Importance of Supervision

Children may have falls occasionally, but some falls can result in serious injuries. It is important to change babies on the floor to prevent falls from elevated surfaces. Always use safety straps on changing tables and never leave babies unattended. As children become more active, it is essential to make your home safer to minimize the risk of accidents.

Avoid the use of baby walkers as they can lead to severe injuries.

Age One: The Most Injury-Prone Stage

At this age, children are curious and unaware of potential dangers, so teaching them safety measures and closely supervising them is crucial.

During a visit to friends, I accidentally slipped and dropped my baby, causing a frightful moment. Despite the scare, our son was unharmed, as confirmed by a visit to the emergency room. Falls are common among babies, even those who are not yet crawling or walking.

It’s important to childproof your home by securing furniture and using safety gates to prevent falls. Always keep a close eye on your little one, especially during playtime or when they are exploring new environments. Remember, accidents can happen in a split second, so taking precautions is key to keeping your child safe.

What to Look For After a Fall

• Was the baby responsive after the fall?
• Could the baby be calmed down?
• Is the baby showing any unusual behavior or movements?
• Are there any visible signs of injury?
• Has the baby’s condition worsened?

Close monitoring of the baby after a fall is important to detect any signs of a more serious injury.

Emergency Room Visit

Although our son did not require any scans, it is crucial to observe the baby for any abnormal behavior or symptoms following a fall. Avoid unnecessary imaging tests to minimize exposure to radiation.

“Parents may request a CT scan for reassurance, however, it may not always be necessary if other diagnostic methods can rule out significant findings,” Dr. Homme advises. Healthcare providers consider scans in cases of suspected child abuse injuries without directly accusing parents and strive for accuracy through questioning.

In cases where a CT scan is deemed necessary, healthcare providers take necessary precautions to minimize radiation exposure and ensure the safety of the child. It is important for parents to trust the expertise of healthcare professionals and follow their recommendations for the best care of the child.

Why are they asking these questions?

To prevent falls at home, adhere to these general safety guidelines:

• Avoid the use of baby walkers, secure infants in seats, and keep them on the floor.
• Ensure babies are safely restrained on changing tables and use safety gates on stairs.
• Install night lights and be cautious of slippery surfaces.
• Keep babies on the floor for safety and avoid strain while carrying them.

Accidents can happen, but it’s important not to blame oneself. By following these safety guidelines and being vigilant in the home environment, we can help prevent falls and keep our little ones safe.

Preventing falls

In the event of a fall, remain calm and assess the baby. If there is a suspicion of head or neck injury, refrain from moving the baby. If worrying symptoms arise, promptly call 911.

It’s important to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of falls for your baby. Some tips include:

• Always use safety gates at the tops and bottoms of stairs.
• Keep windows closed or install window guards to prevent falls.
• Avoid leaving your baby unattended on high surfaces, such as changing tables or beds.
• Use a properly fitted baby carrier or sling when carrying your baby.
• Secure furniture to the wall to prevent tipping.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can help protect your little one from potential falls and injuries.

Have a little roly poly? Here’s what to do if baby rolls off the bed

If your baby rolls off the bed, the most important thing is to stay calm and assess the situation. Here are some steps to take:
1. Check for injuries: Make sure to check your baby for any signs of injury. Look for bumps, bruises, or any unusual behavior that may indicate a more serious injury.
2. Comfort your baby: Your baby may be scared and upset after falling off the bed. Comfort them by holding them and soothing them with your voice.
3. Monitor your baby: Keep a close eye on your baby for the next few hours to make sure they are acting normally. Watch for any signs of distress or unusual behavior.
4. Prevent future falls: To prevent future falls, make sure to always keep a close eye on your baby when they are on the bed. Consider using a bed rail or placing your baby in a crib to keep them safe.
Remember, accidents happen, but it’s important to stay calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your baby’s safety.

What to do to avoid further injury

Remain calm and assess the situation

If your baby falls off the bed, avoid moving them and seek medical attention if there are signs of injury such as seizures, vomiting, or bleeding.

Calling in backup

When to call 911

If your baby displays signs of serious injury following a fall, call 911. Watch for warning signs like bleeding, swelling, bruising, abnormal pupil size, or sensitivity to light and noise.

When to call the doctor

In case of bleeding or any visible bumps, consult a healthcare provider for first aid guidance. Always contact a doctor or visit the emergency room after a fall, even if the injuries appear minor.

Additional tips for baby fall injuries:

• Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Keep a close eye on your baby for any changes in behavior or symptoms.
• Follow up with your pediatrician for a thorough evaluation if needed.

Keep a close watch on your tot for a bit

When waking your baby, you’ll need to check for:

• Check for alertness.
• Look for signs of recognition.
• Monitor the baby’s breathing.

If these indicators are present, monitor the baby’s condition for a few days and seek medical attention if any abnormalities are noticed.

How long should you monitor them?

Check the baby’s condition every hour for the initial four hours, then at four-hour intervals for the next 24 hours after a fall. Look out for bumps, swelling, changes in behavior or feeding patterns, and contact the pediatrician if anything seems unusual.

It’s more common than you think

It is common for babies to have falls, and parents should not blame themselves. Proper monitoring of the child after a fall is crucial due to the frequency of such incidents among infants.

Dr. Laura O’Connor emphasizes that babies can roll unexpectedly, highlighting the importance of taking precautions to prevent falls.

How to prevent falls in the first place

Even though some advise against placing the baby on the bed to prevent falls, as long as the baby is content and calm on the bed, they can remain there. However, precautions should be taken to minimize the risk of accidents.

Helpful guidelines

• Avoid leaving the baby unattended on the bed.
• Keep the bed clear of excess bedding.
• Always have one hand on the baby while on the bed.
• Take the baby with you when leaving the room.

Babies can move quickly, so it is essential to constantly supervise them, especially on elevated surfaces like beds, changing tables, or couches. Remove extra bedding to prevent entanglement and make sure to take the baby with you when exiting the room to ensure their safety.

Despite taking precautions, accidents can still happen. Stay calm if your baby falls off the bed and seek medical attention if necessary. It is better to be cautious than to overlook any potential injuries.