At our first class, the opening discussion topic was "Getting Ready for the Winter". I wanted to share some of the advice that was discussed at this session.
(1) Know your child's healthy baseline breathing status, and make sure your pediatrician also knows it before the start of the viral season.
This means counting the respiratory rate, determining how long it takes your child to finish an average feed, whether there are baseline retractions, baseline saturation, etc. It helps to keep this information written, on your refrigerator, so you can refer to it for comparison wen you think your child might be sick.
(2) Know your winter sick plan.
Whatever baseline regimen your child is on, the clinic should have helped discuss what you should use as a first-line treatment when your child starts to get sick. If you are on no maintenance meds, it may mean starting the use of bronchodilators. If you're on inhaled steroid, it may mean increasing the dosing. If you are not sure what your sick plan is, then discuss with your providers at the CHILD clinic or your pediatrician's office.
(3) Make sure your child gets all eligible protection.
If your child is eligible for Synagis or the flu vaccine, make sure this is in place.
(4) Make sure you have the medications you need in your home.
Don't wait for the midnight snowstorm to run out to the pharmacy to get your medication prescriptions filled!
(5) Practice common-sense infection control.
Try to avoid settings where your child might come into contact with people with obvious viral symptoms. Bring plenty of Purell or WetWipes when you are out and about.
(6) If you ever have any questions about your child's breathing, don't hesitate to get help! Talk through questions with your pediatrician or Dr. RHein and the CHILD Clinic staff!
Please feel free to contact us or post comments if you have additional suggestions that may help other families!
