Kids and Summer Injuries

Summer is the season for cuts, scrapes, and bruises. If you are a parent, these things can be puzzling to deal with. To manage these simple injuries, there are a few things you should do in order to protect your child.

CUTS
Cuts are always a problem, especially when blood is involved. The first concern you should have is to stop the bleeding. You must apply firm pressure on the wound for at least five minutes. Avoid dabbing the cut because a clot needs to form on the area. Pop in a few ice cubes into the cloth you are using. This will help reduce pain and close blood vessels. Once you have the bleeding under control, wash dirt and germs away with cool water. Warm water tends to open the blood vessels back up. Use a very small amount of antibiotic ointment before applying a bandage. If the bleeding can't be stopped, visit the nearest ER. A doctor may also need to be seen if the cut is over an inch long, serrated, or if the cut is extremely deep, exposing the underlying tissues.

SCRAPES
Scrapes happen almost daily when it comes to kids. Always use an antibiotic ointment to protect the exposed layer of skin. However, leave the bandage off. You may notice the scrape starting to discharge. This is a sign that everything is healing. Do not constantly clean the wound. Once the dark red scab forms, do not apply anymore ointment. There are instances when a scrape needs medical attention. If the injury has any foreign materials embedded, see a doctor right away. It is also best to get your child checked out if there is any redness, blistering, or swelling.

BRUISES
Bruises are not too complicated to care for. Most bruises can be treated at home. However, any kind of bump or bruise on the head can cause parents to panic. Always apply ice to help minimize swelling. Keep the ice on for at least two hours. This is always tricky to do with a child, try to leave the ice on in increments of 15 minutes. If the injury is on the leg or arm, elevate the limb to reduce swelling. Head injuries need to be looked after for at least 3 days. Concussions can occur within this time frame. Symptoms include vomiting, extreme headaches, nausea, and unusual sleep patterns. Any severe bruise on the genitals or abdomen should be evaluated for internal injuries.

Children are prone to injuries. Summer is the best season for these injuries because kids spend more time outdoors. Most wounds can be cared for properly by parents. However, you should always be aware of any changes in the physical appearance of a cut, scrape, or bruise. Also, listen to your child. If the pain is unbearable, there could be an underlying problem.