All children get a series of cuts and bruises as they grow and learn about their world. We hope they will be of the minor sort where the pain is reduced by a gentle kiss and sympathy. Some escapades require more attention, like a sticking plaster or ice pack to help with the pain.

If the accident involves broken skin you may need to apply a sticking plaster. Skin needs to be clean and dry for the adhesive to work. If possible (without causing too much pain and the associated wriggling) thoroughly flush and clean the affected area with water. Dry and apply an antiseptic cream if necessary, then cover with a plaster. Generally you should change the plaster daily or if it becomes wet or dirty. Some plasters (usually applied by medical professionals or receommended by chemists) are designed to stay on for several days.

Sticking plasters come in different materials, shapes and sizes – you can even cut your own from a long strip! Most people tend to choose plasters by personal preference and experience, even having a range of different options in the drawer. Here is a run down of the common choices and functions.

• The sticky bits are made from fabric or plastic materials. They are either flesh coloured, clear, bright coloured or have popular cartoon characters printed on them (great for ‘make believe’ cuts and grazes!).
• The effectiveness of adhesive varies – sometimes you may want a less sticky plaster (for a slight graze, just until it heals over) or a really sticky plaster (for dad when he cuts himself sawing up logs).
• Some plasters contain zinc in the adhesive, which can cause a skin rash reaction. Generally the more zinc the more aggressive the adhesion. Some plasters have a hypoallergenic acrylic based adhesion or reduced zinc content for those that react to zinc.
• The packaging of some products contain latex which may cause irritation.
• Waterproof or water resistant plasters are very flexible and stay stuck when they get wet or during exercise.
• Many plasters have little holes punched in them to let the wound breathe.
• The sterile pads that cover the wound are non-stick and absorbent.
• If the wound is too big for a conventional plaster, you can use 'ouchless' non stick absorbent pads. Use a light adhesive tape and a length of tubi-grip or crepe bandage to hold the pad in place.
• The idea is to get a good seal around the pad to keep out dirt and germs.
• ‘Advanced healing’ plasters are available which should be left on for several days. They act like an instant scab whilst keeping out dirt and germs. Remember that these are not suitable for infected or puncture wounds.
• Special blister plasters with a soft gel cushion protect rubbed skin against the formation of blisters, or if it’s too late can help heal existing blisters. These are super-sticky and waterproof and can be worn for several days if required.

If a wound looks angry or deep or you're just not comfortable treating it at home, don't hesitate to contact your local doctor's surgery to get it seen to. Often nurses can assess and dress wounds without too much of a wait. If you have access to an After Hours surgery that may be a good option, or alternatively a trip to Accident and Emergency may be required. It's a good idea to take a couple of books and a favourite toy for your child to cuddle while they're waiting and being treated.

In the event of a serious accident it’s good to be prepared. Your Plunket ‘Thriving Under Five’ book has lots of information on child safety, including how to deal with airway obstruction, resuscitation and some basic First Aid. You should have a First Aid kit in your house and car. You can make your own or buy one from the supermarket or chemist. 

CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) is an emergency procedure in which the heart and lungs are made to work by manually compressing the chest over the heart and forcing air into the lungs. Many Parents Centres offer CPR courses – if you’re interested contact them via www.parentscentre.org.nz. The Red Cross run excellent First Aid courses – check out www.redcross.org.nz.for more details. We just hope the worst that happens is a minor ‘ouch’ you can gently kiss better.

Proudly Partnering with Parents Centre

Add Tile: