Five Things I Never Do When My Kids Are Sick
1. Let Them Sleep
As a parent, I understand the challenges of caring for a sick child. It can be overwhelming and stressful. When my kids have a fever but are sleeping, I never wake them up for medication. Sleep is crucial for healing and growth, so if they are comfortable and resting, it’s not an emergency that requires immediate medication. Allowing them to rest can boost their immune system and help fight off viruses.
2. Provide Fever Controlling Medication
If my child appears uncomfortable with a fever, I never hesitate to give them fever-controlling medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These medicines are widely used, safe, and effective in promoting comfort. However, if I find myself giving these medicines frequently for more than three days, it’s time to consult a doctor.
3. Look Beyond Temperature
Thermometers may not always provide accurate readings. Instead of panicking over a high number, I assess my child’s overall appearance and behavior. If they seem like themselves, have normal breathing, and are well-hydrated, it’s likely not an emergency, even if the thermometer shows a high temperature. However, if they appear very sick without a fever, medical attention may be necessary.
4. Stick to Honey for Cough Relief
When it comes to coughs, I avoid using cough medications containing codeine or dextromethorphan. These can be harmful, and the American Academy of Pediatrics advises against them. Additionally, multi-ingredient cough syrups increase the risk of medication errors. Instead, I opt for honey or cough syrup with honey as the main ingredient for children older than one year. These alternatives have been proven to be as effective as other medications but with fewer risks.
5. Measure Medicine Accurately
To prevent medication errors, I never measure medicine in teaspoons. Nearly 700,000 children experience medication errors each year, and using teaspoons can contribute to confusion and mistakes. Children’s doses vary by age and weight, making it essential to provide dosing information in milliliters for precision and safety.
Kelly Fradin, MD, a pediatrician and author, shares these insights based on her experience as a parent and medical professional. Follow her advice for effective and safe care for sick kids.
