Paediatric First Aid Essentials

Paediatric First Aid Essentials: A Guide for Parents in India (2024)

By Dr. Swati Pandey

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Building Your First Aid Kit
   1. Essential Medications
   2. Basic Supplies
   3. Emergency Contact Information
3. Common Childhood Injuries and Illnesses
   1. Cuts and Scrapes
   2. Burns
   3. Fever
   4. Choking
   5. Nosebleeds
   6. Insect Bites and Stings
4. When to Seek Professional Medical Help
5. FAQs

Introduction

As a paediatrician in India, I often see children with minor injuries. While most of these incidents are not serious, knowing some basic first aid can make a world of difference. It can help you stay calm, provide comfort to your child, and sometimes even prevent a situation from worsening.

This guide will cover essential first aid knowledge for parents in India, empowering you to handle common childhood mishaps with confidence.

Building Your First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is a must-have for every home with children. Here’s what I recommend including:

Essential Medications

• Pain reliever/fever reducer: Paracetamol (like Crocin) is generally safe for children. Always follow the recommended dosage based on your child’s age and weight.
• Antiseptic solution: Povidone-iodine (like Betadine) is a good option for cleaning wounds.
• Antibiotic ointment: To prevent infection in minor cuts and scrapes.
• Oral rehydration solution (ORS): Essential for preventing dehydration, especially during bouts of diarrhea or vomiting. ORS should always be prepared in correct dilution.

Basic Supplies

• Band-aids in various sizes
• Gauze pads and rolls
• Adhesive tape
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Thermometer
• Cotton balls and swabs
• Hand sanitizer

Emergency Contact Information

Keep a list of important numbers easily accessible:

• Your paediatrician’s contact information
• Nearest hospital emergency number
• Ambulance service numbers (102/108)
• Poison control helpline number

Common Childhood Injuries and Illnesses

Cuts and Scrapes

Minor cuts and scrapes are a regular part of childhood. Here is how to handle them:

1. Firstly, wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Secondly, gently clean the wound with cool, running water and a mild antiseptic solution.
3. Subsequently, apply antibiotic ointment and cover with a clean bandage.

Burns

Burns can be caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity. For minor burns:

1. Firstly, cool the burn immediately with cool (not cold) running water for at least 10 minutes.
2. Secondly, gently pat the area dry.
3. However, do not apply ice, butter, or any home remedies.
4. If blisters form, do not break them.
5. Seek medical attention if the burn is severe, covers a large area, or is on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.

Fever

Fevers are often a sign of infection. While most fevers are not serious, it’s important to monitor your child closely.

1. Firstly, check their temperature with a reliable thermometer.
2. Secondly, encourage them to rest and drink plenty of fluids.
3. However, avoid overdressing them or making them too warm.
4. If the fever is high, persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your paediatrician.

Choking

Choking is a serious emergency. If your child is choking:

1. Firstly, check if they can cough or speak. If they can, encourage them to cough forcefully.
2. But, if they cannot cough or speak, perform back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) as appropriate for their age.
3. Most importantly, call for emergency medical help immediately.

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are common in children. To stop a nosebleed:

1. Firstly, have your child sit upright and lean forward slightly.
2. Secondly, gently pinch the soft part of their nose just below the bony bridge for about 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, apply a cold compress to their forehead or the back of their neck.
4. If the bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes, seek medical attention.

Insect Bites and Stings

Most insect bites and stings cause only mild discomfort.

1. Firstly, remove the stinger if present (for bee stings).
2. Secondly, wash the area with soap and water.
3. Subsequently, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
4. Moreover, you can use a calamine lotion or baking soda paste to relieve itching.
5. Seek medical attention if your child has a severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat).

When to Seek Professional Medical Help

While first aid can be helpful for minor injuries, it is important to know when to seek professional medical help.

• For example, if your child has a deep cut, a severe burn, or a head injury, take them to the nearest hospital immediately.
• Likewise, if your child is having trouble breathing, chest pain, or severe abdominal pain, seek urgent medical attention.
• Similarly, if you are unsure about how to handle a particular situation, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult a doctor.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best way to take my child’s temperature?

A digital thermometer used rectally (for infants) or orally (for older children) is generally the most accurate. (Note: Always clean thermometer before and after use)

2. How can I prevent my child from choking?

Cut food into small pieces, supervise them while eating, and keep small objects out of reach.

3. What should I do if my child swallows a poisonous substance?

Call the poison control helpline immediately. Keep the container of the substance handy so you can provide information about the ingredients.

4. How can I help my child who is afraid of getting shots?

Be honest with them but avoid scaring them. Distract them with a toy or book. Comfort and praise them afterward.

5. When should I take my child to the emergency room for a fever?

If your child is under 3 months old and has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, seek immediate medical attention.

For older children, seek urgent care if the fever is very high (above 104°F/40°C), lasts for more than a few days, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (like a stiff neck, rash, or difficulty breathing).

Book an appointment: Best Hospital in White Field

Mobile: 8095 37 0000

Telephone: 080 2503 4444, 080 2503 4455

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Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. At Svastha, we’re all about helping you. Let’s walk this path together, one step at a time. Best pediatrician in whitefield.