Non-accidental injury (NAI)
Definition
Physical harm inflicted deliberately or through gross neglect rather than by accident. The term is preferred over 'child abuse' in clinical documentation because it describes what is observed without asserting intent, which is a legal determination.
Related terms
- Abusive head trauma (AHT)
- Intracranial injury resulting from violent shaking, with or without impact. Findings include subdural haematoma, subarachnoid haemorrhage, diffuse axonal injury, and retinal haemorrhages....
- Child Advocacy Centre (CAC)
- A child-focused facility that houses the medical, investigative, and support functions of a child abuse case in one location. The multidisciplinary team...
- Metaphyseal corner fracture
- A fracture through the metaphyseal collar of a long bone, producing a triangular or bucket-handle fragment. Caused by traction and torsion forces...
- Posterior rib fracture
- A fracture at the posterior rib near the costotransverse junction. Produced by forceful anteroposterior chest compression (as in squeezing), not by simple...
- Skeletal survey
- A full radiographic series of the skeleton (AP skull, lateral skull, chest, spine, pelvis, and all long bones) performed in suspected NAI...
Explained in
- Child Abuse and Non-Accidental Injury RecognitionPhysical harm inflicted deliberately or through gross neglect rather than by accident. The term is preferred over 'child abuse' in clinical documentation becau...