Childhood Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Vital Guidelines for Recovery

I’m Mike Hackard from Hackard Law.  Our firm represents individuals who have suffered traumatic brain injuries due to the negligence of others.

Sadly, many of these cases involve children who have been injured in car accidents while riding as passengers. Traumatic brain injuries can have a profound impact on a child’s life, affecting their cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being. That’s why it’s crucial for healthcare providers to have clear guidelines for diagnosing and managing these injuries.

In July 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated guidelines specifically addressing mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in children. These guidelines, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, aim to improve the care provided to children who have experienced mTBI and to ensure a safer, more comprehensive recovery process.

The updated guidelines provide essential information for healthcare providers, parents, and other stakeholders involved in a child’s care following a mild traumatic brain injury. Key points from the updated guidelines include:

1. Diagnostic recommendations: The guidelines provide a clear definition of mTBI and list specific signs and symptoms that healthcare providers should look for when assessing children with suspected concussions.
2. Imaging: The guidelines recommend against routine imaging (CT scans or MRIs) for children with mTBI, unless there are specific risk factors or concerning symptoms present.
3. Management strategies: The document outlines a 5-step return to activity plan, emphasizing the importance of gradual reintroduction to physical and cognitive activities following an mTBI.
4. Rest and recovery: The guidelines highlight the importance of initial rest followed by a gradual, personalized return to activities, as opposed to strict rest for prolonged periods.
5. Education and communication: Healthcare providers are encouraged to educate families about the signs and symptoms of mTBI, as well as the expected recovery process and when to seek further medical attention.
6. Multidisciplinary approach: The guidelines stress the importance of a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, parents, schools, and other relevant stakeholders in managing a child’s recovery from mTBI.

These updated guidelines aim to standardize and improve the care provided to children with mTBI across the United States, ensuring early recognition, proper management, and a safe return to activities. It’s important to remember that many cases of mTBI in children are caused by the negligence of others, such as in car accidents.

If your child or someone close to you has experienced a traumatic brain injury due to another person’s carelessness, you may be facing a long and difficult road to recovery. At Hackard Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a TBI can take on a child and their family.

You don’t have to face this challenge alone. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation and support your child deserves. If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to call us at 916-313-3030.

We’re here to stand up for you and your family every step of the way.

Hackard Law: Remember, it’s never just an accident.