Common Concerns during the Toddler Period
Promoting Toddler Safety
The major cause of accidents of children in all ages is accidents. In toddlers, accidental ingestion or poisoning occur most frequently. In most cases, poisoning occurs from the ingestion of cleaning products. Aside from that accidents can also occur during this age as a result of aspiration or ingestion of small objects such as watch batteries, pencil erasers and crayons. These cases pose a major danger to toddlers.
Safety Measure Number 1: Childproof the house and place all poisonous products, drugs, cleaning chemicals and small objects out of child’s reach when crawling and the time when the toddler is walking. Examine toys for small parts that could be aspirated and remove toys that appear dangerous.
Safety Measure Number 2: Toddlers should not be fed with peanuts and pop corns. Children should NEVER eat while running. The parents should never leave the toddlers alone with balloons.
Aside from the accidents from poisonous products and small objects, toddlers frequently experience vehicular accidents, burns, falls and playground injuries. These accidents occur as the toddler’s motor ability jumps ahead his or her judgment. They have no judgment concerning the moving cars, thus, toddlers walk across the streets with no concern for incoming cars.
Safety Measure Number 3: Direct and constant parental supervision. Educate the parents to know what their toddler is doing at ALL TIMES. Do not allow the child to operate electronic garage doors.
Safety Measure Number 4: A toddler-size car seat should be present in automobiles for toddlers until the children weigh 40 to 60 lb.
Safety Measure Number 5: Place the child at the back seat of the automobile if airbag is present at the passenger seat. Do not be distracted from safe driving by a child in a car.
Safety Measure Number 6: A helmet should be worn by the toddler as soon as they begin riding a tricycle. Supervise a toddler who is too young to be left alone on a tricycle. Teach safety with pedaling toys such as looking before crossing driveways and crossing streets. However, do not expect that the toddler will obey these rules at all times. Hence, the parents should stay close by.
Safety Measure Number 7: A safety gate on the door of the room should be built to keep a toddler contained and safe. Keep the house windows closed and keep secure screens in place. Gates should also be placed at the top and bottom of the stairs.
Daisy Jane Antipuesto RN MN
Currently a Nursing Local Board Examination Reviewer. Subjects handled are Pediatric, Obstetric and Psychiatric Nursing. Previous work experiences include: Clinical instructor/lecturer, clinical coordinator (Level II), caregiver instructor/lecturer, NC2 examination reviewer and staff/clinic nurse. Areas of specialization: Emergency room, Orthopedic Ward and Delivery Room. Also an IELTS passer.
