First Aid Kit 101: Guide To Treating Your Kid's Cuts & Bruises

Playing games is a normal behavior for kids. According to development psychologist Lev Vygotski (via globalpost.com.), play is the leading source of development for preschoolers.

Because it is normal for kids to play, mishaps are likely to happen. These mishaps can and will likely include cuts and bruises. According to Parents.com, Diane Madfes, M.D., a New York City board certified dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology, said treating them right the first time hastens healing.

Are you ready to treat your kid's boo-boos? Here are some tips for you taken from Parents.com.

CUTS

Wash

Wash hands before treating cuts.

Apply pressure

Bleeding usually stops quickly on minor cuts and scrapes. If it keeps bleeding, apply direct pressure using a sterile gauze pad or clean cloth until the bleeding stops.

Clean the cut

According to Dr. Madfes, removing debris such as grass or gravel or sand should be done by rinsing the cut under cool running water.

Danelle Fisher, M.D., vice chair of Pediatrics at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California, advises against using hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or alcohol as they can disrupt the healing process.

Ointment and Cover

Dr. Madfes advises putting a thin layer of ointment (petroleum jelly) on the wound area to help prevent infection and also to keep the area moist.

Alan Meltzer, M.D., director of the division of general pediatrics at Goryeb Children’s Hospital, in Morristown, New Jersey, advises putting a bandage over the cut and changing it when needed for the first three to four days after the injury.

Once a scab forms, the wound can then be exposed to the air. However, it's important to leave the scab alone until the wound fully heals.

Remember to call for help when the cut is large or deep, is caused by an animal bite, and is near sensitive areas.

BRUISES

Use ice

“Ice helps decrease the inflammation from the injury and helps relieve pain by numbing the area,” said Dr. Fisher.

Elevate

Lift the bruise higher than the heart if possible. Doing so minimizes swelling by preventing blood from accumulating in the bruised area.

Rest and Relax

Don't allow the kid to overwork the bruised area. If pain occurs, acetaminophen will help.

Avoid UV rays

UV rays can slow down healing, so cover the bruise with clothing or bandage when going outside.

Ask for medical help when the bruise is unexplained and is not from an injury; doesn't fade after two weeks; and is the result of a traumatic event like falling down from the stairs.