Kids have special health care needs. They can’t always take the same medications that adults can and when they can they require a different dose. That’s why it’s important to read the label carefully and choose the proper dose based on your child’s age and weight. Measure out the dose carefully using the proper dosing device. Always use a dosing device marked with the appropriate units. Don’t forget to close any medicine tightly after use and store in a locked cabinet for safety. Remember to throw out any medicine that has expired.
How Can I Check My Child’s Temperature?
What’s the first thing you do when your child isn’t feeling well? Most parents bring out the thermometer. A fever is often an indication that your child is fighting off an infection. In some cases, a fever isn’t a sign of a serious illness but it’s a good idea to contact your pediatrician if your child is younger than 3 months of age or if they have a fever that lasts for more than 24 hours. Other symptoms your doctor should know about include a high fever (40 C or greater), repeated vomiting or diarrhea, seizures, rash, a bulging skull, headache and dehydration. You should also contact your child’s pediatrician right away if they have other health problems and develop a fever.
Digital Forehead Thermometers
There are a number of ways to measure a child’s temperature. One of the easiest is a digital forehead thermometer. It’s simple to use. Place the forehead thermometer onto your finger and lightly rub your child’s forehead with it. The thermometer can give an accurate temperature reading in only six seconds. With this thermometer you can take a child’s temperature while they sleep. The thermometer comes with complete instructions on how to use it. It even remembers the last temperature reading.
Temporal Thermometers
Scanner temporal thermometers are another way to take your child’s temperature while they sleep. To use this thermometer, gently stroke your child’s forehead while holding down a button on the thermometer. As you scan, the thermometer measures the amount of heat released from the temporal artery, a blood vessel that runs through the forehead. The thermometer beeps and a red light comes on to let you know you’ve scanned correctly. Some hospitals use this method to measure a child’s temperature.
Ear Thermometers
One of the fastest ways to get a temperature reading is with an instant read digital ear thermometer. This handy thermometer measures temperature inside the ear and can deliver an accurate reading within seconds. It also has the capability of remembering up to ten previous temperature readings. It’s ideal for children and adults can use it too.
A Thermometer Comparison
In all children, a rectal temperature is the most accurate. Mouth temperatures are also reliable when taken in children who are at least 4 years old. However, forehead and ear temperatures may be easier to measure and can be reliable when taken properly. Whatever type of thermometer you choose, be sure you know how to use it correctly to get the most accurate reading. Be sure to keep and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for any thermometer.
Keeping Your Child Healthy
Keep your medicine and First – Aid – Cabinet well stocked with the essentials your doctor recommends to help your children feel better when they’re sick. You can choose from a variety of accessories including humidifiers, potty training aids, vaporizers, teething devices, pacifiers and thermometers. If your child is ill, talk to their doctor before giving any medications – just to be safe.
Children’s Vitamins and Supplements at Gardenia
Children’s bodies are growing and changing. That’s why they need a constant source of nutrients, vitamins and minerals to fuel that growth. Children need minerals and vitamins for building strong bones, for healthy cells, for immune health and for the function of all the organs in the body. Their bodies can’t make them so they must get them from diet or supplements.
Can All Kids Meet Their Nutritional Needs Through Diet?
Not all children eat a balanced diet. Some kids are finicky eaters and don’t like the taste of vitamin and mineral-rich foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Kids that refuse to eat certain foods run the risk of nutritional deficiencies. These deficiencies can interfere with their growth and development. Some kids eat a diet that restricts particular foods due to food allergies. Some eat a vegetarian diet. Children that eat diets that lack certain foods may be at greater risk for nutritional deficiencies.
What benefits does a multivitamin offer? Multivitamins for children for children provide vitamins and minerals kids need and may be missing from their diet. They help to fill in dietary “gaps.” Some multivitamin and mineral supplements for kids contain higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals. For example, some are formulated with added vitamin C. Vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system. A healthy immune system helps kids fight off colds and viruses. Some contain probiotics, gut-friendly bacteria that support intestinal and immune health.
Nutritional Support for Infants
During a child’s early months of life, the brain is rapidly developing, building the framework that will be carried throughout life. A nutrient called DHA is vital for building a healthy brain and for vision. Some research shows kids that get more of this nutrient during infancy have higher scores on tests that measure intelligence although more research is needed. The best natural source of DHA is fish.
Infants that are breast-fed and those that are born prematurely are at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. Infant formula is enriched with vitamin D and breastfed babies may not get formula. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants that don’t drink at least a liter of infant formula each day need supplemental vitamin D. They also recommend that infants born prematurely get supplemental vitamin D and calcium. If you have a baby born prematurely, talk to your baby’s doctor about this.
Choosing Vitamins for Infants and Children
For children, vitamins come in a variety of forms. You can choose from great-tasting chewable tablets or gummy bears in flavors kids love. If your child has food allergies or sensitivities, look for one that’s free of soy, nuts, milk, eggs, wheat or peanuts and is naturally-flavored. Infant supplements are available as a liquid you can drop directly into their mouth or mix with breast milk, juice or formula.
Before choosing a multivitamin or supplement for your child, talk to your pediatrician. He or she can make recommendations based on your child’s age and health history.
This summary is intended for general informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of purity, strength, or safety of the products. As a result, effects may vary. You should read product labels. In addition, if you are taking medications, herbs, or other supplements you should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking a supplement as supplements may interact with other medications, herbs, and nutritional products. If you have a medical condition, including if you are pregnant or nursing, you should speak to your physician before taking a supplement. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience side effects.
