Caring for a sick person at home is always a bit stressful, but when it’s your child, you want to be sure you’re doing everything you can to make them comfortable and aid in their recovery process. With that said, there are some tips and useful equipment/tools that you can have on-hand that will make caring for your sick child much easier. Keeping these in the house for those “just in case” situations is always wise too, so that when illness strikes, you’re ready. Here are four ways to care for a sick child at home.
Carefully Monitor Their Temperature
All kinds of illnesses can leave your child feeling under the weather, but the one symptom you want to stay on top of is their temperature. A fever can point to several different issues, and you also want to be sure that it is managed and doesn’t get too high. Today, you can choose from different styles of thermometers, many of which are quick, accurate and easy to use. A digital contactless thermometer is probably the best one to use, as your child doesn’t even have to be awake for you to quickly check their temperature.
Usually, you can give ibuprofen or acetaminophen to bring down their temperature (depending on their age). If their fever lasts for more than five days, if they appear to be getting worse, are pale or bluish, or have a fever of 39°C or higher (if they are more than three months old), it’s best to make an emergency pediatric appointment.
Waterproof Bedding and Linens Can Be a Huge Help
For a child who is suffering from the flu, waterproof bedding (see it here) and linens can prove to be very helpful as it makes for easier clean-up. You can check with a store that sells nursing home supplies for these types of items. Typically, this type of bedding is easy to wash in the laundry, won’t hold on to stains and odours, and will protect the mattress.
Make Sure the Medicine Cabinet Is Stocked
You also don’t want to wait until your child is sick to realise you need medicine for them. Keeping the basics on hand such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, child antihistamine and anti-diarrhoea medicine (child versions) will prove to be very useful.
Be Careful What You Give Them to Eat and Drink
As for food and drink for your sick child, it will depend on what’s wrong with them. If they have a common cold, you may want to keep things pretty bland and basic and give them whatever they can tolerate. If they are vomiting though, the main goal is to keep them hydrated – don’t worry about food. Stick to clear liquids such as a clear broth or plain water. It’s likely they will only be able to have little sips at a time. Juice and carbonated drinks won’t be wise.
Using these tips will help you to care for your child who is sick, making sure they stay comfortable while they recover. You also have the support of your local GP, hospital or 111 service, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re worried.
Last Updated on June 25, 2023 by Lucy Clarke
