Healthcare - Pediatric Center

Swim Safely This Summer!

Jul 24, 2024 | Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips, Summer Safety

Drowning Prevention in Kids: Essential Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death among children, but with vigilance and proper precautions, many of these tragedies can be prevented. At the Pediatric Center, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Here are some essential tips to help prevent drowning and keep your kids safe around water.

Key Takeaways

Constant Supervision: Always keep an eye on your children when they are around water, and designate a responsible adult as a water watcher during gatherings.
Swimming Skills: Enroll your children in swimming lessons early and ensure they learn basic water safety skills.
Life Jackets: Use life jackets for children near natural bodies of water and weaker swimmers in pools.
Barriers and Alarms: Install proper fencing and alarms around home pools to add layers of protection.
CPR Knowledge: Learn CPR and ensure all caregivers are trained to respond to emergencies.
Water Safety Education: Continuously educate your children about the importance of water safety and following rules.

Supervision is Key in Preventing Drowning

Always watch your children when they are near water. This includes bathtubs, swimming pools, ponds, lakes, and even buckets of water. Active supervision means keeping your eyes on your child at all times and avoiding distractions. During gatherings, designate a responsible adult to watch the children in and around water. Rotate this responsibility to ensure continuous supervision.

Educate and Equipment for Drowning Prevention

Teaching your children to swim at an early age can greatly reduce the risk of drowning. Enroll them in swimming lessons as soon as possible, ensuring the instructors are certified. Additionally, use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for children near natural bodies of water like lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Life jackets are also recommended for weaker swimmers in pools.

Creating Safe Swimming Environments

For home pools, installing a fence at least four feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates is essential. Pool covers and alarms can add an extra layer of protection. Make sure your pool is regularly maintained and has a clear view from the house. Remove any toys or floats from the pool area when not in use, as these can attract children.

Before allowing your children to dive or jump into water, always check the depth and ensure it’s safe. Teach them to enter the water feet first to avoid head and neck injuries.

Beyond Pools: Know the Risks

Be cautious with bathtubs and never leave a young child unattended. Even a few inches of water can pose a drowning risk. Use non-slip mats and keep the bathroom door closed when not in use. Other hidden hazards include buckets, toilets, and containers of water. Keep toilet lids closed and store buckets out of reach when not in use.

Emergency Preparedness

Learning CPR can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. Ensure you and other caregivers are trained and certified in CPR, as immediate response can make a critical difference. Establish and practice a family emergency plan for water-related incidents. Ensure everyone knows what to do and who to call for help.

Staying Informed and Vigilant

Talk to your children about water safety and the importance of following rules around water. Make sure they understand the dangers and know what to do in case of an emergency. Stay informed about water safety guidelines and updates from trusted organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: At what age should I start swimming lessons for my child?
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children can start swimming lessons as early as age one. However, the readiness of each child varies, so it’s important to consider their development and comfort level with water.

Q: How can I make my home pool safer?
Install a four-foot fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate around your pool. Consider adding pool alarms and safety covers, and remove toys from the pool area when not in use to prevent children from being tempted to enter the water unsupervised.

Q: Are floaties or inflatable armbands safe for my child?
Floaties and inflatable armbands are not substitutes for life jackets and can provide a false sense of security. It’s best to use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, especially for younger or weaker swimmers.

Q: What should I do if I see a child struggling in the water?
Act immediately. If you are trained in water rescue, help the child out of the water. If not, call for help and try to reach the child with a long object, such as a pool noodle or a pole, without putting yourself at risk.

Q: How can I teach my child about water safety?
Talk to your child about the importance of following water safety rules. Use age-appropriate language and reinforce lessons through practice and positive reinforcement. Swimming lessons often include water safety education as part of the curriculum.

Q: Is it safe to leave my child in the care of a babysitter or relative around water?
Ensure that anyone caring for your child is aware of water safety practices and understands the importance of constant supervision. Provide clear instructions and emergency contact information.

