Geisinger pediatrician wants parents to arm themselves

A well-stocked first-aid kit contains the arsenal parents need for minor health issues

June 19, 2009, DANVILLE – A Geisinger expert recommends that all parents should compile comprehensive first-aid kits to keep at home and in the car.

“While your child should be seen in an emergent situation by a medical professional, many issues can be resolved at home,” said Paul Bellino, M.D., director of Geisinger’s Pediatric Hospitalist Program. “Arming yourself with a well-rounded first-aid kit will put you, the parent, in control of any health events that may occur.”

Dr. Bellino lists the essentials for your kits: thermometers (rectal and/or digital ear), sterile gauze, adhesive tape, cotton swabs, adhesive bandage strips in various sizes, an Ace bandage, sharp scissors, liquid soap, antibiotic cream, antiseptic solution, hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion, acetaminophen and ibuprofen, tweezers, disposable instant cold packs, disposable gloves, alcohol wipes, eye wash solution/dressing, a flashlight, antihistamine, activated charcoal, emergency telephone numbers (i.e. poison control, physicians, fire department) and a small bottle of water.

While it is more convenient to pick up a prepackaged first-aid kit, Dr. Bellino would like to see parents build their own to ensure all the essential components are on-hand. And a kit for the car ensures that you have the necessary tools to treat your child on every trip you make, whether to the store or to the Shore.

“Injury or illness – from a minor scrape caused by a parking lot fall to a boardwalk splinter while on vacation – are likely to occur when on the road,” said Dr. Bellino. “It’s best to be prepared, and proactive, when it comes to your child’s health.”

About Geisinger Health System
Founded in 1915, Geisinger Health System (Danville, PA) is one of the nation’s largest integrated health services organizations.  Serving more than two million residents throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania, the physician-led organization is at the forefront of the country's rapidly emerging electronic health records movement. Geisinger is comprised of two medical center campuses, three hospitals, a 740-member group practice, a not-for-profit health insurance company and the Henry Hood Center for Health Research—dedicated to creating innovative new models for patient care, satisfaction and clinical outcomes. For more information, visit www.geisinger.org.