When it comes to babies, nothing can be scarier than facing an emergency
situation or injury. New and veteran parents alike – as well as child caregivers
– will attest to the fact that nothing keeps them up at night more than
imagining themselves in a situation where they are unable to help their injured
child. But getting control of this fear can simply mean the assembly of a
comprehensive first aid kit for babies. Knowing that you have the tools
necessary to respond to most situations can alleviate an enormous amount of
stress.
Much like the standard first aid kit that most people keep in their homes,
cars, and offices, a first aid kit for babies contains a number of generally
essential items. Added to this are particular items that are specific to the
care of babies. Many stores – as part of their packaging and marketing to
parents – assemble and sell a first aid kit for babies. While these can include
a number of pertinent items, it is often best to put together your own kit that
you know contains the items with which you feel comfortable.
A first aid kit for babies should be kept at home, in a diaper bag that
travels with you, and in all your vehicles. This may seem like over-preparedness
but it is absolutely essential to knowing you have what you need when you need
it.
Included in a first aid kit for babies should be phone numbers for your
pediatrician, poison control, your pharmacy, and your health insurance carrier –
as well as all pertinent health insurance information.
Additionally, any first aid kit for babies should have a rectal and oral
thermometer included in it. The rectal thermometer gives the most accurate
temperature reading but an oral thermometer can be used with older children.
Also include children’s pain reliever and fever reducer, small bandages, alcohol
or other antiseptic for cleaning wounds, antibacterial wipes and cream, Syrup of
Ipecac, an extra supply of any medications your child takes on a regular basis,
and sunscreen.
Of course this is only a general list; the advantage to assembling your own
first aid kit for babies is that you can include those things that are specific
to your child and that you find to be the most important.
A first aid kit for babies will not only bring comfort to an injured or
un-well child, but it will bring you unlimited comfort as well, knowing that you
are as prepared as you can be for any situation that arises.
