Fredericksburg
Fall 2007

October 6, 2007

Fredericksburg
Expo Center

Richmond
Spring 2008

February 2, 2008

Southside, Richmond, VA

Fredericksburg
Spring 2008

March 8, 2008

Fredericksburg
Expo Center

Newsletter Winners!

Congratulations to...

• Julie M. of
  Highland Springs
  and Amanda B. of
  Petersburg

...who each received a Satin Hands Set by Mary Kay!

You Could Win!

Two lucky winner will receive American Red Cross On-The-Go First Aid Kits!

July 2007

Summer Safety

Summer is a great time to get outdoors with your kids. There are so many activities, from playing catch to bike riding to a simple game of tag, that can give kids the fresh air and exercise they need. But along with that fresh air often come bug bites, bumps and bruises. So, it is important to know a few things about first aid. You should be able to treat minor injuries on your own, but it is equally important to know when an injury is serious and requires medical attention.

Donna Elkins, Nursing Supervisor at St. Mary’s Hospital has shared some important information, from her personal experience as a pediatric ER nurse, to help you get through the season as healthily and happily as possible.

When to go to the ER immediately:

Head injury:

• lost consciousness
• altered mental status
• vomiting after hitting their head

Under any circumstances:

• fever over 103°

Abrasions, Bruises and Rashes

“Abrasions and bruises really don't need to be assessed in the ER, unless they are extensive, or there is an extremity deformity associated with the bruise or abrasion.” Caring for cuts is a matter of judgment, according to Donna. “If the cut doesn't really separate and is superficial, parents can care for them at home.”

A lot of rashes that children may have don't always warrant a trip to the ER. They can often wait until the next day to see their own doctor. If a rash is associated with a fever, however, then they should be seen by a medical professional more quickly.

Sprain or Fracture?

The ever-dreaded twisted ankle can happen anywhere and anytime. “If a child has twisted an ankle, or arm, and continues to complain for 2-3 days, it's always a good rule of thumb to get an x-ray to rule out a fracture. Swelling can be present if there's just a sprain or strain, so that doesn't always indicate a fracture.”

Advice on Infants

When an infant appears injured, parents are often eager to get them to the ER. In some cases, this is warranted. For example, as Donna points out, “If a child swallows a coin, it's good to bring them in for an x-ray. Some coins get caught in the throat or esophagus, and can cause erosion if not removed. Parents should not assume that it will just pass. Also if a child sticks objects up the nose or in the ear canal, it needs to be removed. This can be a source of infection.” While you don’t always want to be rushing to the hospital, it is obviously better to be on the safe side.

If a child will not take fluids, and has been suffering from diarrhea or vomiting for two days, medical attention is necessary. “Not having a wet diaper all day needs medical attention. Constant crying should also be assessed,” says Donna.

Trust Your Judgment

“Parents know their child better than anyone. If the parent feels that, ‘something's just not right’, then their child should be seen.” Going to their general practitioner is preferred, but doesn't always happen. “The best advice I can give to parents,” Donna shares, “is to call their own MD first, and get his or her opinion. That is what they are there for!” Kids are amazingly resilient, and always ready to get back on the bike, but it is important to know when to get medical advice.