First Aid for Children: Cuts and Wounds

Kids love to explore and play even in the most dangerous places. Although this is a natural part of growing up, it can also make them especially prone to accidents, which commonly leads to cuts and wounds. If proper care is not given, these cuts and wounds could become infected.

Here are some tips on how best to apply first aid to cuts and wounds:

1. Wash your hands before giving first aid.

2. Do not assume that a minor wound is clean even if you cannot see anything inside. It is best to wash the cut thoroughly with mild soap and water.

3. Apply an antibiotic ointment.

4. Apply a clean bandage or wound dressing.

Most moms make the mistake of using only liquid antiseptics as first aid for wounds. A liquid antiseptic, however merely washes the wound but will still leave it unprotected. Contrary to popular belief, the wound environment should be kept moist to make it heal faster. This is why putting ointments can help shorten the healing process of the skin.

First Aid for Children: How to Give CPR

CPR or Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation is necessary for a person who suddenly becomes unconscious and has stopped breathing.

Rescue breathing or otherwise known as CPR can be performed, likewise, not only on mature or older victims, but it can also apply on kids who fall under the same situation, but the technique somehow differs depending on their age bracket.

Check out this basic guide procedure on CPR. Familiarize yourself with the basic steps on how to administer the procedure before medical help arrives – remember the life of your loved ones may soon depend on you…

For Children 8 Years and Older

1. Top the child’s head back and lift her chin up. If she is not breathing, pinch her nose closed, seal your mouth over hers, and give two breaths. Check for a pulse. If she is not breathing but has pulse, give one breath every five seconds. Check her condition every minute.

2. If there is no sign of breathing or pulse, begin CPR. Perform compressions at a rate of 100 compressions per minute with the heel of one hand on the breastbone and other on top. Position yourself so that your shoulders are directly above your hands, and press down 1 ½ to 2 inches into the chest, giving two breaths after every 15 compressions.

For Children 1 to 8 Years

Tip the child’s head back and lift his chin. If there are no signs of breathing, pinch his nose closed and seal your mouth over his. Give two breaths, and then check for a pulse. If he is not breathing but there is a pulse, continue with rescue breathing.

Stan Tian

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