Author: Premier Urgent Care Chicago

Insect Sting: When It’s Time to Seek Treatment

Insect Sting - spider on webInsect bites and stings are never pleasant, but some stings can cause more severe reactions than others. Some insects are venomous and can cause serious medical issues without treatment. People with allergies to certain types of insects face severe risks from an insect sting. Most stinging insects are most active in the late summer and early fall during the height of their breeding seasons.

As the summer ends, now is the perfect time to learn the signs that an insect sting or bite requires medical attention.

Scratching Can Lead to Infection

Some insect bites, such as mosquito bites, may not cause any severe effects on their own. Most people contend with skin discomfort and itchiness after suffering insect bites. However, excessive scratching can potentially open the skin and cause a secondary infection. If you have been incessantly scratching an insect bite and notice persistent warmth in the affected area, severe redness, the development of an abscess, or a fever, see a doctor as soon as possible.

RELATED ARTICLE: Walk-In Clinic or ER: The Basics for When to Go Where

Embedded Ticks

Everyone dreads discovering ticks on their clothes or skin after a walk in the woods. When you notice a tick on yourself, remove it as soon as possible by using a pair of metal tweezers to firmly grasp the head of the insect and pull it out. Avoid crushing the tick’s body, which can transmit diseases like Lyme disease into the open bite wound. If you cannot remove a tick completely or cannot reach it, a medical professional can help. If you develop flu-like symptoms after suffering a tick bite, seek medical care immediately.

People with Allergies Face Significant Risks

Many people with allergies may not only contend with hay fever symptoms and sensitivity to tree and grass pollen but also insect bites. Some signs of an allergic reaction include:

  • Itching and swelling in the affected area.
  • The appearance of hives on the skin.
  • Chest tightness and shortness of breath.

Some people with severe allergies may experience anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal allergic reaction. This may entail a sharp drop in blood pressure or even a loss of consciousness. These individuals should consult their doctors about preventative measures, such as immunotherapy or carrying an EpiPen when they go outdoors.

Some Insect Stings Can Be Deadly

Allergies aside, some insects pose significant risks due to their very nature. A few of the insects that could prompt immediate medical attention after stinging or biting include:

  • Africanized honeybees, or “killer bees,” which defend their hives aggressively and sting more than regular honeybees in response to threats.
  • Brown recluse spiders. Their venom can cause necrosis of the skin, leading to infection and permanent scarring without immediate medical attention.
  • Black widow spiders. With venom 15 times more powerful than rattlesnake venom, a bite from a black widow can send the victim into shock. These bites require immediate medical intervention, especially if the victim is a child.

If you or a loved one suffers a sting or bite from these creatures, experiences an acute allergic reaction, or develops an infection after suffering an insect bite, seek medical treatment immediately. Premier Urgent Care can offer top-notch medical treatment for unexpected insect bites.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for immediate care.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care. Visit https://premierucchicago.com.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

Signs of Dehydration in Children

Signs of Dehydration in ChildrenHours of outdoor playtime and illness are common causes of dehydration in children. Dehydration is a condition that occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in. In severe cases of dehydration, there is not enough water to carry out normal body functions, such as temperature regulation and maintaining a normal heart rate.

Bottom line…

Anyone can experience bouts of dehydration, but some groups, like babies and young children, are particularly vulnerable.

What Causes Dehydration?

When children lose fluids without adequate replacement, dehydration can result. The most common cause of dehydration in children is vomiting and diarrhea. Since babies and young children carry lower volumes of water in their bodies, they are particularly susceptible. Other activities, such as vigorous outdoor activity, can contribute to the onset of dehydration.

RELATED ARTICLE: How to Tell If You Have the Flu

What Are the Symptoms?

It can be difficult to assess dehydration in its earliest stages, especially since it can mimic other signs of illness. Mild dehydration can have several signs. Dehydration may be a possibility if your child:

  • Complains of thirst or lightheadedness
  • Has a dry mouth
  • Is more tired than usual
  • Urinates less frequently, and urine is dark or strong-smelling

Babies and younger children may not be able to communicate their symptoms to their parents. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

  • A sunken spot (fontanelle) on the top of the head
  • No or few tears with crying
  • Fewer wet diapers
  • Lethargy

Can You Prevent Dehydration?

