Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye—especially when children are involved. From scraped knees and minor burns to choking or fevers, parents are often the first responders in a household emergency. Being prepared with first aid knowledge can make a critical difference in how quickly and effectively you respond to your child’s needs.
Whether you live in a high-rise flat in Singapore or a landed home in Malaysia, equipping yourself with basic first aid skills is a must. Here’s a comprehensive guide to first aid basics every parent should know.
1. Set Up a Family First Aid Kit
Every home should have a well-stocked first aid kit in an accessible (but child-proof) location. Include:
- Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
- Sterile gauze and adhesive tape
- Antiseptic wipes and antiseptic cream
- Tweezers and scissors
- Digital thermometer
- Cold packs
- Gloves (non-latex)
- Oral rehydration salts
- Pain relievers and fever reducers (age-appropriate)
- A first aid manual or quick reference guide
Check the kit regularly to replace expired items and keep it ready for use.
2. Treating Cuts and Scrapes
Minor cuts and scrapes are part of growing up. To treat them:
- Wash your hands before touching the wound.
- Rinse the wound gently with water to remove dirt.
- Apply antiseptic to prevent infection.
- Cover with a sterile bandage.
- Change the bandage daily or if it gets wet or dirty.
Seek medical attention if the cut is deep, bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, or signs of infection (swelling, redness, pus) appear.
3. Managing Burns and Scalds
Burns are common in kitchens and bathrooms, especially with hot liquids. If your child gets a burn:
- Immediately cool the burn under running water for at least 10–20 minutes.
- Do not apply ice, toothpaste, or butter.
- Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick dressing.
- For more serious burns (blistering, deep, or on the face or genitals), seek immediate medical care.
Prevention tip: Keep hot items out of reach and turn pot handles inward when cooking.
4. What to Do If Your Child Is Choking
Choking is a medical emergency. If your child is choking but still coughing or making sounds, encourage them to continue coughing.
If they cannot breathe, cry, or speak:
- For infants under 1: Perform 5 back blows, followed by 5 chest thrusts.
- For children over 1: Give 5 back blows, then 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).
Always call for emergency help if the object does not come out quickly.
5. Handling Fevers and Illness
Fever is the body’s natural response to infection. You can manage a mild fever at home:
- Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Keep your child lightly clothed.
- Use fever-reducing medication like paracetamol or ibuprofen (dosage based on age/weight).
- Monitor their activity and responsiveness.
See a doctor if the fever lasts more than 2–3 days, is above 39.5°C, or if your child has seizures, difficulty breathing, or is unusually drowsy.
6. Dealing with Bumps and Head Injuries
For minor bumps:
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Let your child rest and observe for symptoms.
Seek medical help if your child:
- Vomits more than once
- Loses consciousness
- Seems confused or lethargic
- Complains of severe headache or dizziness
These could be signs of a concussion.
7. Insect Bites and Stings
Most insect bites cause minor swelling or itching. You can:
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold pack and antihistamine cream.
- Monitor for allergic reactions like swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
If an allergic reaction is suspected, seek immediate medical help.
8. CPR Basics (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR can save lives in emergencies like drowning, choking, or cardiac arrest. All parents should consider taking a certified CPR course. As a basic rule:
- For infants and children, give 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths, and repeat.
- Call for emergency help immediately and continue CPR until help arrives or the child responds.
Courses are available through hospitals and organisations like the Red Cross in both Malaysia and Singapore.
9. Poisoning and Household Hazards
Children are naturally curious and may ingest harmful substances. If poisoning is suspected:
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Call your local poison control centre or emergency hotline immediately.
- Keep household cleaners, medications, and small objects out of reach.
10. Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child
In any emergency, your calm response can make a big difference. Speak gently, offer reassurance, and avoid showing panic. Children take emotional cues from their parents, so staying composed helps them feel safe.
Being prepared with first aid knowledge empowers parents to act confidently during unexpected situations. It’s not just about having a kit—it’s about knowing what to do when your child needs you most.
Whether it’s a scraped knee at the playground or a fever in the middle of the night, your response matters. Consider enrolling in a family first aid course, and keep resources handy so you’re always ready to care for your child with knowledge, speed, and love.
