FIRST AID FOR CUTS & WOUNDS IN CHILDREN

No matter how careful a parent is, a child will always fall and get some cuts and bruises along the way in childhood. Parental instinct will tell you when you need to go to the doctor or hospital, but here’s how to deal with some of the minor cuts and wounds.

It is very distressing for children to hurt themselves, especially when there is broken skin and blood involved. The younger the child, the more upset they will be, so it is important to keep calm and comfort your child, and let them know that you’ll help them and fix the problem.

Explain to them what you are doing with each step of the first aid, and why you’re doing it. If there is any bleeding, tell your child you need to apply a little pressure with a clean cloth or bandage for a few minutes to stop the bleeding. Wash your hands thoroughly before doing this.

Wash the cut area well with soap and water, but do not scrub the wound. Remove any dirt particles from the area and let the water from the tap run over it for several minutes. A dirty cut or scrape that is not thoroughly cleaned can cause scarring.

• Apply an antiseptic lotion or cream.

• Cover the area with an adhesive bandage or gauze pad. Change the dressing often.

• Check the area each day and keep it clean and dry.

• Avoid blowing on the abrasion, as this can cause germs to grow.