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Why is shaking an infant especially dangerous?

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Final answer:

Shaking an infant is dangerous and can result in shaken-baby syndrome, which can lead to long-term disabilities or death. Shaking is often triggered by frustration when parents are unable to soothe a crying baby. Caregivers should learn alternative soothing techniques and recognize the risks.

Step-by-step explanation:

Shaking a baby can result in shaken-baby syndrome, which can cause retinal hemorrhage and swelling of the brain, making it particularly dangerous. A baby's brain can move back and forth inside the skull during a violent shake, harming the baby's brain tissue and fragile blood vessels. Long-term impairments, developmental delays, or even death may result from this.

According to a study, shaking causes 1,400 babies' deaths or major injuries annually. When a parent finds themselves unable to calm their crying infant, they frequently become frustrated and shake the baby. It's critical that caregivers understand the dangers of shaking a baby and acquire alternate soothing methods.

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