Children’s health: Managing fevers, coughs, and everyday aches and pains

When your child is ill, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But there’s no need to panic. Whether you have questions about fever, teething, or how to use certain medications, we’re here to help! Easy to reach and here to listen, your Brunet-affiliated pharmacist-owner can give you good advice to help you care for what matters most: your child.

Children’s health: Managing fevers, coughs, and everyday aches and pains

Finding the right over-the-counter treatment is one of our specialties

As a parent, it’s important to remember that not all over-the-counter medications are suitable for children. Your pharmacist can help you find treatments that are safe and effective for your little ones.

What’s more, they can direct you to the right resources to ensure that your child is well cared for and doesn’t experience any adverse effects. Here are a few solutions we can help with:

Calculating the right dosage of medication for your child

Because of their small size, children are more susceptible to adverse effects and overdoses. It’s important to know that weight is a more reliable indicator than age for determining the right dose of any medication. Your pharmacist can adjust the dosage based on your child’s weight and health status and advise you on the best way to administer medication safely and accurately. Your Brunet-affiliated pharmacist can make sure your child’s symptoms are managed effectively.

First-aid kit and everyday care for your child

Your pharmacist has your child’s health at heart and can advise you on routine daily care. They can help you put together a practical first aid kit for children and talk you through what to do in different situations. Check out our in-depth feature on the daily care of children.

  • First aid kit: items tailored to your family’s specific needs.
  • Care of cuts and scrapes: safe methods for disinfecting and protecting a child’s skin.
  • Treatment of minor burns: immediate steps to take and recommended products.

Dealing with common health problems

When you’re concerned about your child’s health, your pharmacist can be a valuable resource. They can assess the situation, advise you on the appropriate treatment, and determine whether they need to see a doctor. For common problems such as a cold, mild conjunctivitis, or diaper rash, they will give advice tailored to your child’s situation.

 

Common health problems

When to see a doctor

Fever

Over 40°C, infant under 3 months old, persists for more than 48 hours, or accompanied by poor general condition.

Conjunctivitis

Large amount of discharge, intense pain, affected vision.

Diaper rash

Persists despite treatment, bleeding, or fever.

Teething

High fever, refusal to eat, signs of dehydration.

 

How can your pharmacist help manage a child’s fever?

We advise parents to closely monitor their child’s temperature and make sure they drink plenty of fluids. For fever relief, talk to us to find the right medication and dosage for their weight. For a fever that lasts more than 48 hours, we recommend seeing a doctor.

Tips for administering medication to your child

Your pharmacist will ask you about your child’s general health and about what’s causing the fever (cold, teething, virus, etc.). It’s important to monitor your child’s temperature, as fever is a good indicator of their state of health. Pharmacists can also recommend the right medication for fever relief and calculate the appropriate dosage for your child’s weight.

We also advise parents to keep a close eye on their child’s general condition, and make sure they drink plenty of fluids (water, milk, rehydration solution) to prevent dehydration. The signs of dehydration include dry lips, less frequent urination or dark-coloured urine, crying without tears, irritability, and drowsiness. If the fever lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by signs of dehydration, or if your child’s general state of health deteriorates, the best thing to do is to see a doctor as soon as possible.

What does it mean to care for a child?

Caring for children means ensuring their physical and emotional safety and meeting their basic needs. Your pharmacist can give you advice on routine care to support the well-being of your little ones.

What are the 4 key principles of caring for children?

We all want the best for our children. In order to help them grow up confidently, you must keep four key principles in mind. Think of these as the foundation of their well-being.

1. Emotional security: The anchor

Above all, a child needs to feel loved, listened to, and safe. Knowing that they can count on you through thick and thin gives them the confidence to explore the world. It’s the basis of everything.

2. Exploration: Letting them discover in their own way

Children are natural explorers! Touching, tasting, trying, and making mistakes are how they learn about and understand the world around them. Encouraging your child’s curiosity in a safe environment helps them develop autonomy and confidence.

3. Respect for their rhythm: It’s as unique as they are

Each child develops at their own pace, just as they should. Walking, talking, potty training... don’t get caught in the comparison trap. Respecting your child’s rhythm means showing them you love them as they are and giving them the space they need to develop little by little, when they are ready.

4. Protection: A safe and caring environment

Protecting your child doesn’t mean holding them back from exploring. It means providing an environment where they can safely spread their wings. This requires clear rules and a safe space, as well as a gradual process of learning to recognize risks. It’s also important to give them the tools they need to ensure their own safety when they’re grown.

What are a child’s 7 basic needs?

We all want the best for our children. Beyond toys and activities, they have certain needs that are critical for healthy childhood development. Think of these as the secret recipe for raising a happy and healthy child.

1. A peaceful environment: The need for security

Children need to feel safe; to know they have a home base where they’ll be protected, listened to, and comforted. It’s this feeling of confidence that gives your child the courage to explore the world, little by little.

2. Energy to grow: The need for a balanced diet

Children need a healthy and varied diet to fuel their developing bodies and brains. This is what gives them the energy to play, learn, and take on the little challenges of everyday life.

3. Healthy habits: The need for hygiene

Hygiene—from washing their hands to brushing their teeth and more—is about more than cleanliness. Children need these rituals to learn to take care of their bodies, feel good, and become independent.

4. Time to recharge: The need for sleep

Children need a good night’s sleep. Nighttime is when they grow and when their brains organize everything they’ve learned during the day. A well-rested child will be keen, alert, and ready for new adventures!

5. Cuddles galore: The need for affection

Affection is the foundation of trust. Hugs, kind words, encouragement... every affectionate gesture tells them that they are important and that they are loved. It’s what feeds their soul.

6. The freedom to discover: The need to explore

The world is a huge playground! Letting children explore, touch, and experiment is an essential way to nurture their curiosity and intelligence. Children learn best from their own discoveries.

7. The right to be proud: The need for self-esteem

Children’s self-esteem is built up day after day. By encouraging your child’s efforts, celebrating their little victories, and giving them responsibilities that reflect their abilities, you show them that they are capable. It’s the best gift you can give to help them believe in themself as they navigate through life.

Your Brunet pharmacist: Taking your family’s health to heart, right in the heart of your neighbourhood

We understand that families are constantly on the go! That’s why your pharmacist provides practical services designed to simplify your life and take care of everyone you love most.

  • Little scrapes? Big bobos? We’ve got you covered. Health concerns? We can assess a wide range of minor health problems in-pharmacy, and even prescribe the right treatment. We’re here to take care of you!
  • The MaSanté application, your everyday partner for all things health. Refill prescriptions for the whole family in just a few clicks. It’s healthy living, right at your fingertips.
  • Vaccination made easy. Protect the people you love. It’s easy to make vaccination appointments for everyone in your family. Book an appointment now.
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