First aid means “emergency treatment administered to an injured or sick person before professional medical care is available.” When you have a child at home, it’s imperative that every parent should know what to do in case of emergencies.

Here are some first aid tips that I’ve learned from my son’s pediatrician and that work for us:

Basic
1. Always have a thermometer ready. You’ll never know when someone in the family will have fever.
2. Make sure you have medicines for common illnesses at home. In Justin’s case, I see to it that he has medicines for fever, colds, cough, allergy, and LBM.
3. Know your doctor’s number. In case of emergencies and you don’t know what to do, it pays to consult an expert for the best course of action to take.

Specific
1. Swelling – Ice helps reduce swelling. Apply ice on the swollen or inflamed part.
2. Vomiting -Ice chips may help prevent nausea and vomiting. We didn’t have ice chips at the time that Justin continuously vomited, but we had ice candy in the freezer. His doctor said that will do.
3. Diarrhea – Aside from drinking plenty of non-carbonated clear liquids, you can give your child bananas or apples and Yakult. Also, refrain from giving him greasy foods and limit his milk intake.

Of course, when things get serious, don’t hesitate bringing the sick or injured person to the hospital.

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