Mild cases of dehydration are common following illnesses. When a child does not feel well enough to eat or drink, even small amounts of fluid loss can lead to dehydration. When your child is not feeling well, you can encourage them to take small sips of clear liquid such as water. Though giving your child juice regularly is not recommended, providing diluted apple juice during periods of illness may be appropriate. If your child is resisting liquids, try making it novel by offering through silly straws or a special cup.

When dehydration is moderate or severe, electrolyte replacement through specially-formulated pediatric drinks may be indicated. Your Premier Urgent Care provider will tell you if you need to supplement with drinks such as Pedialyte.

With conservative measures, mild and moderate dehydration should resolve on its own with the reintroduction of fluids. In more severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary. Seek medical attention immediately if:

  • Your baby or child is lethargic
  • Your baby is less than 3 months old and has a fever
  • Your baby goes more than 6 hours without a wet diaper
  • Your baby’s fontanelle appears sunken
  • Your child has dry or stick mucous membranes (inside of mouth, corners of eyes)

Dehydration is a common condition and can be scary for parents. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for immediate care.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care. Visit https://premierucchicago.com.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

Will I Need Stitches? A Guide

will I need stitches An injury is never convenient, and for a child it can be downright scary. When a patient presents with an open wound, often one of the first questions he or she asks is, “Will I need stitches?”

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The decision to suture may depend on the site of the injury in question, patient medical history, and other factors. However, knowing the basics of suturing and when it’s indicated can help ease anxiety about the process.

When Might Stitches Be Indicated?

For shallow wounds, cleaning and covering are sufficient for optimal healing. For larger wounds, stitching may be necessary to prevent infection and speed the healing process. Sutures may be indicated when:

  • The cut is deeper than one quarter of an inch
  • The cut involved a dirty or rusty object
  • The cut still bleeds after 15 minutes of applied pressure
  • The cut is in an area of cosmetic concern (i.e., the face)
  • Fat, muscle, bone, or other structures are visible

What Kind of Closure Might My Provider Use?

Your provider may use one of several different methods to close a wound:

  • Steri-Strips, or butterfly “stitches,” are essentially pieces of tape that adhere better to the surface of the skin. They are better suited to treat superficial wounds, rather than deep ones. Your provider may tell you to wait until the Steri-Strips fall off naturally, or advise you to take them off after a certain number of days.
  • Liquid stitches, or skin glue, can be a good choice for children because one can avoid the anxiety of needles. They are best for superficial, straight wounds that are under low-tension like the forehead or chin. It is not good for deep or jagged wounds or wounds overlying high-tension areas like knees and elbows. Be sure to tell your provider if you have a medical condition that causes slow wound healing, such as diabetes.
  • Traditional sutures may be absorbable or permanent. Absorbable sutures dissolve over a period of weeks. They are best for areas such as the lining of the mouth, lower layers of skin, and muscles and connective tissue. Permanent sutures, made of nylon or silk, will require follow-up with your provider for removal.

No matter what kind of closure a wound needs, the providers at Premier Urgent Care will treat your condition with compassion and care.

Skip the wait of the emergency room and walk in to our clinic for immediate assistance. Read our blog post Walk-In Clinic or ER to determine where you should go for medical care or visit our Urgent Care Services page for more information.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care. Visit https://premierucchicago.com.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

Walk-In Clinic or ER: The Basics for When to Go Where

walk-in clinicAn injury or illness is never convenient. You or someone you love may fall ill on an evening, holiday, or weekend, when you cannot reach your primary care provider for advice. When an injury or illness occurs, knowing when you can go to a walk-in clinic – or when you should report directly in an emergency room – can save you time and additional expense.

When to Use a Walk-In Clinic

A walk-in clinic or urgent care is best for situations where you would normally see your primary care provider, but they are not available. Urgent cares play a vital role in filling the gaps between the family physician and emergency room. The National Center for Health Statistics reports that among patients who visited the ER but were not admitted, nearly half went because their doctor’s office wasn’t open.

Some people use the emergency room as an after-hour clinic but will face long waits for care due to the hospital triage system. A walk-in clinic provides middle ground by addressing patient needs that require prompt care but do not constitute a true medical emergency.

