Tips for when your baby has a boo-boo
Kids being hard on the nerves as they start taking tumbles or become mobile is an understatement. We can unfortunately not prevent every single injury but how we deal with the aftermath can make all the difference in the recovery.
Here are some tips to deal with those all to nasty boo-boo’s:
*Cuts and scrapes
Stop any bleeding by pressing firmly over the site with a clean cloth. Clean the area under lukewarm running water and gently pat dry. For broken skin apply a thin layer of antiseptic cream and then cover with a plaster or gauze and adhesive tape. When you can’t control the bleeding after several attempts with direct pressure get to the emergency room as soon as possible.
*Burn wounds
Immediately hold the burned area under cool running water or apply a cold, wet towel. Cover any small blisters with a loose bandage or gauze and tape; call a doctor immediately if the burns are extensive or are on the face, hands or genitals.
*Nose bleeds
Have your child sit upright, but don’t tilt his/her head back. Loosen any tight clothing around the neck. Pinch the lower end of her nose close to the nostrils and have them lean forward while you apply pressure continuously for five to 10 minutes. Don’t release and check the nose; it could prolong the bleeding. If the nosebleed is the result of a trauma, reduce swelling by holding an ice pack against the bridge of the nose after the bleeding slows down. If it persists after 10 minutes or returns later call emergency services for help.
*Glass and splinters
Use soap and water to wash around the splinter. Clean a pair of tweezers with rubbing alcohol and slowly pull the splinter out. Wash the skin again. When a splinter is hard to remove, leave it for a day or so to see whether it comes out on its own. If your child steps on a piece of glass – and it’s not a single shard- you can easily remove, gently wrap a clean cloth around the area and go to the ER.
*To be continued in article 2.
Read our next article containing tips about eye traumas, insect stings and bites and First Aid kit essentials!
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