speed or height greater than a metre, for example, a car crash, a high-speed skateboard accident or falling from playground equipment.
- Loses consciousness (passes out).
- Has a seizure, convulsion or fit.
- Is increasingly confused, has memory loss or is less responsive or drowsy.
- Has loss of vision or double vision.
- Has weakness or numbness/tingling in more than one arm or leg.
- Has neck pain or tenderness.
- Seems unwell and vomits more than once.
- Has a severe or increasing headache.
- Is increasingly restless, agitated, or combative.
First Aid for Severe Head Injuries
Follow DRSABCD
- If conscious and NO suspected neck or spinal injury, place child with head and shoulders slightly raised. Support to stop movement, improvise using rolled towels, blankets or clothing.
- If unconscious but breathing, place into the Recovery Position.
- Support child’s head and neck in neutral alignment during movement to avoid any twisting action.
- If there is any blood or fluid from the ear, place injured side down to allow fluid to drain, place pad between ear and ground.
- Ensure airway is kept clear and open.
- Control bleeding, but do not apply direct pressure to the skull.
- Observe for any changes in signs, symptoms and level of consciousness.
- Urgent medical aid – even if only momentary loss of consciousness.
What to do for head injuries
DO observe your child for the next few days, even if they have only had a minor bump to the head.
DO take your child to the emergency department if severe symptoms return or appear later.
DO call Health Direct for advice if you are unsure or worried.
What not to do for head injuries
DON’T let your child return to sports or activities that may cause another injury for at least 48 hours.
