Post by Mrs. Mommy Marlett™ on Mar 18, 2009 12:29:36 GMT -6
Children can frequently become ill or may have accidents at home that could require some medical attention. That’s why it’s important to have some over-the-counter medications and health care items on hand at all times. Here’s what items you should have on hand in your medicine cabinet.
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
Since you shouldn’t give your child aspirin, you should have non-aspirin pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Since these may come in various dosages, make sure to use an age-appropriate dosage for your child.
Anti-Bacterial Scrubs
Because a lot of kids get scrapes and bruises, you should have anti-bacterial scrubs, such as Betadyne, in your medicine cabinet. These are anti-microbial and do not sting as much as alcohol.
Saline
Another thing that's very good to have is saline to irrigate minor cuts and wounds. Our skin naturally has a lot of bacteria on it, so this allows you to sort of clean those wounds out and wash away any dirt and blood.
Anti-Bacterial Ointments
After you clean a wound, apply an anti-bacterial ointment, such as Neosporin or Polysporin to the area. Always use a fresh Q-tip to apply the ointment over the area that’s affected and then toss the Q-tip away. Using your fingers to apply the ointment will contaminate the tube.
Band Aids & Gauze
Don’t forget to have plenty of band aids, gauze and hypo allergenic tape to treat minor cuts and scrapes.
Thermometer
Every home should have a thermometer to use if you suspect your child’s temperature might be running high. Make sure the thermometer is one that you know how to use and how to read.
Sunscreen Lotion
Your skin is your greatest barrier from infection. Help protect your skin by using a sunscreen lotion with an SPF of 15 or over. An SPF of 30 means you can stay in the sun 30 times longer before you burn than if you had no sunscreen on at all. Sunscreen with an SPF 30 should be more than enough for most children. SPF sunscreens over 30 might offer more protection than you’ll need and, if priced higher, a waste of your money.
Insect Repellant
To protect your children from bug bites, use insect repellant. Spray it on your children – don’t allow them to put it on themselves. The most effective bug repellants have DEET. Not everyone recommends DEET, especially with certain children with special needs such as those with seizure disorders.
How-To
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
Since you shouldn’t give your child aspirin, you should have non-aspirin pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Since these may come in various dosages, make sure to use an age-appropriate dosage for your child.
Anti-Bacterial Scrubs
Because a lot of kids get scrapes and bruises, you should have anti-bacterial scrubs, such as Betadyne, in your medicine cabinet. These are anti-microbial and do not sting as much as alcohol.
Saline
Another thing that's very good to have is saline to irrigate minor cuts and wounds. Our skin naturally has a lot of bacteria on it, so this allows you to sort of clean those wounds out and wash away any dirt and blood.
Anti-Bacterial Ointments
After you clean a wound, apply an anti-bacterial ointment, such as Neosporin or Polysporin to the area. Always use a fresh Q-tip to apply the ointment over the area that’s affected and then toss the Q-tip away. Using your fingers to apply the ointment will contaminate the tube.
Band Aids & Gauze
Don’t forget to have plenty of band aids, gauze and hypo allergenic tape to treat minor cuts and scrapes.
Thermometer
Every home should have a thermometer to use if you suspect your child’s temperature might be running high. Make sure the thermometer is one that you know how to use and how to read.
Sunscreen Lotion
Your skin is your greatest barrier from infection. Help protect your skin by using a sunscreen lotion with an SPF of 15 or over. An SPF of 30 means you can stay in the sun 30 times longer before you burn than if you had no sunscreen on at all. Sunscreen with an SPF 30 should be more than enough for most children. SPF sunscreens over 30 might offer more protection than you’ll need and, if priced higher, a waste of your money.
Insect Repellant
To protect your children from bug bites, use insect repellant. Spray it on your children – don’t allow them to put it on themselves. The most effective bug repellants have DEET. Not everyone recommends DEET, especially with certain children with special needs such as those with seizure disorders.
