Medical History
Every child’s medical history should be written down in case of illness or accident that requires emergency care. In these situations, paramedics and emergency room doctors may have many questions about the child’s medical history, and it is much easier to recall written information in the middle of a life-or-death emergency. Every second counts during an emergency, and having an up-to-date health record may help a doctor make quicker decisions.
Parents should keep a detailed medical record for each child in a safe place at home, one in each family car, and another in briefcase or purse. The child’s day-care center and babysitters also should have a copy.
The medical history record should include the following items.
Allergies
This can help reveal a cause for problems like seizures or difficulty breathing. Record any known allergies to medications (list each specific name), insect stings and bites, food, and other substances. Note if the child has asthma and uses inhalers.
Medications
Some drugs just do not mix, so paramedics need to know all medications a child takes. This should include the name of medication, dose, and dosing schedule for each drug.
Illnesses or Chronic Conditions
Any chronic condition (such as asthma or diabetes) can affect emergency tests or treatments. For added protection, these children should wear an identifying bracelet tag.
Hospitalizations
All hospitalization dates for the child should be listed, along with any surgeries performed.
Immunizations
The medical history should include an updated record of all the child’s immunizations, especially when the last tetanus shot was given. Information about any reactions after immunization (seizures, high fever, and so on) should be included.
Height and Weight
Because it is important to know a child’s height and weight when calculating medication doses, this information should be kept updated constantly.
Parents should keep a detailed medical record for each child in a safe place at home, one in each family car, and another in briefcase or purse. The child’s day-care center and babysitters also should have a copy.
The medical history record should include the following items.
Allergies
This can help reveal a cause for problems like seizures or difficulty breathing. Record any known allergies to medications (list each specific name), insect stings and bites, food, and other substances. Note if the child has asthma and uses inhalers.
Medications
Some drugs just do not mix, so paramedics need to know all medications a child takes. This should include the name of medication, dose, and dosing schedule for each drug.
Illnesses or Chronic Conditions
Any chronic condition (such as asthma or diabetes) can affect emergency tests or treatments. For added protection, these children should wear an identifying bracelet tag.
Hospitalizations
All hospitalization dates for the child should be listed, along with any surgeries performed.
Immunizations
The medical history should include an updated record of all the child’s immunizations, especially when the last tetanus shot was given. Information about any reactions after immunization (seizures, high fever, and so on) should be included.
Height and Weight
Because it is important to know a child’s height and weight when calculating medication doses, this information should be kept updated constantly.
Posted in Health and Wellness
