Children are naturally curious and energetic, but they can be clumsy because they’re still learning how to control their bodies. Accidents are inevitable, and kids fall all the time. Good thing their bodies are resilient—most times, they can just shrug and laugh it off. However, there are many instances wherein their falls are no longer a laughing matter.
Many kids of all ages take visits to urgent care and emergency rooms each year because of falls. Infants and toddlers are especially vulnerable to injuries because their bodies are still developing and more delicate. With that said, if your child falls and hurts themselves, what should you do, and when should you visit the doctor? Let’s discuss that in this article.
What Should You Do If Your Child Falls?
Kids’ bodies are resilient, and they can brush off multiple falls like they’re nothing. Most times, they trip or slip, then they get back up and run again. In these cases, they’re most likely fine and do not need help. However, if they hurt themselves, begin crying, or have trouble getting back up, you should check for any injuries.
In any case, it’s best to remain as calm as possible. Never panic, as children can sense this and begin panicking themselves. By keeping your cool as you check for injuries, you’ll be easing their fears and pain.
Children can fall even if you just look away for a split second. If you didn’t see the fall, it’s best to ask them where it hurts. That way, you can check for injuries in that area. However, if the child cannot communicate it yet, look out for cuts, scrapes, bruises, or bumps, especially on their heads.
Some Basic First Aid Tips
- You can apply an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes for any bumps and bruises to relieve pain and swelling. Because a child’s skin is sensitive, use a towel or other piece of clothing between the ice pack and their skin.
- If your child has any cuts or scrapes, clean the area with soap and clean, running water. Apply pressure with a bandage for five to ten minutes if there is bleeding.
- Let the child rest for a few hours and regularly monitor them. Comfort them as needed.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Although most falls in children are minor and aren’t cause for concern, they sometimes bring injuries to the head, neck, spine, and other parts of the body. Contact urgent care for kids if your child is experiencing any of these signs and symptoms:
- Unusual tiredness and sleepiness
- Vomiting more than once
- Confusion, disorientation, clumsiness more than usual
- Weakness or lack of energy
- Unusual irritability
- Minor cuts that need stitches or have hard-to-remove debris
- Small fractures in the limbs
Seek emergency care if they experience these signs and symptoms:
- Worsening symptoms mentioned above
- Non-stop crying
- Lack of response
- Multiple fractures or ones with the bones sticking out of the skin
- Broken bones in the head, face, neck, ribs, back, or hips
- Severe pain in the head, neck, or back
- Weakness, tingling, or inability to move a body part
- Large, extremely painful wounds
- Skull deformity
- Memory loss
The Takeaway
Children fall all the time, so it’s best to know what to do if your kid falls. It helps to understand when they can heal on their own or if they need urgent or emergency medical care. Keep this guide in mind as you ensure the health and safety of your child!
Looking for an urgent care clinic in Orlando, FL? If so, Your Kid’s Urgent Care is here to help. We’ll provide your child with quality pediatric services, and we also offer telemedicine to check up on them right at the comfort of your home. Contact us and book an appointment today.
