Lawyers sometimes portray the validity of the abusive head trauma diagnosis as controversial and this can hurt abused children by impacting court outcomes. A revised AAP policy statement from the AAP Council on Child Abuse and Neglect reminds pediatric practitioners of their fundamental responsibilities: high vigilance for the diagnosis and strong advocacy for the protection of children.
- Policy Statement: Abusive Head Trauma in Infants and Children
- AAP News: Revised abusive head trauma policy calls for continued vigilance, advocacy
- Press Release: The American Academy of Pediatrics Warns of Subtle Signs of Abusive Head Trauma
- HealthyChildren.org: Abusive Head Trauma: How to Protect Your Baby
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics, March 23, 2020