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September
27, 2003
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HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER OBSERVES CHILDHOOD TRAUMA AWARENESS MONTH September was Childhood Trauma Awareness Month and Hackensack University Medical Center continues to urge parents to learn about precautionary measures that can protect their children. “By incorporating simple preventive measures into their child’s routine, parents can greatly reduce the risk of a serious injury that will land their child in an emergency room,” said Ruth Borgen, M.D., medical director of the Pediatric Emergency Room at The Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center. “We can’t always expect even our older kids to take these measures themselves, but we should do our best to establish safe habits.” With so many dangerous chemicals in cleaning products, it is a fundamental part of home safety to “poison proof” the entire household. These items should be inaccessible to children, either locked away securely or stored in places that children cannot reach. In addition, parents should closely monitor the use of these products to ensure that children can’t reach them during or after use. Older kids who participate in skateboarding, bike riding and roller blading should wear safety gear, which is not limited to just a helmet. While the importance of a helmet is well known and justified, Dr. Borgen stresses the importance of protective pads, worn on the elbows, knees, and wrists. These areas are vulnerable in falls or collisions, and are a frequent site of trauma injuries. Hackensack University Medical Center also reminds parents of the importance of car seats, which should be adequately maintained and properly utilized. |
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