By following these tips and maintaining a proactive approach to water safety, you can significantly reduce the risk of drowning and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for your children. At the Pediatric Center, we are committed to supporting you in keeping your family safe. For more information and resources on water safety, feel free to reach out to our team.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further guidance on drowning prevention, please don’t hesitate to contact the Pediatric Center. We’re here to help you keep your children safe and healthy. The Pediatric Center has extended hours on nights and weekends as well as in-house labs and x-rays, so you can get the help your child needs, when they need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

Fun in the Sun- Summer Safety Tips for Children

Jun 28, 2024 | Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips, Summer Safety

As summer approaches, it’s time for families to enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities. While summer is a season of fun and adventure, it’s essential to prioritize safety to ensure that children have a healthy and injury-free season. At the Pediatric Center, we care deeply about the well-being of your children. Here are some crucial summer safety tips to keep in mind.

1. Sun Protection

The summer sun can be harsh, and protecting your child’s skin is paramount.

Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on your child’s skin 15-30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. For infants under six months, it’s best to avoid direct sun exposure. If unavoidable, apply a small amount of sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to small areas like the face and back of the hands.
Choose Child-Friendly Sunscreen: Look for sunscreens specially formulated for children. These are often free from harmful chemicals and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are excellent choices as they sit on top of the skin and provide a physical barrier against UV rays.
Wear Protective Clothing: Dress your child in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to shield their skin from harmful UV rays. Rash guards are great for additional protection during water activities.
Seek Shade: Encourage your children to play in shaded areas, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Use umbrellas, tents, or canopies to create shade when at the beach or park.
Educate Older Children: Teach older children about the importance of sun protection and how to apply sunscreen themselves. Make it a routine part of their outdoor activities.

2. Hydration

Keeping your child hydrated is crucial, especially during hot summer days.

Encourage Regular Water Intake: Make sure your child drinks water regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can happen quickly in the heat.
Avoid Sugary Drinks: Limit the intake of sugary drinks and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Eat Hydrating Foods: Include water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges in their diet.

3. Water Safety

Whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean, water safety is vital.

Supervise at All Times: Always keep a close eye on children when they are near or in the water. Drowning can occur in just a few minutes and in shallow water.
Learn to Swim: Enroll your child in swimming lessons. Knowing how to swim can be a lifesaving skill.
Use Life Jackets: Ensure children wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when boating or participating in water sports.
Teach Water Rules: Educate your children about the dangers of water, including the importance of not running near pools and not diving in shallow areas.

4. Insect Protection

Summer is prime time for insects, including mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry diseases.

Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to your child’s exposed skin and clothing. Avoid applying repellent to infants younger than two months.
Avoid Peak Insect Hours: Try to avoid outdoor activities during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Check for Ticks: After playing outside, especially in wooded or grassy areas, check your child for ticks. Remove any ticks promptly and carefully.

5. Playground Safety

Playgrounds are a great place for children to burn off energy, but safety is key.

Inspect Playground Equipment: Ensure the equipment is in good condition and that the surfaces are safe and soft, like wood chips or rubber mats.
Dress Appropriately: Remove drawstrings and other cords from clothing that can get caught on equipment.
Follow Playground Rules: Teach children to use equipment properly and to wait their turn to avoid accidents.

6. Heat-Related Illness Prevention

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious risks during the summer months.

Know the Signs: Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, and fainting. Heatstroke symptoms include a high body temperature, hot, dry skin, rapid pulse, and possible unconsciousness.
Take Breaks: Ensure your child takes regular breaks in the shade or indoors to cool down.
Dress Appropriately: Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing helps keep the body cool.

7. Travel Safety

Summer often means road trips and vacations.

Use Car Seats: Ensure that your child is in the appropriate car seat or booster seat for their age, weight, and height.
Never Leave Children in Cars: Never leave your child unattended in a car, even for a short period. Cars can heat up rapidly, leading to heatstroke.
Plan Ahead: Keep snacks, water, and entertainment on hand to make travel more enjoyable and safer.

