In infants who are non-walking, what should be true about bruising?

In non-walking infants, the presence of bruising is not considered normal or common. Since infants who are not yet walking do not engage in activities that typically lead to the injuries associated with bruising, any bruising that is observed raises concerns. Infants are largely dependent on caregivers and do not have the mobility that older children or adults have, making spontaneous bruising rare.

Thus, when bruising is detected in non-walking infants, it is necessary to approach the situation with caution and a proper investigation, as it may suggest underlying issues, including potential abuse. The absence of bruises in this age group aligns with expectations of their developmental stage and safety concerns, reinforcing the importance of vigilant monitoring. This is why the statement that bruises should not be present in non-walking infants accurately captures the medical understanding and protocols in investigations related to infant well-being.