1. Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS)

2. SBS is a term that describes a group of symptoms resulting from shaking a small infant or child. It can also result from an infant or child falling and hitting their head.

3. Infants and small child have weak neck muscles and large heavy heads.

4. When an infant or small child is shaken the brain is tossed inside the skull causing brain tissue to bruise or rupture. The brain swells causing pressure inside the head and blood supply is decreased.

6. Brain is damaged

7. Sometimes there are no outward signs, but some immediate signs are: Limp arms and legs Excessive drooling Seizures Unexplained vomiting Respiratory arrest Cardiac arrest Death

8. If the infant or child survives the long- term consequences may include: Mental Retardation Vision problems and or blindness Speech disabilities Seizures Learning Disabilities Hearing loss Physical Disabilities

9. Why does SBS happen? Anger Frustration Lack of coping skills No empathy for the infant/child

10. What can people do to prevent SBS? Take a deep breath and count to 10! Put the infant in a safe place and leave the room for a few minutes Ask for help!! Family, friends, hot lines Hug and cuddle the infant Try gentle motion like rocking or swinging Speak to your doctor

11. Shaking An Infant or Child is Illegal Can you imagine hurting an innocent child?

12. Stop the Abuse Please!