Most children receive one or more injuries that require a simple first aid procedure from parents. Occasionally, a bruise or bump requires a trip to a hospital, or even a call to paramedics for emergency assistance. It is a good idea for parents and babysitters to recognize the signs of an injury immediately to provide the correct treatment. Taking a first aid class offered at a local fire station or community college may help to save a child’s life.
When Does a Child Need Stitches?
There are several ways that a child can experience a cut or laceration on their face or body that begins to bleed profusely. A small amount of blood often looks like an enormous amount, but the fluid is designed to wash away pathogens to prevent infection. Apply pressure to the wound before washing it to inspect how deep the cut is. When a cut is deep enough to see underlying tissue or continues to bleed, then it is time to visit a physician for stitches.
Is it a Sprain or Broken Bone?
Knowing the difference between a sprain injury and a broken bone is vital for parents. Sprains are the result of a twisted ligament and primarily occur in the ankles, knees or wrists. A sprain is painful, leading to swelling of tissue for several days. Alternatively, a broken bone can occur inside the body or jut through the skin. Broken bones require fast medical attention, especially when the skin is torn and exposing the bone.
How to Care for a Burn
When a child has a mild burn, it causes pain along with inflamed skin that may blister. This type of burn is simple to treat with a cold compress before applying a protective bandage. However, serious burns are ones that cover a large amount of the child’s face or body, requiring immediate professional medical care. A deep burn that travels through the upper protective layer of skin is another type of injury that requires paramedics.
How Do You Diagnose Head Injuries?
Head injuries or concussions are should always be considered serious, as they potentially involve the brain. A simple bump to the head can lead to broken blood vessels in the brain or bruising that leads to damage. Children are often susceptible to brain injuries because their skull has not completely hardened. Symptoms of a head trauma include loss of consciousness, headache and vomiting. A child’s personality might change, or they may become sleepy due to a concussion. A Philadelphia head injury lawyer says childhood head injuries can result in mental and emotional dysfunction, so they should be treated right away (learn more: http://thepearcelawfirm.com/). You cannot afford to take chances with head injuries in kids—being more susceptible to cranial damage, they should be given the best care possible to prevent lasting effects.
How Parents Can Prevent Childhood Injuries
Fortunately, there are protective devices to help prevent concussions and other injuries. Wearing a helmet while riding a bicycle or other riding toy can protect the skull when a child falls and hits their head. Children should wear helmets and protective joint pads while playing sports. Most burns and cuts occur inside a home due to leaving sharp knives or boiling pots of water near children. Use preventative measures in kitchens and bathrooms to avoid scalding injuries from hot running water.