Children's Safety Comes First

By: Edie Mindell

Having to deal with toddlers can sometimes be very scary especially when they start to be hyperactive. But having to deal with cuts, scratches, and bruises caused by their being active, can scare you to death. But you can't possibly stop that from coming. Your child getting hurt is part of the process of his physical and mental development. And as parents, you need to be aware of the outcome of the said experiences, and should always be prepared to take immediate actions to lessen the pain your child is facing.

Here is a list of the most common wounds that kids sustain and the appropriate first-aid treatments parents must know:

Abrasion - This is a common playground accident for toddlers. This wound draws out a loud cry but is not much of a bleeder.

You should wash the affected area with soap and water. Put an antiseptic ointment on the abrasion. Cover it up with a sterile dressing or adhesive bandage to protect it from dirt that could lead to infection. Do not use alcohol on open wounds as that is too painful for a young child to endure.

Punctures, Cuts, Lacerations - These are commonly caused by accidents involving rough children play and running around on open spaces. Puncture culprits are common items found around the house such as a sharp pencil or a barbecue stick.

Before you inspect your child's wound, be sure to clean your hands well. You don't want to infect this open wound and aggravate it more. Wash the area clean with soap and warm water. For cut wounds that are bleeding, put pressure on the wound by gently pressing the cut with a clean cloth for 5-10 minutes.

Burns

Burns are often caused by a child's mere curiosity. Kids dare themselves to try out such things like touching a lit candle, touching the cooking pan, and other hot objects, and thus, subject themselves to pain and injury.

When treating a burn, let cool (not cold) water or any drinkable liquid run on the burned area or apply cold compress. Check the condition of the burned area. If it appears to be that bad, rush your child to the nearest hospital for further treatment.

Remember, as parents, you have to be fully prepared of sudden accidents. You should have a first-aid kit in your house. Your first-aid kit should include the following: Sterile gauze, plaster, adhesive and elastic bandage, antiseptic wipes, bar of soap, antibiotic cream, antiseptic solution, tweezers and sharp scissors, safety pins, instant cold packs, calamine lotion, alcohol, and thermometer.

To finish, it is only natural for kids to be active---and get into accidents. In fact, indoor and outdoor activities can help boost kids physical health and self confidence. Thus, it is the parents' duty to make sure that the house is kid-friendly. Always be attentive whenever kids are playing. Don't let them out of your sight.

Article Source: http://www.yesparenting.com/articles

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