First Aid

Practical first aid tips for managing minor accidents and injuries in tamariki (children). 

Girl with a scraped knee

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Anaphylaxis

Allergies happen when your child's immune system mistakenly treats normally harmless substances as 'harmful'. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction which needs urgent medical treatment.

Animal Bites - What To Do About Them In Children

Animal bites from dogs and cats are common, especially in tamariki. If your child has had an animal bite, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may need treatment.

Button Battery Dangers For Children

Many electronic toys and devices have button batteries. They are very dangerous for young children if swallowed or put in nostrils or ears. Go straight to your nearest hospital if you think this has happened. 

Caring For Your Child After A Head Injury

Head injuries are common because tamariki (children) are active, sometimes fall over, and they enjoy rough-and-tumble play. If your child has a head injury - take them to see a doctor. After your child has seen the doctor and is allowed to go home, find out how to care for your child at home.

Cuts, Scratches & Grazes

How to care for cuts, scratches and grazes. If your child has a wound that won't stop bleeding, see your doctor or go to the emergency department.

Emergencies - CPR

Tamariki (children) and pēpi (babies) who are not responding and not breathing normally will need CPR.

First Aid For Bee Stings

Bee stings can cause redness, pain, swelling and itch. Most tamariki (children) who get a bee sting won’t need medical treatment. You can manage most mild bee sting symptoms at home.

First Aid For Burns & Scalds

Call 111 for an ambulance (within New Zealand) if your child’s burn is severe, large or to their face, hands, genitals or airway.

First Aid For Sprains & Strains

Sprains and strains can occur after accidents, falls or during sports or physical activities. Learn more about how to manage your child's sprain or sports injury.

Insect Bites - What To Do About Them In Children

An insect bite is usually a red itchy bump. There may be a blister in the middle. Sometimes insect bites are painful (especially spider bites) as well as itchy.

Magnet Dangers For Children

Tiny powerful magnets can be very dangerous if swallowed by children. If your toddler or child has swallowed a magnet, go straight to your nearest hospital.   

Nosebleeds In Children

Nosebleeds are common in tamariki (children) and are usually nothing to worry about. Find out what to do if your child has a nosebleed.

Poisoning - What To Do

If you think your child has been poisoned, call the New Zealand National Poisons Centre immediately on 0800 POISON (0800 764 766). Do not try to make your child vomit or give food or liquid until you have been given advice.

Seizure First Aid

Find out what to do if your child has a seizure. 

Sunburn In Children

Sunburn is common in New Zealand. Sunscreen, shade, hats and sunglasses can help protect tamariki (children) from the sun. If your child has sunburn, find out how to manage them and when to see a health professional.

What To Do If Your Baby Chokes

If your baby is choking, they may not be able to make any noise. For babies up to 1 year: If your baby is unconscious, do CPR. If your baby is conscious, find out what steps to follow.