Symptoms appropriate for evaluation and treatment at a walk-in clinic or urgent care include:

●        Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

●        Abdominal pain

●        Dehydration

●        Fever without the presence of a rash

●        Strains, sprains, or minor occupational injuries

●        Flu-like symptoms

●        Small lacerations that require stitching

In general, urgent cares serve as a back-up to your primary care provider. If you have familiar symptoms of a recurring illness – such as an ear infection or UTI – an urgent care can help when your primary care physician is not available.

RELATED ARTICLE: 4 Ways to Speed Up You Urgent Care Visit

When Should I Go to the Emergency Room?

The emergency room is best reserved for medical conditions that present a true threat to patient health or safety. Symptoms that require evaluation and treatment in an emergency room include:

●        Chest pain, especially when accompanied by shortness of breath

●        Slurred speech or loss of balance

●        One-sided weakness or numbness

●        Serious or large surface area burns

●        Injuries to the head or eyes

●        Concussion

●        Fever accompanied by a rash

●        Seizures

●        Altered mental status

●        Large broken bones (hands, fingers, feet and toes are fine for an urgent care)

●        Vaginal bleeding in pregnancy

●        Severe flu-like symptoms

Knowing when to go to an emergency room and when to utilize a walk-in clinic can save you time, money, and frustration.

In general, many people use an emergency room because they are unaware a better option is available. When using an emergency room for a minor illness, you could be responsible for expensive co-pays.

A walk-in clinic can fill the gap between your primary care provider and serves as an excellent choice for minor illnesses and injuries. Visit out Urgent Care Services page for more information.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care. Visit https://premierucchicago.com.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

How to Tell If You Have the Flu

how to tell if you have the fluMany viruses can make people feel miserable, but influenza strains can be particularly dangerous. Every year, Americans have plenty of options when it comes to low-cost shots, but everyone should know the warning signs and telltale symptoms of the flu so they can seek medical treatment right away. The flu is potentially deadly to some people, especially very young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems or immune system disorders.

Similarities to Other Viruses

The influenza virus causes many symptoms similar to other viral infections like the common cold, such as coughing, headaches, and a fever. While the common cold usually causes sneezing, sore throat, and congestion, the flu often causes intense body aches, fatigue, and a high fever lasting several days. A cold can build up symptoms gradually over several days while flu symptoms generally have a rapid onset.

The common cold may only result in minor complications whereas the flu virus can lead to potentially life-threatening conditions like pneumonia. Medical researchers have identified more than 100 types of cold viruses, and the influenza virus mutates on a regular basis, requiring the medical treatment community to develop new vaccines every year. Antibiotics do not work on viruses, so most people who develop the flu simply let the sickness run its course while treating the symptoms. However, some antiviral medications such as Tamiflu can help symptoms and shorten recovery time for some patients.

Flu Treatment with Tamiflu

Oseltamivir, commonly sold under the brand name Tamiflu, is an oral antiviral medication that can reduce symptoms like stuffy nose, sore throat, fever, chills, muscle aches, and coughing and shorten recovery time by one to two days. Tamiflu works best when taken as soon as symptoms appear, or even as soon as an individual confirms exposure to the flu. To treat the flu, prescribing doctors generally advise two tablets each day for five days. To prevent flu symptoms after exposure, one tablet every day for ten days is the usual prescription.

Premier Urgent Care in Chicago can provide Tamiflu prescriptions to patients who test positive for influenza. Flu symptoms can develop very quickly after exposure, so prompt treatment is necessary if you want to avoid a week or longer in bed with awful symptoms. Tamiflu is a low-risk medication with minimal side effects, but it may not be appropriate for patients taking certain kidney medications or blood pressure medications. Our healthcare providers can discuss with you if you are an appropriate candidate for the medication.

If a family member or coworker recently developed the flu, it’s a wise idea to get tested for exposure, especially is you or your child is in a high-risk population, and begin treatment with Tamiflu before symptoms appear and disrupt your life. Premier Urgent Care offers several options for flu prevention and treatment, so consider a flu test if you believe you’ve recently been exposed to influenza.

