First Aid Advice for Children

First aid is vitally important knowledge to have. In many situations, it can save an adults life and make sure they are taken care of when they are most vulnerable. Caring for children who have suffered a medical problem is no different in its aim but the way you approach the situation may be different. Children need special care in certain situations and may require even more acute care due to their size and stature. By understating basic first aid advice and applying these principles to children you can ensure that should the worst happen you are prepared. 

General know how

The best way to know how to administer first aid is by completing a standardised course with an instructor who can teach you the proper techniques and ways to deal with those suffering from a medical condition. Learning this information could be as serious as life and death so it is important to complete basic training to have a good base understanding of medical procedures. As always if it is a medical emergency involving a child it is always best to call 000 until help arrives. Till such time remember the acronym DRS ABCD which stands for:

• Dangers?
• Responsive?
• Send for help
• Airway
• Breathing
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR
• Defibrillation

By being trained in resuscitation you can best put these life support steps to use. This should be used if a child has stopped breathing, is unresponsive or has fallen unconscious. 

First aid kit advice

One of the best ways of caring for children who require first aid is having an up to date medical kit. Children are prone to small injuries like cuts to their fingers and grazing their knee, all of which can be treated with an up to date first aid kit. Some materials that should be included in your kit include

• plastic strips, swabs and a thermal blanket
• scissors and tweezers
• antiseptic, bottles of saline eye irrigation solution
• bandages, dressing pads and tape

Much of the difference when treating children comes down to the way you interact with them. Listen to what their pain or discomfort is and then attempt to remedy the problem with the appropriate solution. Taking into consideration their lower pain threshold and weaker frame is important to prevent further injury occurring. By taking these practical steps, you can help protect children who may need your care while also having the latest knowledge and equipment for any adults in need too.