No matter what we do to protect our children, accidents happen. They fall, scrape their knees and bonk their heads. It’s important for parents and caregivers to know how to handle minor injuries at home. You should always have a few things on hand for emergencies. Here are the items we recommend keeping handy.
Thermometer
If you sense that your child may be getting sick, the most important tool you will have is the thermometer. This will help you determine the severity of the sickness and you can better communicate that to your pediatrician if necessary.
Pain Reducer
From headaches to backaches, a pain reducer medicine is great to have on hand for your child. Most come in pill version, but you can also get liquids or gummies. Always ask your doctor what is safe to administer to your child before you do.
Bandages
This one goes without saying! You should always have bandages on hand for your child (and for yourself!) You will want to have multiple sizes on hand and change them out as needed so the cut or scrape does not get infected.
Ice Packs
Ice packs can help anything from a sore wrist to a bonked head. Keep these in your freezer at all times, so they are ready for your child as soon as they need them. You can also keep plastic bags on hand to fill with ice if you prefer that.
Antibiotic Ointment
Antibiotic ointments (such as Neosporin) help wounds heal by keeping out infection and by keeping the wound clean and moist. Most cuts and scrapes heal without antibiotic ointment, but it is very helpful with larger cuts or stitches.
If your child’s injury or sickness is more serious than what you can handle at home, Pediatric Urgent Care of Northern Colorado is ready to help and treat your child 365 days a year! If you have any questions, please contact us!