If you’re an at-home nurse, watching a child ride out a common illness like the flu or cold can be a challenging experience. In most cases, all you can do is make them feel comfortable. Here are a few tips to ensure a positive outcome.

How to Keep a Sick Child Comfortable & Safe

1. Hydrate

Dehydration is one of the most overlooked side effects of many illnesses. Vomiting, diarrhea, or not drinking enough water will all lead to dehydration. When the body doesn’t have enough water, organs won’t function correctly. Brain processes slow down, and when untreated, seizures and even death can follow.

Have your patient drink warm water. You can help them hydrate with soups, chicken broth, or foods like watermelon, tomatoes, and oranges.

2. Create a Comfortable Place to Rest

Rest is essential to healing from many illnesses, so make the patient comfortable. Keep them home from school and create a cozy spot in their bed or on the sofa. It’s best if they get an extra hour of sleep so their immune system can recover. Their body temperature will fluctuate, so provide plenty of blankets, and keep their head elevated so their nasal passages stay open.

3. Alleviate Congestion

If your patient is congested, run a hot shower to turn the bathroom into a steam room. They can sit there to clear their sinuses. As an alternative, use a portable humidifier, especially at night, when congestion can interfere with sleep.

Flush mucus with nasal saline drops, which is especially effective for small children that can’t blow their nose. If congestion has caused a sore throat, provide OTC ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce pain and fever. Honey is an effective, all-natural alternative.

J & D Ultracare is committed to connecting families with health care professionals throughout Westchester County, Monroe, White Plains, NY, and Orange County. Our pediatric nurses and home health care professionals are the best in the industry. If you’re a nurse looking for job opportunities, visit our website to explore openings. Call (845) 357-4500 to reach our staff, and connect on Facebook for more health care tips.