When an emergency comes along, the more you know the better prepared you will be…

When you consider that a little knowledge can go a long way to saving the life of your precious little child it’s definitely taking some time out to familiarise yourself with one or two things.

Choking

If you child is showing signs of their breathing being obstructed, their face is turning blue or they’re trying to cry but making no noise then it may be your child is choking. Lay your child face down with their head along your forearm whilst supporting both the head and shoulders on your hand. Now give 5 slaps to the upper part of your little ones back. Follow this by using one of your fingers to try and clear any blockages from your childs mouth. If this fails to clear the blockage turn your child over and place two fingers on the lower part of their breastbone (just below the level of their nipples), and thrust upwards at intervals of three seconds until 5 thrusts have been expelled.

If at this point the blockage is still not clear then you should repeat the process twice more. If there is still no signs of recovery – take your child with you and call an ambulance.

The video below may prove useful in demonstrating how to deal with choking.

Meningitis

The symptoms of Meningitis include, fever, sickness, loss of appetite, a tense fontanelle, pain in the eyes caused by light, stiffness in the neck, a red rash (or possibly purple spots), and convulsions. It is essential that if you think the symptoms are surmountable to Meningitis that you call for your doctor immediately.

Heavy bleeding

If for some reason your child is suffering from heavy bleeding then the action you would take is similar to that which would be taken to treat an adult. Firstly you will need to press down firmly on the wound to stop the bleeding whilst trying to keep the wound about the heart of your child. If this doesn’t stop the bleeding then you should lay your child on the ground, raising their legs to about 40-50 degrees. Now is your time to call for an ambulance. Ensure you stay at the side of your child at all times and check that clothing is loosened. Throughout this time make sure your child is kept warm.

Fitting

Symptoms of fitting are that your baby may be very hot, rolling their eyes, arched back, turning blue and clenching their fists. What you need to do is as follows; Undress your child down to their nappy and pad the area around them to protect them from harm. Make sure that cool air can pass over the child by either using a fan or opening a window (not too cold though). When the convulsions stop, place junior on his side whilst keeping his head tilted back. Cover him with a sheet and call your doctor or local medical centre.

For further help

click below to see the an A-Z guide of child health. It may prove useful during those worrying times.

Author: SuperDads

We’re here to make a difference. Superdads not only offers advice but we are her e to promote the importance of fatherhood. Many people are oblivious to the fact that Dads really do matter and this is something we’d like to put right.

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