Injuries:  Abrasions, Cuts/Lacerations, Falls 

This is the season of outdoor activities which means the number of injuries increases significantly.  Maintaining outdoor equipment in proper working order and wearing appropriate safety gear will help to reduce injuries. Treatment for the most common injuries is as follows:

Abrasions:  These result in injury to the top layer of the skin.

Treatment:  Cleanse with an antibacterial soap, apply antibiotic ointment and observe for signs of infection: increased redness, tenderness, swelling or discharge at the site.

Cuts or Lacerations: These are generally deeper, more irregular wounds.  Depending on the wound these may require sutures.

Treatment:   If the wound won't stop bleeding after pressure is applied or if the wound is gaping (like a buttonhole) it is recommended to seek treatment at an emergency department for possible suture closure. 

Falls:  These accidents can result in the above injuries and also could include fractures and serious head injury.

        Fractures:  If your child has sustained a fall or trauma and is unable to move an extremity, has limited range of motion, bruising, swelling or point tenderness at the site of the injury, they should be seen at an emergency department for radiographic evaluation of the injury.

        Head Injury:  If your child has sustained a fall or blow to the head it is important to assess for signs of serious head injury.  These include:

            - loss of consciousness.  

            -  persistent headache or vomiting (greater than two times)

            -  clumsiness or inability to move a body part

            -  abnormal speech or behavior

            -  oozing of blood or fluid from ears and or nose

            -  convulsions

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms following a head injury call 911 or seek treatment at an emergency department.

If your child has none of the above symptoms, apply ice to the injured area and observe for the above signs of a more serious head injury.  It is not unusual to see a lump form over the injured area.  This is normal and could last for several days.