10 first aid skills every parent should have

There are an estimated two million children under the age of 15 who are taken to an accident and emergency department in the UK every year after sustaining an injury at home. The NHS website also says that many more are treated at home or by their GP. With that in mind it’s crucial parents have mastered a range of basic first aid skills.

1. Keeping a medical kit at home

Every home should have an emergency medical kit available. You never know when an accident may happen. Keeping one handy and easily accessible may help if the need arises. Brosch Direct supply a wide range of medical equipment for the home and if you keep the kit in one place you’ll always know where to find it.

2. Recovery position

The Mirror website explains how you could save your child’s life by simply putting them in a safe position if they are being sick or have passed out. You have to ensure the legs are straight and they are lying on their side with one arm behind them and the other stretched out in front of them.

3. Stopping bleeding

From nose bleeds to deep cuts it’s important that you try and stop the bleeding as soon as possible. Remove any dirt from the wound and then press some gauze or a bandage onto it, applying as much pressure as possible.

4. Bites and stings

Although insect bites and stings in the UK are not normally life threatening, they should still be treated as soon as possible. Most of these can be soothed by simply placing a cold damp cloth on the affected area. If it continues to swell then you should visit a nurse or doctor.

5. Choking

Children are great at putting objects in their mouths so knowing the correct way to prevent choking is important. You should try dislodging the blockage by striking the child on the back with the palm of your hand. If this doesn’t work then try using abdominal thrusts.

6. Burns and scalds

If your child receives a minor burn or scald, it can be treated by running cool water over the affected area for approximately 15 minutes. You should then dry it off and cover with a sterile bandage. For major burns you should visit a hospital.

7. Shock

People can go into shock for many reasons and it can be life threatening. If you suspect someone has suffered from this you should keep them warm and elevate their feet and prevent them from choking.

8. Poisoning

The best way to prevent poisoning is to make sure they aren’t left lying around, but if your child does ingest something toxic you should discover what they have swallowed and contact a doctor.

9. Sprains

For a general sprain all you can do is place an icepack on the affected area and rest it. If it is a leg sprain it’s best to keep it elevated and then wrap it in an elastic bandage.

10. Cuts and abrasions

Children are always falling over and grazing their legs and arms. The best way to treat these is to wash away any dirt with saline solution and then cover with a plaster.