Preventing Common Injuries in Kids [Video]

Pediatrician Dr. Nesibe Ozfidan said unintentional injuries vary by age. Young kids tend to put things in their mouth or nose “All the time, because they don’t know what’s dangerous or not. So, they also try to explore things through their mouths.”

Small toys, magnets, and pills can be especially dangerous because families often aren’t sure exactly what the child swallowed. “There is a saying in the pediatric world that a pill can kill. So, if they ingest and swallow something, they should definitely need care,” said Dr. Ozfidan.

While elementary aged kids are more aware of danger, accidents still happen. There were more than 30,000 burn injuries from hair styling tools among those 24 and younger from 2013-2022, with the majority of those injured being 10 and younger. “It could be anything. It could be just a curling iron, or older sibling, or whatever they have at home. It could be dangerous using knives, and sharp objects can be a problem for them,” said Dr. Ozfidan.

Head injuries are more common in teens. From 2020 to 2021, the number of children and teens injured on e-scooters rose more than 70%. “One head injury can cause a lot of problems, can cause some broken bones, some bleeding inside, and can cause permanent damage,” said Dr. Ozfidan. The worst of which can be prevented by always wearing a helmet. Golisano Children’s Hospital has Lee County’s only pediatric emergency department. It’s open 24/7.

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