Baby First Aid: Essential Tips for New Parents
Parenthood is a wonderful experience and the beginning of a new journey. However, parenthood also brings with it certain responsibilities. A baby must be cared for, and Baby First Aid is essential for the parents to be aware of. The first aid care provided to a baby differs from that of an adult, so parents need to be aware of it.
Newborns are susceptible to certain illnesses and injuries. Emergencies can arise at any time, which is why it is highly recommended for new parents to undertake a First Aid course which will equip them with the proper knowledge and skills required to provide proper care to a baby in case of an injury or illness.
With that being stated, there are certain emergencies which a baby is prone to and being cognizant of these essential First Aid tips will help you greatly in being prepared to deal with them. The Essential care tips have been stated below:
Common Illnesses for Babies
Choking
If the baby is able to cough and cry, that means its airway is not completely blocked. You should call 911 immediately if you find that the baby is choking and begin to provide care.
- Sit or kneel the baby face down along your forearm, holding the jaw in your hand but keeping the mouth clear and deliver five firm back blows with your wrist.
- If the object does not come out, flip the baby face up while ensuring you support its head.
- Place two fingers in the middle of its chest and deliver 5 firm chest compressions.
- Repeat alternating between the two until the object comes out or the baby begins to breathe normally or cry.
- If the baby becomes unresponsive, immediately begin CPR, starting with chest compressions.
CPR for Babies
It is important to point out again that the CPR procedure is different for babies than the one for adults.
- Do 30 chest compressions with two fingers in the centre of the baby’s chest and push deeply and steadily, allowing the chest to recoil between compressions.
- Open the airway and place the barrier device over the baby’s mouth and nose, then deliver two breaths with just enough air to make the chest start to rise.
- If both breaths go in, repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.
Fever
Fever is a common illness that affects babies. It is easy to recognize its symptoms. If you feel that the baby is hot, is crying and seems to be in pain, they might have a fever. In case of a fever, use a rectal thermometer for infants to record the baby’s temperature. Consult with a healthcare professional immediately if the temperature is too high.
Poisoning
Poisoning is broadly categorzied under four heads, namely, swallowed poison, absorbed poison, injected poison and inhaled poison. Bites and stings by bugs and insects may cause poisoning to the baby. Ensure that you keep household cleaners, medications and other toxic substances out of reach of the infant so that the baby does not consume any poisonous substance. It is a common myth that you should induce vomiting in a person who has ingested poison which is not correct. Call 911 immediately if you suspect that the baby has poisoning.
Seizure
If the baby is having a seizure, lay the baby down on a soft surface and ensure that the baby’s mouth is clear. Do not put anything inside the baby’s mouth and be sure to record the time when the seizure started. If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call 911 immediately.
Common Injuries for Babies
Burns
Ensure that the baby is not within reach of any flammable substances, stoves or any potential object that may cause a burn. In case of a burn, run cool water (not cold) over the burn for at least 10 minutes and then cover the burn with a clean and nonstick dressing.
Cuts and Scrapes
Keep the baby away from any sharp objects that might cause cuts or scrapes. Clean the wound with mild soap and water. After cleaning the wound, apply antibiotic ointment and then cover the wound with a clean bandage.
Shocks from Electrical Outlets
Shocks from electrical outlets are a danger to your baby. That is why it is very important to ensure that the outlets in your home are properly covered and baby-proofed so that the baby does not come into contact with them accidentally. If you find the baby in contact with an open electrical outlet, immediately turn off the power main for that outlet to break the contact between the outlet and the baby. Insulate the baby immediately and monitor the baby’s circulation. If anything seems abnormal, call 911 immediately.
Recommended First Aid Training for Parents
Different types of First Aid and CPR training and certifications are available to be undertaken. A parent can consider going for Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C if they want to receive an official WSIB-approved certificate from the Canadian Red Cross. It equips them with all the skills and information regarding First Aid and care procedures required to deal with a medical emergency.
A workshop might be the way to go if they just want general information and are not particular about having an official certificate. We offer workshops specific to First Aid for babies and baby emergency preparedness. However, it is important to point out that workshops are only offered for private training and they must have a group of eight or more participants.
Be a Super Parent
If a parent is still questioning if they should get trained in First Aid and CPR, being properly trained in First Aid can make all the difference needed to save their child’s life in case of an emergency. As the adage goes, prevention is better than cure. By being vigilant and aware of their surroundings, parents can easily prevent many injuries and illnesses that may affect their babies and their families.
We hope that these essential tips will come in handy when caring for a baby. Enroll with us today for a First Aid Course and be fully equipped to deal with any emergency that may arise. You can enhance your baby’s safety by being trained and aware of the proper methods of First Aid to be followed in cases of various injuries and illnesses.
Why Trust Coast2Coast
Elevate your preparedness for unexpected situations and arm yourself with vital life-saving skills by considering enrollment in standard First Aid training at Coast2Coast. This training will give you the knowledge and skills to respond quickly to emergencies. The acquired expertise enhances your personal safety and contributes significantly to creating a secure environment for both yourself and those in your immediate surroundings. Taking the initiative to enroll in first aid training is a proactive step toward being well-equipped and confident in facing unforeseen challenges, ensuring a safer and more prepared community.