For more information on the influenza and other injuries and illnesses visit our urgent care services page or https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care. Visit https://premierucchicago.com.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

The Best Hand Washing Techniques

best hand washing techniquesThink about how often you (or your children) were sick when you first started school – exposure to multiple other children, as well as all the bacteria and viruses they carry, often leads to increased occurrences of illness. Now that school is out for the summer, children are spending more time at home, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t exposed to germs. Consider their time back-and-forth from the playground, the soccer field, and indoor gyms, leaving them exposed to a whole new set of germs. One of the simplest and most effective methods for stopping the spread of germs and protecting yourself from them is proper hand washing technique.

Yes! There’s a right way to wash hands! Keep reading…

When to Wash Your Hands

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer guidance concerning some of the most common situations when hand washing is a necessity:

  • Wash your hands before handling any type of food. This prevents germs from transferring from your body to your food, which others might share.
  • Hand washing should be part of your cooking routine – before, during, and after. Regular hand washing between phases of cooking can help prevent cross-contamination and food borne illnesses.
  • Wash your hands after touching any type of bodily fluid, your own or anyone else’s. For example, wash your hands after changing your child’s diaper or after caring for someone who is sick and vomiting.
  • Hand washing can also prevent the spread of germs between people and their pets. Wash your hands after handling any type of pet food, treats, toys, or bedding.
  • Wash your hands after using the toilet, treating a wound, coughing, or sneezing.

How to Wash Your Hands the Right Way

While it’s vital to know when to wash your hands, you must also know how to wash them the right way:

  1. Rinse your hands with warm running water.
  2. Apply soap and lather your hands entirely, including between your fingers and the backs of your hands.
  3. Scrub for about 20 seconds. An easy way to time this is to hum or sing the “Happy Birthday” song in your head while you wash.
  4. Rinse your hands well.
  5. Dry them with a clean cloth towel, paper towel, or air dryer.

Staying Clean When Hand Washing Is Not an Option

Surprisingly, many people simply forego hand washing when it seems like it’s not feasible. If you find yourself outdoors for an extended amount of time or you use a portable restroom without hand washing facilities, a bottle of hand sanitizer can help keep your hands clean and spread germs. However remember… hand sanitizer is not a replacement for proper hand washing.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care. Visit https://premierucchicago.com.

No appointment needed.

Call (773) 891-2890.

Insurance accepted.

What Is Pink Eye?

what is pink eye - child with pick eye

If you or your child has an itchy eye that’s red and irritated, knowing the difference between pink eye, (also called conjunctivitis), and a simple allergy or irritant can be crucial. Pink eye spreads extremely easily and knowing the difference could help you identify and address an infection before it gets worse or spreads to others.

What is Pink Eye and How to Identify

Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, entails the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the transparent whitish membrane over the eyes. This inflames the blood vessels of the conjunctiva, causing a reddish or pinkish coloring in the whites of the eyes. Human eyes are very sensitive and may redden due to various types of irritation. Causes can include bacteria, viruses, fungi, toxic or allergic insults.

Pink eye has a few unique symptoms:
  • Pink eye can affect one or both eyes. Allergies and other airborne eye irritants typically affect both eyes at once, (but conjunctivitis is an infection that may only affect one eye—this fragment seems unnecessary).
  • Redness from pink eye typically causes an itchy or gritty feeling in the affected eyes.
  • Conjunctivitis often causes excessive tearing.
  • Pink eye causes a crust to form over the eyelashes of the affected eyes, especially during sleep. This may actually cause the eyelid to feel “glued” shut upon waking, requiring cleaning before the person can open the affected eye.
  • Pink eye, when caused by bacteria, will have a thick, purulent drainage that can be white, green or yellow.

Prevention and Treatment for Conjunctivitis

Several home remedies can alleviate the symptoms of pink eye, such as using a warm compress over the affected eye to reduce itchiness and swelling, removing contact lenses, and proper hygiene. Depending on the type of conjunctivitis a person has, these remedies may help overcome symptoms. However, some types of conjunctivitis will require medical intervention. If pink eye causes pain, fever, or changes in vision, the affected individual should seek medical care immediately.

