Sick Children Need Extra TLC

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 911 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 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.

If you feel like something is wrong but you just don't know what it is, then by all means trust your instincts and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Very rarely are parental instincts wrong.

Finally, remember that the head bleeds a lot, so any injury on the head, they may gush for a few minutes, but it will more than likely stop and they will be fine. Vomiting children must drink. They can drink anything, but they must keep hydrated. Drinking through a straw is the best, this encourages sipping, and keeping the liquid at room temp is best for the upset stomach. Ginger ale is especially effective as it has not only the water and sugar to hydrate, but ginger is known for its calming effects on the stomach as well. And sick children must rest, so don't try to cure them with over the counter meds that just make them feel better. Allowing a child to feel run down or have a fever, helps them to get the rest they need to make a speedy recovery.

Whenever your child gets sick, just keep your head clear and think about the situation. If you keep these things in mind, then you'll be able to help the situation along more effectively while avoiding any unnecessary panic that can accompany having a sick or injured child.

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