At the Pediatric Center, we believe that a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable summer for your children. Follow these tips to keep your kids healthy and happy all season long. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact the Pediatric Center. We are here for you and your family when you need us with extended hours on nights and weekends as well as in-house labs and x-rays to help your family get healthy and stay healthy. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. Have a safe and happy summer!

Reach Out and Read!

May 16, 2024 | Education, Healthcare

As parents, we often find ourselves navigating a sea of advice and recommendations on how to give our children the best start in life. Amidst this whirlwind, one timeless practice stands out as both simple and profound: reading to our children from a young age. The importance of this act cannot be overstated, as it serves as a cornerstone for their development and sets the stage for a lifetime of learning and exploration.

Stimulating Imagination and Language Development Through Reading

From the earliest days of infancy, reading to your child holds immense benefits. It stimulates their imagination and lays the groundwork for language development. Even though they may not yet understand the words being spoken, infants benefit from the soothing cadence and rhythm of language, helping them become familiar with its nuances. Remarkably, even the seemingly simple act of handling books contributes to building school readiness in infants.

Reading Together Strengthens Bonds

As children grow, reading together strengthens the bond between parent and child. It provides precious moments of connection and communication, fostering a sense of closeness and security. Through shared stories, parents can open the door to meaningful conversations, encouraging their child’s curiosity about the world around them.

Academic Success and Literacy Skills

Moreover, the benefits extend far beyond the emotional realm. Studies have shown that children who are read to regularly tend to perform better in school and develop stronger literacy skills. Reading stimulates various areas of brain development, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and comprehension. By immersing themselves in stories, children gain exposure to different perspectives and experiences, fostering empathy and social understanding.

Lasting Impact: Reading Helps Foster Skills for Success

Engaging in language-rich interactions with children is pivotal for their overall development, teaching essential skills such as communication, patience, and literacy. These foundational skills form the bedrock for success in academic pursuits and beyond.

Additional positive effects of reading together include:

Better recognition of sounds and letters
Knowledge of a wider range of vocabulary
Increased listening skills
A deeper understanding of how stories work

When we immerse ourselves in reading with our young ones, we embark on a journey of discovery and growth together. Stories serve as portals to new worlds, sparking curiosity and expanding their understanding of the world around them. The warmth of shared reading moments also provides comfort and security, helping children navigate moments of anxiety while instilling a lifelong love for reading.

Empowering Through Reach Out and Read

At The Pediatric Center, we recognize the profound impact that reading can have on a child’s development. That’s why we’ve embraced the Reach Out and Read program, ensuring that every well-child check from 6 months to 5 years includes the gift of a book. We believe that by instilling a love of reading early on, we can empower children to embrace a future filled with endless possibilities.

Cultivating a Culture of Reading

So, whether it’s a beloved bedtime story or a quiet afternoon spent with a picture book, make reading a cherished part of your daily routine. By sharing the magic of storytelling with your child, you’re not just teaching them to read – you’re giving them the gift of a brighter future. Together, let’s nurture young minds and pave the way for a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

If you have any questions about our “Reach Out and Read” program or your child’s health, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we strive to help children and parents with an exceptional healthcare experience. We offer in-house x-rays as well as extended hours on nights and weekends so we can give you the treatment you need, when you need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs!

Keeping Kids Safe and Strong During Sports

Apr 19, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

As children dive into the world of sports, it’s natural for parents and coaches to want to see them excel and enjoy the game. However, ensuring their safety and well-being should always be the top priority. Sports injuries can be not only painful but also have long-term consequences, affecting a child’s ability to participate in their favorite activities. Here are some essential tips for preventing sports injuries in kids:

