Bumps and scratches are almost inevitable during the summer months
With the summer holidays in full swing, many parents will be making the most of the summer before children return to nursery, play group or school.
If your children are like most of their peers, they are probably chasing each other around the garden using up all their energy. With all that energy and excitement, there’s one thing that’s inevitable – a few cuts and scratches along the way. So it’s best to be prepared for such upsets should they happen.
It’s not uncommon for children to have bumps and falls while playing at home. Most accidents are minor and can be treated at home with a first aid kit and lots of hugs. But have you checked what’s in your first aid kit recently?
Dr Jim Hacking, a local GP, said: “Self-care is often best for cuts, scrapes and grazes. With all the minor accidents that happen over the summer months, it’s a good idea to make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked up.
“There’s nothing worse than discovering you’ve run out of plasters! Your local pharmacy can advise you on treatment for minor injuries and over the counter medicines that are safe for your child.”
“A typical first aid kit should include antiseptic wipes to clean cuts before they are dressed. Plasters will help to keep the area dry and protected but make sure you have sterile dressing for larger injuries too. This will help to prevent infection until treatment can be given by a health professional, in the rare instances that is needed.
“Keep a good stock of elasticated bandages to help support a sprained wrist. Cooling gel packs or flannels dipped in cold water are good to use as a compress, as well as an eye-wash solution that can help to wash out grit or dirt from the eyes.
“If your little ones are still in pain, you can also give them paracetamol or ibuprofen, as advised by your pharmacist.
“If you are worried that the injury or illness may be more serious and you are not
confident that you can treat it yourself, help can be just a phone call away. If it’s urgent
but not an emergency simply call NHS111 and trained staff will tell you the best course of
action based on your symptoms and services open in the area.
“NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week – all you have to do is dial
111.”
www.nhs.uk can also advise about how best to treat cuts and grazes at home