Dealing With A Sick Child

Contributed by Carol Ann

Parents experience many emotional roller coaster rides as they raise their children, but one of the most stressful times is when they have to deal with a sick child. It is a helpless feeling in many ways because you often know there's not much you can do for them to ease their pain. If your child has suddenly become ill and you can't diagnose it, then get to a doctor right away. Obviously if it is a life threatening situation, then call the emergency number in your country with no hesitation.

If it is not a life or death crisis, then take a second to breathe and think. Most of the time our initial reaction to our child becoming ill or injured is to rush into action. This is fine if you are going to stop them from bleeding, or start CPR to keep them breathing.

However, when your child is ill you must think clearly. Many times a watch and wait approach is the best one. Initially, when a child becomes sick or injured, they may react as if they are dying; however, this will usually calm down within a few minutes and then you can just monitor them closely. Make note of their behaviors, eating, sleeping, and breathing. These will more than likely clue you in to whether or not you need to get them to a doctor.

No matter what, though, you should always trust your instincts. Parental instincts are rarely wrong. In those cases, do what you need to do and seek medical advice right away.

The head is a part of the body that tends to bleed a lot, so head injuries are likely to bleed freely for a few minutes before they stop. If the child is vomiting, it is important to keep him hydrated, so give him plenty of liquids, sippable through a straw if possible. Ginger ale can be an effective drink because of the calming effects on the stomach that the ginger provides.

It is important to remember to keep a clear head when your child gets sick. That way there will be no panic and the child will feel more comfortable too. And by all means, don't forget to follow your instincts.

Parents are always interested in enhancing their (http://www.parentinginformed.com) parenting skills. If you are seeking advice on children, check out www.ParentingInformed.com, the Internet's most expansive selection of child resources available, from kids art to (http://www.parentinginformed.com/listings/home-schooling) homeschooling. You'll be happy you did.

Got a big belly? Please visit Big-Belly.info before it's too late.

Sphere: Related Content

No comments: