New parents strive to do everything possible to protect their babies. Yet it sometimes can be tough to know exactly how to administer baby first aid.
When it comes to baby first aid, there is plenty to consider. Now, let’s take a look at 10 first aid tips for new parents.
- Learn First Aid and CPR
Enroll in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes to learn how to think and act quickly and remain calm in emergencies.
- Prepare a First Aid Kit
A first aid kit should include antihistamines, mild liquid soap and other emergency essentials that are appropriate for babies. Also, prepare multiple first aid kits and place them in different locations around the home.
- Know How to Stop Choking
If an infant starts choking, administer five firm back blows between the shoulder blades, then turn the baby over and perform 5 chest thrusts by placing two fingers in the middle of the baby’s chest. Repeats this over and over until the item comes out or the baby goes limp. If the baby goes limp, perform infant CPR. You will learn to practice this skill in the infant CPR class that you attend.
- Cool Off Burns
If a baby suffers burns, cool the burns under cold running water for 10 minutes. If the burn is large or severe, remove any burnt clothing and call 911 before doing anything else.
- Monitor Your Child After A Head Injury.
If your baby suffers a head injury, call 911 or take them to the hospital if the following occurs: the blow to the head was significant, the baby becomes drowsy or starts vomiting, or you believe the baby is acting abnormally.
- Stop Nosebleeds
In the event of a nosebleed, pinch the soft part of a baby’s nose for about 10 minutes. If the nosebleed continues, call 911.
- Lower the Temperature of a Fever
An infant who displays hot, flushed skin and is sweating may be experiencing a fever. Remove the infant’s excess clothes and check the baby’s temperature. If a fever is confirmed, contact your pediatrician.
- Clean Wounds Properly
To treat wounds, a parent first should wash his or her hands with soap and water. Next, apply antibacterial ointment to the wound and cover the affected area with a bandage.
- Manage Insect Bites
Apply a cold compress or rub an ice cube on a baby’s insect bite for a few seconds to reduce swelling and pain.
- NEVER Leave Your Baby Unattended
It only takes a second for an emergency to happen. Therefore, a parent should NEVER leave his or her baby unattended.
Use these tips, and a new parent can reduce a baby’s risks.