Conjunctivitis symptoms can appear due to allergies or exposure to some airborne irritants, such as smoke or chemical fumes. In most cases, symptoms will subside after moving away from the source of the irritation and proper cleaning. People who suffer from allergic conjunctivitis often find relief from over-the-counter allergy medications such as antihistamines For example, taking a shower after spending time outdoors and using antihistamines may alleviate the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis from pollen exposure outdoors.

For other types of conjunctivitis caused by viruses and bacteria, help from a doctor may be necessary for symptoms to improve. You should also take steps to prevent the spread of viral or bacterial conjunctivitis as they are extremely contagious. Replace any bedding and pillowcases used by the person with pink eye and have everyone in the home refrain from touching their eyes. Frequent handwashing can also help stop the spread of the viruses and bacteria that can cause conjunctivitis.

For more information on pink eye visit: https://www.cdc.gov/features/conjunctivitis/index.html.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

Burn Prevention Tips and Treatment: A Summer Guide

Burn Prevention Tips

Summer is a time for campfires, barbecues and spending time in the sun; people of all ages enjoy these activities, and for the most part, come away happy, healthy, and uninjured. However, some of the most enjoyable summer activities present a risk for burns.

Burn Prevention Tips

Protect yourself and your loved ones this summer with these simple burn prevention tips.

Sunburn

One of the most common injuries seen during summertime is sunburn, which is essentially a type of radiation burn caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Sunburn is not only uncomfortable (or even painful at severe levels), consistent unprotected overexposure to sunlight can dramatically increase the risk of skin cancer. Always use sunscreen with a high SPF rating whenever you plan to spend any extended time outdoors. Be sure to reapply with the proper amount (most people use far too little) at regular intervals and after swimming or bathing. There are a number of UV blocking shirts and hats that provide significantly more protection than regular clothing.

RELATED ARTICLE: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke – Do You know the Difference?

Cooking Burns

Summertime means grilling with friends and family for many Americans. Whether you cook indoors or outside this summer, be cautious around hot cooking equipment such as stoves, gas grills, charcoal grills, and smokers. These devices can easily cause serious burns or even start fires if left unattended or mishandled. Never leave grills or other hot cooking equipment unattended. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep a fire extinguisher close to all cooking areas. Once the charcoal is lit, NEVER spray additional lighter fluid on it. The fire can trail up to the bottle and explode in your hand!

Burns from Open Flames and Campfires

A bonfire can be the perfect way to end a fun summer day, but open flames always present a fire and burn injury risk. A sudden gust of wind can send flames flicking toward those around a campfire or bonfire, and the wind may also carry away flaming bits of kindling that can cause fires elsewhere. If you build a campfire or bonfire, use stones around the base to keep embers and kindling at the bottom of the fire from blowing in the wind. Have dousing materials at all times, and never leave any open flame unattended.

Hot Surface Burns

Your kids may enjoy the local playground, but visiting midday or in the afternoon after the metal surfaces, ladders, and slides have been baking in the sun all day can easily mean severe burns from contact with hot surfaces. If you take your kids to a playground with any type of metal equipment, try to time your visits earlier or later in the day, either before the equipment has a chance to heat up or after it has been able to cool down from the midday heat.

Be sure to keep first aid supplies nearby or have some type of emergency plan. Most burns require immediate medical attention. If the pain from a burn does not subside within ten to twenty minutes or after taking over-the-counter pain medication, or if the burn entailed serious visible damage to the victim, they may require immediate medical care. Feel free to call Premier Urgent Care at (773) 891-2890 with any questions. As always, for more information, visit https://premierucchicago.com.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke: Do You Know the Difference?

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke
One of the most well-known risks of venturing out in the summer is the effect heat can have on the body. Primarily, heat causes two kinds of injury – heat exhaustion and heat stroke – but many people do not know the difference. This post will outline the effects heat exhaustion and heat stroke have on the body and how dehydration and failure to rest can lead to both. In addition, we will describe preventive measures such as proper hydration, resting in shaded areas, and wearing light, loose clothing.

Generally, heat stroke is more serious than heat exhaustion.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

  • General weakness
  • Increased heavy sweating
  • Weak but fast pulse or heart rate
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Risk of fainting
  • Cold, clammy skin

Heat Stroke Symptoms

  • Elevated body temperature above 103 degrees F
  • Rapid and strong pulse or heart rate
  • Loss or change of consciousness
  • Hot, dry, red or moist skin

Certain things can aggravate heat-related illness, such as dehydration, wearing tight or heavy clothing, and drinking alcohol.

