How long do we need to observe head injuries in hospital

Between 1974 and 1981, 28 701 children in Wales were admitted to hospital for observation after an injury to the head. Only 22 of 35 who subsequently developed intracranial haemorrhage, presented for examination within 24 hours of the injury. All of these patients had symptoms or signs clearly needing continued observation or treatment six hours after the injury. Many children who are currently admitted to hospital could safely be discharged after a limited period of observation.