From the Inbox:

“Good morning. My 5yr old fell over in the school yard yesterday and gave himself a good knock on the head.
I was wondering if you could recommend any good resources (online preferably) for childrens first aid. Basic stuff to cover yourself and the child until you can get proper medical attention.”

1. If you are unsure or worried, always err on the side of caution and seek qualified medical advice for your child. Your child relies on you to be their advocate for their health.   I have been hugely critical of late of the unhelpful messaging in the media that deters patients from seeking healthcare when they are ill or injured.
2. It is really important that anyone who cares for a child – childminder, babysitter, parent, grandparent, coach – take a basic first aid course that includes CPR and choking. They are very inexpensive and regularly offered in the community.  A quick Google search or a query in your local parent’s social media group will usually lead to some local upcoming courses.  There are large number of options and some may suit you better (location, cost, time, date, in-person versus online)  Some are available online and even charge per-screen rather than per participant (so family members can take course together)
3. A good resource to keep on your phone for first aid is any of the Red Cross apps. First Aid – IFRC is very well organised. You can download it for free from Apple or Google.

This is also a good time to remind you that it’s not a bad idea to have a home first aid kit, or if you have one, to have a look in it and make sure you have what you need.

For more on head injuries:  If in Doubt, Sit them Out

For more on home first aid kits:  What’s in Your Medicine Cabinet or First Aid Kit?

#headinjury #firstaid #CPR #parenting