Tips to Avoid Heat-Related Illness

The CDC gives us these helpful tips to avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion this summer.

  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Stay in an air-conditioned space as much as possible. If you do not have AC in your home, walk around a shopping mall or visit the public library, as just even a few hours spent in air conditioning can aid your body in staying cooler when you do eventually venture back out into the heat.
  • Limit outdoor activities to when it is coolest outside, such as first thing in the morning or in the evening. Rest often in shady areas to give your body a chance to recover.
  • Avoid exercising outside during the heat. If you do have to work or exercise in the heat outdoors, start slowly and pick up the pace on a gradual basis. If you become weak, faint, lightheaded or confused, stop all activity and go indoors.
  • Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 15, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when going outdoors.

Contact Premier Urgent Care Chicago

Premier Urgent Care is your source for attentive, high-quality healthcare throughout the South Side Chicago area. Our urgent care services are quick, convenient, and compassionate, thanks to a highly-trained staff and board-certified physicians and physician assistants. If you have a healthcare emergency, from heat stroke and heat exhaustion to anything else, call us at 773-891-2890.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care.

No appointment needed.
Call (773) 891-2890.
Insurance accepted.

How to Avoid Child Drowning

Adult practicing CPR - Prevent Child DrowningIn this post, we look at child drowning. Children experience drowning risks that differ from adults – many children drown because they are curious and unsupervised. Drownings are the leading cause of injury death for young children ages one to 14, and three children die each day from drowning, says the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fortunately, there are ways to prevent child drowning.

Keep reading – In this post, we…

  • Detail ways to prevent children from accessing the water unsupervised, such as pool fences, pool covers, and removing tempting toys from pools.
  • Detail prevention tips for parents, like swimming lessons, encouraging children to jump feet first and staying within arm’s reach at all times.
  • Encourage parents to learn lifesaving measures.

Barriers to Entry

Install a fence around your pool. Many states require pool fences, especially for in-ground pools. The fence should have a locking mechanism that cannot be opened by a small child. Above ground pools should have foldable and lockable ladders, but even that may not be enough. The top piece of advice is: know where your children are at all times. Supervise them when outside, and install alarms on any doors that could be opened onto the pool area by small children so you are alerted if they venture out.

When the pool is not in use, remove all tempting toys and floats from the water. Kids are curious and love to play. They may not understand the inherent danger of playing with toys near the pool or climbing on an innocent-looking float until it is too late.

Finally, when pool season is over for the year, install a properly fitted, rigid pool cover that keeps debris out, as well as children and pets that could fall into the pool area.

Child Drowning Prevention

Teaching your kids how to avoid drowning is the best way to keep such a tragic event from happening in the first place. Make sure they know about the dangers of unsupervised swimming and that a caregiver must be watching over them in the pool at all times. They need to know how to swim in the event they do fall into the pool. Enroll them in swimming lessons at the local YMCA or gym, or host them at your own pool with a certified swim instructor.

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/swim-lessons.aspx

Also, encourage your children to jump feet first, especially into water they have never been in before or where they can’t see the bottom, such as a lake. Keep little ones within arm’s reach at all times.

If you do not know CPR, what are you waiting on? Learn it! You could save a life in the time it takes the paramedics to arrive on the scene.

As parents, we should learn lifesaving measures to prevent accidents from happening in our own pools and at pools of neighbors and friends. Make sure the pool area is equipped with life vests and make sure the kids know how to use them. Take a CPR course yourself so you can provide lifesaving techniques to a child before paramedics can arrive.

Contact Premier Urgent Care Chicago

Premier Urgent Care Center provides high-quality healthcare throughout the Chicago area, with urgent care services that are quick, convenient, and compassionate. We have a staff of highly trained and board certified physicians and physician assistants who can address the immediate healthcare needs of your whole family. To learn more, call us at 773-891-2890.

Better Providers. Better Care.

Learn why patients have come to trust Premier Urgent Care.

No appointment needed.

Call (773) 891-2890.

Insurance accepted.

call (773) 891-2890

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