First Aid Training - Health And Safety

Health and safety training is an important component of childcare. By enforcing proper and proactive first aid training, childcare programs can help ensure that children remain safe and healthy while in their care

 It is recommended that this training include resuscitation skills such as management of blocked airways and rescue breathing but not necessarily Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The need for cardiac resuscitation is rare in childcare settings, occurring only when children have specific problems such as cardiac arrhythmia or drowning.

First-aid training for childcare providers should include guidance on treating abrasions and lacerations, burns, puncture wounds from splinters, and eye injuries. Childcare providers also should be prepared to treat the following injuries and health care needs:

• Bleeding, including nosebleeds
• Poisoning
• Convulsions or non convulsive seizures
• Sprains or fractures
• Head injuries
• Dental and mouth injuries
• Heat or cold-related injuries
• Electric shock
• Insect, animal, and human bites
• Allergic reactions

Periodic retraining is recommended to ensure that caregivers stay current and do not forget skills and procedures. To find out about training opportunities in your area, contact your local health department. In addition, the American Red Cross, hospitals, fire departments, and community colleges often provide health and safety training.