Are you prepared for life's little accidents ?

 

Life, especially life with kids, can be full of little accidents. Fortunately, most accidents are minor, but it's still important to know what to do and to do it right away.

Here is a quick overview of the first aid that will help you handle a few of the many household emergencies that could occur. Remember, if you think you need professional help, call your doctor right away.
POISONING
1. Identify the type of poison by checking the container.
2. Call your local Poison Control Center immediately (look on the inside cover of your phone book for your local number). Describe the poison and follow their instructions.
3. Never administer water, milk or other liquids, or induce vomiting, unless you have specific instructions to do so.


 

BURNS
For minor first-degree burns, like sunburn, apply a cool wet compress or immerse in cool water until the pain subsides. A nonprescription body lotion or baking soda in a cool bath can soothe the burn. Don't use butter. Your doctor can help you to determine what type of burn you have and what you should do next.

 


CUTS AND ABRASIONS
Cuts and scrapes are an inevitable result of a childs life. For minor abrasions and cuts of less than one-half inch in length:
1. Apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze for up to five minutes to stop the bleeding.
2. Clean the wound with cool water and antibacterial soap.
3. Apply antibacterial ointment.
4. Cover the wound with sterile gauze. Replace the gauze daily for two to five days.

 


SPRAINS AND STRAINS
Sprains and strains are injuries to ligaments and muscles. The best therapy is RICE - Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation:
Rest - Give your workout program a break until the injury heals.
Ice - Apply ice for 20 minutes every four to six hours for two or three days.
Compression - Wrap the injured area with an "Ace" bandage.
Elevate - Keep the injured area elevated to reduce swelling.

A nonprescription, non-aspirin pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease the pain. Some sprains may require further care. Your doctor can help you decide if you need further attention.

 


 

SETTING UP A FIRST-AID KIT

We all need a little first aid attention sometime. It's a good idea to put as much thought into preparing a first-aid kit as you do in maintaining your family's health. When setting up a first-aid kit, make sure your kit contains these essentials. Remember to always place your first-aid kit out of the reach of children:

acetaminophen(Tyenol)   eyewash and cup
activated charcoal first-aid manual
adhesive tape gauze pads
antiseptic cream hydrocortisone cream
antiseptic towelettes instant ice compress
aspirin (for adults) rubber gloves
bandages (various types & sizes)  scissors
calamine lotion thermometer
cotton balls triangular bandage (for use as a sling) 
cotton swabs tweezers
elastic Ace bandages your doctor's phone number

SOURCE: Highmark, Blue Cross/Blue Shield

 


Greater Beneficial Union
4254 Clairton Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA  15227-3394
1-800-765-4GBU or (412) 884-5100

Fax:  (412) 884-9815
E-mail: info@gbu.org

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This page was last updated on Monday, January 7, 2002