Home Care Advice for Scalp Injuries

1. Wound Care: If there is a scrape or cut, wash it off with soap and water. Then apply pressure with a sterile gauze for 10 minutes to stop any bleeding.

2. Local Cold: Apply a cold pack or ice bag wrapped in a wet cloth to any swelling for 20 minutes. (Big lumps are common)

3. Observation: Observe your child closely during the first 2 hours following the injury.

	Encourage your child to lie down and rest until all symptoms have cleared. (Note: mild headache, mild dizziness and nausea are common)
	Allow your child to sleep if he wants to, but keep him nearby.
	Awaken after 2 hours of sleeping to check the ability to walk and talk.

4. Diet: Offer only clear fluids to drink, in case he vomits. Regular diet OK after 2 hours.

5. Avoid Pain Medicines: If the headache is that bad, he needs to be examined.

6. Special Precautions at Night: Awaken your child at your bedtime and again 4 hours later for 2 nights. Check the ability to walk and talk. Sleep in same room as your child for 2 nights. After 48 hours, return to a normal routine.

7. Expected Course: Most head impact only causes a scalp injury. The swelling may take a week to resolve. The local headache at the site of impact usually clears in 2 to 3 days.

8. Call Your Doctor If:

	Pain becomes severe
	Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms

Last reviewed: 8/2005
Last revised: 8/2005