As a healthcare 

provider, you play 

a critical role in 

Traumatic Brain 

Injury (TBI) recovery 

by providing 

care, education, 

and referrals to 

optimize outcomes 

in this vulnerable 

population. 

A TBI is a serious public health 

problem that can affect a child’s 

overall health and well-being. 

Common causes by age group: 

PROVIDERS Traumatic Brain 

Injury in Children 

15-24

YEARS OLD 

Falls, and motor 

vehicle crashes 

0-14

YEARS OLD 

Falls, and being struck 

by or against an object 

HELP IMPROVE OUTCOMES 

IN CHILDREN AFTER A TBI 

WHAT IS A TBI?
 

A Traumatic Brain Injury disrupts the normal function of the brain and 

can be caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Injuries can range 

from mild to severe based on the number and type of symptoms. 

Children whose brains are still developing are especially at risk for longterm effects from a TBI. Symptom assessment, understanding a child’s 

medical history, and follow-up are especially critical for children to help 

recovery, and to ensure good health across their lifespan. 

CDC’s Report to Congress outlines current gaps in TBI care, 

and provides clear opportunities for action to improve the 

management and outcomes of TBI in children. 

18,000

HOSPITAL STAYS 

640,000

ED VISITS 

Among children aged 14 and younger, 

TBI contributed to nearly: 

TBI IN CHILDREN IN 2013 

Taylor CA, Bell JM, Breiding MJ, Xu L. Traumatic brain injury–related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths—United States, 

2007 and 2013. MMWR Surveillance Summaries. 2017; 66 
U.S. Department of 

Health and Hum11n Services 

Centers for Disease 

Control and Prevention 

TBI Effects can Last a Lifetime 

Most children are resilient and recover well following a TBI, 

but some effects can cause problems later in life, such as: 

• Academic challenges and difficulty finding a job

• Chronic behavior problems

• Social isolation

• Difficulty with peer relationships

• Risk for offending behavior and incarceration

• Lower participation in activities

• Depression and other mental health diagnoses

PROVIDER COORDINATION IS KEY TO IMPROVED OUTCOMES
 

While each child’s recovery from a TBI is unique, healthcare providers working closely with parents and school professionals 

throughout the recovery process can improve outcomes. As a healthcare provider, your influence can extend beyond the exam 

room to help bridge gaps in care. 

TREAT 

• Implement the most recent guidelines for TBI assessment

and management.

• Involve a multidisciplinary team in the management of the

physical, cognitive, and social issues that the family and

child may experience.

COORDINATE 

• Offer referrals for rehabilitation and other services available in

your community.

• Collaborate with parents and schools to create healthcare-toschool transition plans.

• Refer families with children younger than 5 to early

intervention services, preschool special education services, or

state-based programs, such as Child Find.

• Assist families in managing physical, cognitive, and social

issues for the family and child.

EDUCATE 

• Inform parents and families about available medical and

school services, and encourage them to seek school support.

• Provide counseling and educational materials to help

families identify and access healthcare and school services.

MONITOR 

• Encourage parents to document any physical, cognitive, and

behavioral challenges the child experiences after receiving

initial medical care.

• Provide ongoing follow-up and monitoring to assist with a

successful return to school.

Children recovering from a TBI need ongoing monitoring, coordinated care, and support. Although initial 

medical management focuses on survival and reducing medical problems, the ultimate goal is for children to 

return to optimal functioning and quality of life. 

LEARN MORE 

TBI: www.cdc.gov/TraumaticBrainInjury 

HEADS UP: www.cdc.gov/HEADSUP