Toddler runs into sharp edge of dvd case?

(March 12, 2010)

Trying to prevent a toddler from getting hurt or getting bruised and scraped can be a very hard task. Some of the key necessities is to make the home or play area where the toddler spends time as child proof safe as possible. Sharp corners should be covered or the object re located so as not to be a baby hazard. Close off all plug points and elevate all electrical gadgets. In the event of a toddler sustaining an injury due to contact with a sharp surface the first thing to do is for the parent to wash their hands and examine the wound. If the injury is severe and is accompanied by bleeding, then it is necessary to try and stop the bleeding in some way.

At times applying pressure on the wound can help in reducing the pressure. Pressure can be applied either with one’s hands or with a clean bandage or a piece of gauze. If the wound continues to bleed for more than 10 minutes or so then it is essential to take the child to the doctor or the emergency section immediately. Once the bleeding has stopped the next step that the parent or the guardian needs to do is to check the wound for any foreign objects. Check to see if any grass, or dirt or glass etc may have got in. If there is any foreign object in the wound then the injury should be washed out gently with some warm water. If this does not suffice in extricating the particle then a pair of tweezers can be used to gently lift the particle of dirt from the wound.

Next the wound can be rinsed out gently with some soap and warm water. Then gently pat the area dry with a clean towel. If the toddler resists all effort to wash out the wound then just try to soak the wounded area maybe in a bath tub. Avoid blowing on the wound as it can cause germs to enter and further infection to set in. in the case of deeper cuts or scrapes try covering the wound after ensuring that it is clean and dry. Do not tie the bandage too tight as it can cut off the circulation. Change the bandage on a daily basis and ensure that the wound has not got septic or is not showing any signs of inflammation. Once the scab begins to develop ensure that the toddler does not try to pull or pick on it.

Submitted by P T on March 12, 2010 at 01:58