1. Proper Warm-up and Stretching: Before any physical activity, ensure that kids engage in a thorough warm-up routine. This helps prepare their muscles, tendons, and ligaments for the demands of exercise and reduces the risk of strains and sprains. Incorporating dynamic stretches that mimic the movements of the sport can be particularly beneficial.
2. Focus on Technique: Emphasize the importance of proper technique and form in sports training. Teaching children correct movement patterns not only enhances their performance but also reduces the likelihood of overuse injuries and musculoskeletal imbalances.
3. Use Appropriate Gear: Make sure children wear appropriate protective gear for their sport, such as helmets, pads, and supportive footwear. Properly fitting equipment can help prevent head injuries, fractures, and other traumatic injuries.
4. Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage kids to stay hydrated before, during, and after physical activity. Proper hydration supports optimal muscle function and helps regulate body temperature. Additionally, promote a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel their bodies for peak performance and recovery.
5. Listen to Their Bodies: Teach children to listen to their bodies and recognize the signs of fatigue, pain, or discomfort. Encourage them to speak up if something doesn’t feel right and emphasize the importance of rest and recovery when needed.
6. Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden spikes in training intensity or volume. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of workouts to allow the body to adapt and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Following the 10% rule—where training load is increased by no more than 10% per week—can help prevent overtraining and burnout.
7. Encourage Cross-Training: Encourage children to participate in a variety of sports and activities to promote overall athleticism and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Cross-training engages different muscle groups and movement patterns, helping prevent imbalances and overuse of specific muscles.
8. Promote Rest and Recovery: Ensure that children have adequate rest days built into their training schedule. Rest is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as preventing overuse injuries. Encourage active recovery activities, such as gentle stretching or low-impact exercises, on rest days.
9. Educate Coaches and Parents: Educate coaches and parents about the importance of injury prevention strategies and proper sportsmanship. Emphasize the value of balanced competition and the long-term health benefits of prioritizing safety over winning at all costs.

By implementing these proactive measures, we can create a safer and more enjoyable sports experience for children, allowing them to pursue their athletic passions while minimizing the risk of injury. Let’s empower our young athletes to play hard, play smart, and stay injury-free for years to come.

If you have any questions about sports injuries or any other health issue, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we want to give you and your child the best care you can get. We offer in-house x-rays as well as extended hours on nights and weekends so we can give you the treatment you need, when you need it. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs!

Spring is here and so are allergies!

Mar 25, 2024 | Allergies, Healthcare

Spring has sprung! The arrival of spring brings joy to many, but for some children, it also marks the onset of seasonal allergies. As flowers bloom and trees sprout new leaves, allergens like pollen fill the air, triggering allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Understanding and managing spring allergies in children is crucial for their well-being and enjoyment of the season.

Understanding Spring Allergies

Spring allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen from grass, trees, and flowers. When these allergens enter the body, the immune system perceives them as harmful invaders, leading to the release of histamines and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.

Symptoms of Spring Allergies in Children

Recognizing the signs of spring allergies in children is essential for early intervention. Common symptoms include:

Sneezing
Runny or stuffy nose
Itchy or watery eyes
Nasal congestion
Coughing
Sore throat
Fatigue

Tips for Managing Spring Allergies in Children

Consult with a Pediatrician at the Pediatric Center: If you suspect your child has spring allergies, consult with one of our Pediatric Center pediatricians for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. They can help identify specific allergens triggering your child’s symptoms and suggest appropriate medications or allergy testing if necessary.
Minimize Exposure to Allergens:
- Monitor Pollen Counts: Stay informed about daily pollen forecasts in your area and try to limit outdoor activities on high pollen days.
- Keep Windows Closed: Keep windows and doors closed, especially during peak pollen times like early morning and evening, to prevent pollen from entering your home.
- Use Air Purifiers: Consider using HEPA air purifiers in your child’s bedroom and other frequently used areas to reduce indoor allergens.
- Encourage Indoor Play: It is helpful to stay indoors on windy days because pollen counts are much higher when it is dry and windy! On high pollen days, engage children in indoor activities to minimize exposure to outdoor allergens.
Practice Good Hygiene:
- Encourage Handwashing: Encourage regular handwashing, especially after outdoor activities, to remove pollen and other allergens from the skin.
- Have your child shower before bedtime to remove the pollen from the hair and skin.
- Bathe Pets: If you have pets that spend time outdoors, bathe them frequently to prevent them from bringing pollen indoors.
Nasal Irrigation:
- Saline nose drops or spray can help with seasonal allergies and are available at any drugstore without a prescription. This treatment helps to wash out pollen or to loosen up dried mucus. Put 3 drops in each nostril, blow each nostril out while closing off the other nostril, then repeat on the other side. Repeat nose drops and blowing until the discharge is clear.Use nasal washes when your child can’t breathe through the nose or their nose is very itchy. Saline nose drops can also be made at home. Use ½ teaspoon of table salt, and stir the salt into 1 cup (8 ounces) of warm distilled or boiled water. A warm shower can also be effective to loosen mucus. Have your child breathe in the moist air, then blow each nostril.
Allergy Medications:
- - Allergy medicines are called antihistamines. They are the drug of choice for nasal allergies to help control symptoms such as runny nose, nasal itching, and sneezing.
  - You can give a short-acting allergy over-the-counter medicine such as Benadryl every 6-8 hours.
  - The bedtime dosage is especially important for healing the lining of the nose.The key to controlling allergies is to give allergy medication every day during pollen season. You can also use a long-acting over-the-counter allergy medicine such as Zyrtec. This medicine usually lasts up to 24 hours and may cause less drowsiness than Benadryl.
Allergen Immunotherapy:
- Allergy Shots: In cases of severe allergies that do not respond to medication or other treatments, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended. This treatment involves gradually exposing the child to increasing doses of allergens to desensitize their immune system over time.

