First Aid Tips For Babysitters
Babysitters take on a lot of responsibility, and parents rely on them to do the right thing in case of an emergency. In some cases, a medical emergency may require action on the part of the babysitter while waiting for help to arrive and, in other cases, simple problems can be effectively dealt with by a babysitter who is well prepared.
Make the Right Decisions
The American Red Cross has a process of decision making that it feels applies very well to babysitters. It is called the FIND method of reacting to a crisis, and following it can help a babysitter make the right decisions in critical times. The 'F' signifies you "figuring out" what the problem is, the 'I' stands for "identifying" any potential remedies, the 'N' urges you to "name pros and cons" to the remedies you are considering, and the 'D' signifies you making a "decision" on which plan you will implement. By taking a rational and organized thought approach to a crisis situation, a babysitter is better equipped to make a good decision.
Burns
One of the most common first-aid situations that arises for babysitters is burns, either to the child or babysitter. The first reaction for any burn should be to run cold water over the burn area for at least 10 minutes. If the burn area is larger than tennis-ball size, then you should call for help. Contact the parents first, and then ask the parents if you should call an ambulance. If there is clothing fused into the burn area, leave it where it is. Burnt clothing is sterile, and removing it from the burn area can cause tremendous pain. Let a doctor remove it. Do not cover the burn with adhesive bandages, and do not touch blisters that may form.
Prevention
There are a few steps you can take to prevent accidents from happening once the parents leave. Keep sharp objects away from the children, and discourage any sudden, loud noises that can startle children. For example, if one of the children is shooting off a cap gun but it is causing the other children to run scared, then take the gun away. Discourage excessive running through the house, and do not allow children to walk or run through the house with utensils, plates or cups in their hands. Discourage younger children from playing with toys that are rated for older ages, and do not allow children to throw objects at each other.
Make the Right Decisions
The American Red Cross has a process of decision making that it feels applies very well to babysitters. It is called the FIND method of reacting to a crisis, and following it can help a babysitter make the right decisions in critical times. The 'F' signifies you "figuring out" what the problem is, the 'I' stands for "identifying" any potential remedies, the 'N' urges you to "name pros and cons" to the remedies you are considering, and the 'D' signifies you making a "decision" on which plan you will implement. By taking a rational and organized thought approach to a crisis situation, a babysitter is better equipped to make a good decision.
Burns
One of the most common first-aid situations that arises for babysitters is burns, either to the child or babysitter. The first reaction for any burn should be to run cold water over the burn area for at least 10 minutes. If the burn area is larger than tennis-ball size, then you should call for help. Contact the parents first, and then ask the parents if you should call an ambulance. If there is clothing fused into the burn area, leave it where it is. Burnt clothing is sterile, and removing it from the burn area can cause tremendous pain. Let a doctor remove it. Do not cover the burn with adhesive bandages, and do not touch blisters that may form.
Prevention
There are a few steps you can take to prevent accidents from happening once the parents leave. Keep sharp objects away from the children, and discourage any sudden, loud noises that can startle children. For example, if one of the children is shooting off a cap gun but it is causing the other children to run scared, then take the gun away. Discourage excessive running through the house, and do not allow children to walk or run through the house with utensils, plates or cups in their hands. Discourage younger children from playing with toys that are rated for older ages, and do not allow children to throw objects at each other.
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Videos
Safety Zone: Babysitting Safety
References
http://www.ehow.com/way_5252097_first-aid-tips-babysitters.html
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