Non-accidental and Neglectful Injuries
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Non-Accidental and Neglectful Injuries in Children: Patterns and Outcomes from a Single Site
IRAS ID
206746
Contact name
Julie Taylor
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Birmingham Children's Hospital
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 27 days
Research summary
During the period 2004 to 2013, 7.6% (1,126) of the 14,821 children registered on the England and Wales TARN* database were defined as non-accidental injuries (alleged assault or suspected child abuse). Victims had three fold higher mortality rates compared to accidental trauma (1). The lack of regional specific information on non-accidental and neglect injuries combined with concern that local factors could increase the risk for recurrent cases has led to this proposal.\nThe aim of this feasibility study is to explore the demographics of non-accidental and neglect injuries in children (0-16 year old) admitted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH) and determine whether geography and socio-economic status are risk factors. By identifying recurrent cases, we will also explore factors that may contribute to recurrence. We will also seek to identify patterns among unexplained or non-suspicious injuries not followed up but later found to be of significant injury (sentinel injuries). Through this study we will explore what data is available, what data can be extracted and can be useful in order to create meaningful findings that could support the undertaking of a bigger study across the UK.\nData will be extracted by retrospectively reviewing all paediatric patients (0- 16 years old) who were identified as non accidental or neglect injuries and received medical care at BCH during the period 2011-2015. Data will be drawn from Child Protection referral forms and patient notes by personnel who normally have access to this data. The extracted data will be anonymised and will be analysed by experienced academics.\nIt is expected that the findings will offer an insight on non-accidental and neglect injuries within West Midlands and beyond. The findings could help receiving hospitals identify children with major injuries resulting from abuse, and ensure swift transfer to appropriate specialist care. \n\n*TARN= Trauma Audit and Research Network\n\n1.\tDavies F, Coats T, Lecky FE (2015) A 10-year demographic comparison of major trauma as a result of non-accidental injury versus accidental injury in the UK. Emergency Medicine Journal, 32:1004-1005 doi:10.1136/emermed-2015-205372.58\n
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0679
Date of REC Opinion
16 Sep 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion