Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

A moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by a blow or hard jolt to the head. It can also be cause by an injury that punctures the skull. This injury can lead to life-long health problems.

For a moderate to severe TBI, your child will have emergency treatment right away. This may include medicine, fluids, help with breathing, or surgery. Most children with a moderate to severe TBI will need ongoing treatment and therapy. This can help manage the long-term effects of a serious brain injury.

A moderate to severe TBI may cause long-term problems with thinking and learning, motor skills, hearing and vision, and changes in mood and behavior. The effects of a TBI can be different for each person, and they may change over time.

There are many different types of treatments and therapies to help a child recover from a serious brain injury. The goal of rehabilitation is to help you relearn skills and improve their quality of life.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Help your child build good sleep habits. Getting enough rest is an important part of recovery.
• Let your child return to normal activities gradually. Help them find safe activities that they enjoy.
• Give your child healthy foods. Healthy eating may help your child feel well and have the energy they need for daily tasks.
• Ask your child's doctor when it is okay for them to return to sports or physical activities.
• Encourage your child to avoid activities that make them feel worse. These may be physically or mentally demanding activities like housework, exercise, schoolwork, or video games.
• If your child's doctor prescribed medicines for pain or other symptoms, be sure your child takes them as directed. Talk to your doctor about giving over-the-counter medicines if needed.
• Ask for support from friends or family if you need to. Or consider talking to a counselor.
• If your child is getting long-term care, such as physical therapy, counseling, or other therapies, make sure they go to all of their appointments.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• Your child has a seizure.
• Your child passes out (loses consciousness).
• Your child is confused or hard to wake up.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child has new or worse vomiting.
• Your child seems less alert.
• Your child has new weakness or numbness in any part of the body.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• Your child does not get better as expected.
• Your child has new symptoms, such as headaches, trouble concentrating, or changes in mood.