Kids abound with energy, sometimes though, kids’ curiosity gets them in a sticky situation. There are a few common reasons for kids’ ER visits. Here are some of a common accidents we see and tips for how to prevent them as well as what to do if an accident does happen.
Swallowing Foreign Objects
That bright toy or shiny coin might look yummy to a youngster. Parents are well educated about choking hazards and keeping chemicals out of reach, but accidents still happen. Put cleaning supplies and other liquid-like substances out of reach even in places kids don’t normally visit, like the garage or master bathroom.
If you suspect a child has ingested something, stay calm. You want to keep the child calm and comfortable to talk about what they ate/drank and how much. Call poison control for instructions on what to do next. Depending on what the child ingested, you might not want to induce vomiting or give them water. Call 1-800-222-1222 or go to poison control’s website for instructions.
Skin Disorders
The skin is the body’s largest organ. This amazing, protective regenerating organ encounters hazards daily. Everything from burns to diaper rash to hives can affect the skin. Most of these can be treated at home, but sever skin outbreaks and burns might need a doctor’s help.
Sever sunburns can result in burns. Make sure kids have sunblock when outside, even if the day doesn’t feel hot. Burns from hot objects should be treated with cool water, not ice, oil or any other food substance. Run cool water over the burn for 5 to 10 minutes. Serious burns are white and waxy or dark brown and may have a raised leathery texture. These burns need immediate medical attention. Call 911 and follow their instructions.
If you’re unsure about how to treat a skin outbreak or how to reduce the severity of something, bring the child in for a visit at America’s ER. Open 24-7, America’s ER is available to help even when your primary care might not be available.
Broken Bones and Sprains
Photo by Rick McCharles.
Sometimes, being a kid means accidents and injures. Sports and just everyday play can result in a sprain or, more severely, a broken bone. Kids need to play to be healthy, so you can’t completely prevent these injuries. Injures are more common when a motion is done repeatedly and a muscle group or bone suffers repeated impacts. Varying the type of exercise can decrease the instance of sprains and tears.
Luckily, kid’s bones are fairly resistant to breaks and their bones heal quickly. If you think a child has broken something, take them to the emergency room immediately. Broken bones can be scary and painful, so stay calm and confident. If you don’t know where to go, America’s ER is always open and ready to take care of youngsters.
