Whether you have boys or girls, the occasional playground scrape is pretty much unavoidable. Kids who run and play are bound to fall and get hurt on occasion. In light of this, it is in everyone's best interest if you learn how to deal with playground cuts and scrapes before your child gets one. Here's what you need to do.
1. Rinse the Area
Anytime your child opens his or her skin, dirt and bacteria is able to get inside. Gently clean the area by rinsing it under cool water. This will help flush any germs out.
2. Stop the Bleeding
If the scrape is bleeding very badly, hold a clean cloth or bandage against the scrape until the bleeding slows and stops.
3. Check for Debris
Once you are able to look at the scrape, do a quick check to make sure that nothing is stuck in it, such as a glass fragment, pebble or splinter. If you see anything, use running water or tweezers to remove the debris.
4. Apply an Antibiotic
If the scrape is very deep, you may want to apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, to the area to help discourage infection and encourage healing.
5. Bandage the Area
Once the area is cleaned and treated, apply a clean bandage that is large enough to cover area. If it is still bleeding heavily, you may want to use a piece of gauze as well.
6. Change the Bandage Regularly
Hopefully, the scrape will heal quickly, making the bandage unnecessary. If the area is still bleeding or if you need to protect the area from dirt and germs, however, replace the bandage regularly. If the area is beginning to heal and won't be at risk for infection, you may choose instead to leave the bandage off for a while. The access to oxygen will help the scrape heal faster.
Scrapes can be painful and frightening for children, but thankfully they are easy to treat. Use these six steps - along with a kiss! - and your child will feel better in no time!