Home FIRST AID GUIDE

I am aware that the parent of a toddler needs to know about first aid. But I'm just not prepared. Please advise.— Lipika Hashim, Mumbai

- DR. CHIRANTH R

Toddlers are naturally curious, and small burns and cuts will happen despite our best precautions. Most are manageable at home. Here's what you need to do:

Minor burns (small, affecting only the outer layer of skin). Act immediately by running cool — not ice-cold — tap water over the burn for 20 minutes. This is your most important first aid step and is effective even if done three hours after the injury. Thereafter, pat the burn area dry gently and let it air dry or cover loosely with a clean cloth. Avoid applying ice, oil-based ointments, or honey directly on skin. Antibiotic ointment can be used. Simple pain relief medication (if your pediatrician recommends) also helps. Over the next few days if the burn is merely red and mildly uncomfortable, it will heal. Minor burns typically heal without scars.

Small cuts with minor bleeding (shallow cuts from falls or minor scrapes). Clean the wound with cool running water and mild soap, then rinse thoroughly. If there's bleeding, apply gentle, steady pressure with a clean cloth or gauze for five-ten minutes. Once bleeding stops, tie a simple bandage to avoid your child picking at it. Most small cuts don't need antibiotic ointment.

When to see a doctor. Seek immediate professional medical care if the burn is larger than quarter-inch, involves blistering, is red and very painful, or is on the face, hands, or joints. For cuts, consult a doctor if there's deep bleeding that doesn't stop after ten minutes; if edges are jagged and gaping, or if you're unsure of how deep the cut is. Also watch out for signs of infection over the next days: redness spreading beyond the original injury, pus or yellow discharge; swelling that worsens after day two, warmth around the wound, or your child developing fever. Any of these symptoms warrant a medical checkup.