Crossroads Community Hospital recently issued the following announcement.
As your child returns to school this year, ensuring their health is even more important than making sure their backpack is ready for the classroom.
Annual check-ups and up-to-date immunizations are critical tools for your child’s well-being. They give physicians and parents and guardians a chance to address health concerns, check on developmental progress and protect against disease.
“Physicals are an important part of your child’s wellness checks,” says Ryan Lane, PA. “As children grown up, physicals can help catch an underlying condition before engaging in rigorous sports.”
As you consider your child’s health needs in preparation for the school year, there are several questions to consider:
- Has my child had their physical?
Annual physicals are one of the best ways to make sure your child is – and stays – healthy. If your child hasn’t had a check-up in the past year, try to schedule one before school starts. If they play sports, check with a doctor to see if a separate sports physical is needed.
- What immunization requirements does my child’s school have?
All states have vaccination requirements for children in school. Check with your child’s school to make sure they are up to date on any required vaccines.
- What questions do I have for my child’s physician?
Do you or your child have any nagging health concerns? Questions about how to stay healthy this school year? Now’s a good time to bring them up. Make a list of your questions beforehand, so you don’t forget once you’re at the appointment.
- Should my child get the COVID-19 vaccine?
It’s a question many parents have as schools resume in-person classes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that anyone 12 or older get a vaccine to protect against COVID-19. Vaccines are effective for this age group. If you have questions about your child getting the vaccine, consult with their doctor.
For cuts, sprains and mild injuries:
Minor cuts can be treated in a few simple steps. After washing your hands with soap and water, wash the wound with cool water to remove any debris. Spread a dab of antibiotic ointment over the wound and cover it with a bandage. If debris remains lodged in the wound or the wound becomes swollen, red, or increasingly painful, it’s time to see a doctor.
Try the RICE method to reduce swelling for sprains or strains.
- Rest as much as possible directly after the injury.
- Ice the area for 20 minutes every two to three hours for the first two days following the injury.
- Compress the injury with an elastic wrap, splint, or another compression method.
- Elevate the injured area to decrease swelling.
For more serious injuries:
Despite even the best precautions, serious injuries can happen. Seek immediate medical attention at your nearest emergency room for conditions like fractures, dislocations, concussions, or severe pain. Some injuries, like concussions, aren’t always obvious at first. If your child is experiencing headaches, blurry vision, dizziness or confusion after a sports injury, they may have a concussion and should seek medical attention.
Addressing your child’s health and well-being prepares them to be the best they can be in school, sports and life. As a new school year begins, make sure your child is healthy by scheduling an annual check-up and addressing any health concerns you have.
For help choosing a primary care provider, information about our services or to schedule an appointment, call Crossroads Family Medicine at 618-244-6222.
Original source can be found here.
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