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Caring for Common Skin Injuries
First Aid for Cuts, Scrapes and Bruises
By Charlene Torkelson
In today's world, it is always best to use the universal precautions when dealing with open wounds and blood. There is always the chance a child might be carrying bacterial infections that could be transmitted through their discharge to someone else. Bertelson recommends having one child pass a tissue to another child in the case of a bloody nose for example, so each child is blotting his own blood. Children as well as adults should use precautionary measures when around others. Learning health tips is wise for everyone.
The AAFP brochure suggests applying gentle pressure to stop bleeding. If the cut is on an arm or leg, raise the limb above the heart to slow the bleeding. Remember, certain areas of the body such as the face, head and mouth have more blood vessels and may bleed more heavily.
Adults as well as children should take CPR and safety courses to learn what to do in medical emergencies. My three children took a safety camp provided by the police and fire fighters in our neighborhood. They learned safety tips for medical emergencies as well as water and fire safety. And it was fun. Check out possibilities for safety classes through your community, scouting programs or YMCA. Scouting programs not only offer first aid kits in their shops and catalogs, but also badges in first aid and kit preparation. These classes help a child – and an adult – feel more confident in any medical situation.
