The reflex that enables an individual to
put out an outstretched hand instinctively
when falling develops at approximately
eight to nine months. Despite this, infants
when first mobilising may sustain head and
facial injuries as the head of the infant is
proportionately much larger than that of
the adult. In addition, the skull of the infant
has patent fontanelles (unfused apertures in
the bony skull). The posterior fontanelle is
patent until approximately five months and
the anterior fontanelle is patent until around
18 months of age. During intracerebral
bleeding the fontanelles may become full or
turgid (bulging), although this is not an early
sign of intracerebral bleeding (Advanced Life
Support Group 2005).