As much as we don’t like to think about it, our little ones are bound to hurt themselves at some stage. Whether it’s a small bump or something more serious, it’s a good idea to have a fully stocked first aid kit and the knowledge to use it.
Common Injuries for Infants and Kids
As soon as our children can move, they can injure themselves. Little falls and bumped elbows are par for the course. When we’re lucky, a plaster and a cuddle will do the trick. Sometimes it takes just a bit more care - and that’s where a good first aid kit can make all the difference.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common injuries and how to treat them:
Cuts and scrapes
If there is bleeding, hold a clean cloth over the abrasion for 15 minutes or until the bleeding has stopped. Rinse the site with lukewarm water - and soap if there is dirt in the wound - then pat dry. Cover with an Elastoplast Antibacterial Plaster.
Burns
Hold the burned area under cool, running water, immediately. Make sure any small blisters are covered with a loose Elastoplast’s Crepe Bandage or plaster. Do not pop or otherwise damage the area. Anti-biotic cream can be applied to ease healing.
Nosebleeds
Do not tilt your child’s head back. Have them lean forward while you pinch their nostrils closed continuously, for five to 10 minutes, while the bleeding stops. If the nosebleed is a result of trauma, an ice pack against the bridge of the nose may assist with swelling reduction.
Splinters
Apply warm water and soap to flush out the abrasion. If the splinter remains, use a sterilised pair of tweezers to remove it. Do not rush or you may push it in further or leave some of the splinter behind. After a day or so, it may come out by itself. In this case, a plaster for protection in the meantime is the best course of action.
Bites and stings
Remaining stingers from insects can be removed with a finger nail or similar. Using tweezers should be avoided, as they can release more venom into the site. An Elastoplast Sport Hot/Cold Pack, followed by a topical cream, such as calamine lotion, will ease swelling and itching.
First Aid Kit Essentials
To treat all common injuries from accidents and illness, your first aid kit should contain the following basics:
- A child/infant thermometer
- Tweezers and small scissors
- Hot/Cold Pack
- Rubbing alcohol to sterilise equipment
- Kids pain relief medication
- Antihistamines for allergies
- Calamine lotion
- Antibacterial cream
- Gauze for dressing wounds
- Adhesive tape
- A selection of bandaids, including Elastoplast Kids Plasters
- Cotton swabs
- Small, clean cloths
- Disposable, sterile gloves
- Child sunscreen and insect repellant
- Hand sanitiser
- Distilled water
- First aid instructions in case emergency measures are required
- A list of emergency contact numbers
Have you considered training in simple first aid? Knowing how to treat injuries means that you will be faster and more effective in the case of an emergency.
Always see your doctor if the wound is deep, bleeding or shows signs of infection like reddening, swelling or warmth.
Also make sure to seek medical help if you are not able to clean the wound properly.
In case you have diabetes a proper wound care is of special importance. Always discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor and/or podiatrist, even for the care of minor wounds and skin cracks – especially on your feet.
Please note that none of the above given tips or recommendations substitute medical advice. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products‘ packages. Important: consult a health professional in case of any uncertainty of treating your wound properly.
The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care or advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, you should consult your doctor. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it, because of something you have read on this website.
For further information regarding Elastoplast products, please contact us via email on anz.consumerservices@beiersdorf.com. Carefully read the instructions for use given in our products' packages.