Minor bumps, bruises, cuts and scrapes of childhood!

Raising kids with LOVE ♦ August 20, 2013 ♦ Leave a comment

You can’t wrap ’em in bubble wrap…bumps, scrapes, cuts and bruises are part of childhood!

Childhood is usually full of bumps, scrapes, cuts and bruises!  Most of these are minor injuries, but knowing how to take care of the minor injuries and when to call your health care provider is a parental must.  When I see blood on my child, I always have a moment of “Oh No!” it is hard to prevent that initial Mommy reaction.  Keeping yourself calm is important,  your fear is frightening to a child.  So, when you hear that “hurt child cry”, take a deep breath and then respond as calmly as you can.  Knowing what to do brings a sense of calm…so be prepared.

Bruises

Bruises are very common in children, and many times you don’t even know where they come from.  Bruises usually are not serious.  Placing cool compresses on a bump or bruise immediately will help with swelling and pain. Always protect your child’s skin by not placing an ice pack directly on the skin.  Cool wash cloths, ice packs and my favorite, a frozen bag of peas works great!  Bruises below the knees are very common in children, investigate a bit if you are seeing many bruises on other areas of your child’s body.

Scrapes

Skinned knees and elbows just happen, and they do hurt!  I have seen many bloody knees and dirty tear-stained faces after falls on the sidewalk.  Give your little one reassurance and bring them inside for a little TLC.  Rinse the scrapes with clean running water to remove dirt, grime and germs.  Sometimes I found the easiest way to do that is to put them in the bath for a bit and let them calm down and play.  I have even resorted to a Popsicle in the tub so they would relax and let their knees or elbows soak.  Apply a little antibiotic ointment to the scrape and cover with a clean bandage.

Cuts

Cuts often bleed quite a bit.  Put direct pressure on a cut and stop the bleeding so you can take a good look at the injury.  Rinse it clean with running water.  If the cut is not deep, wash it with soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment and cover with a clean bandage.  If the cut gaps open after you pinch it closed or it does not stop bleeding, stitches may be needed.  For severe bleeding continue direct pressure with a clean cloth and call 911.

Wrapping your child in bubble wrap just doesn’t work, so we parents have to learn how to respond calmly to the many minor injuries of childhood, and unfortunately some injuries that could be more severe.  For most of the injuries of childhood, a few extra kisses and hugs, a Popsicle and a favorite bandage will do the trick…along with a deep breath from Mom!

Check back this week for more first aid tips for common childhood injuries!

Take a breath, enjoy the joyful moments of each day, and remember you don’t have to be perfect to be the perfect parent.

Cindy