Spring allergies can be a source of discomfort for children, but with proper management and support from parents and a Pediatric Center Pediatrician, they can enjoy the season to the fullest. By minimizing exposure to allergens, practicing good hygiene, using appropriate medications, and considering advanced treatments when necessary, parents can help their children thrive despite seasonal allergies. Remember, early intervention and proactive measures are key to managing spring allergies and ensuring a happy and healthy springtime for your child.

If you have any questions about allergies and your child or your child’s symptoms are not better in 2 days after starting an allergy medicine, contact the Pediatric Center for an appointment. At the Pediatric Center, we want to give you and your child the best information and treatment you can get. If your child becomes worse or you are concerned about your child’s health for any reason, please don’t hesitate to call the Pediatric Center. You can contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment. We have a wonderful team of providers available for all of your children’s needs!

HPV-What you need to know

Feb 16, 2024 | Education, Healthcare, Safety, Safety Tips

HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a very common virus that can lead to cancers later in life. HPV is spread through intimate skin-to-skin or sexual contact. It can cause various types of cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, and cancers of tonsils, base of tongue, and back of throat (oropharyngeal cancer), as well as anogenital warts. In the United States, nearly 42 million people are currently infected with HPV, and about 13 million people, including teens, acquire HPV each year. Almost 36,000 individuals are estimated to be affected by HPV-related cancers annually.

Why get vaccinated against HPV?

HPV vaccination can prevent infection with certain types of the virus. This is crucial because HPV infections are incredibly common, and most people will contract at least one type of HPV at some point. While many HPV infections resolve on their own within two years, some can persist and lead to cancers later in life.

Who should get the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine is routinely recommended for adolescents at 11 or 12 years old to ensure protection before potential exposure to the virus. However, it can be administered as early as age 9 and is recommended for everyone through 26 years of age.

How well do HPV vaccines work?

HPV vaccines are highly effective, preventing over 90% of HPV-attributable cancers. Since the vaccine’s introduction in 2006, infections with HPV types that cause most HPV cancers and genital warts have dropped 88% among teen girls and 81% among young adult women. Fewer teens and young adults are getting genital warts. HPV vaccination has also reduced the number of cases of precancers of the cervix in young women.

HPV is a prevalent virus with serious health implications, but vaccination offers a powerful defense against its associated cancers and complications. By ensuring vaccination for eligible individuals, we can reduce the burden of HPV-related diseases and work towards a healthier future for all.

If you have any questions about HPV or the HPV vaccine, contact the Pediatric Center. The Pediatric Center is your resource for information and healthcare treatment for infants, children, and teens in Idaho Falls and Rigby. Contact us at our Idaho Falls location at (208) 523-3060 or our Rigby location (208) 745-8927, to set up your appointment.

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