Ramapo
Valley Pediatrics
Serving the children of Rockland and Orange counties since 1981
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Serving the children of Rockland and Orange counties since 1981
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HOME ESSENTIALS Yakov S. Kiffel M.D. FAAP A question we often get in the office is "what should we have in the house in case of emergencies?" I don't suggest keeping a closet full of medications, but the following is a list of the basics. If you have a 24 hour pharmacy nearby, you can keep just the more typical ones at home. Of course, if you think it may be more than a simple medical problem, or if you have any questions, don't hesitate to call the office. Oral medications: acetaminophen (Tylenol) in forms appropriate for age & weight ibuprofen (Motrin / Advil) (>6 months) in forms appropriate for age & weight diphenhydramine (Benadryl) (>6 months) in forms appropriate for age & weight Pedialyte liquid & popsicles acetaminophen (Feverall) suppositories for children who refuse to take oral medications decongestant (pseudoephedrine) cough medications are generally not effective Topical (skin) medications A&D/Vaseline/baby oil to prevent diaper rashes Desitin/Balmex/Triple Paste to treat diaper rashes hydrocortisone 1% cream /ointment bacitracin / Neosporin sunscreen (>6 months) basic moisturizer, such as Aquaphor, Eucerin, Cetaphil, Aveeno, etc Other medications saline nose drops / spray as appropriate for age Equipment fine point tweezers rectal thermometer (digital, not mercury) nasal aspirator humidifier (cool mist) Except in specific situations, any prescribed antibiotics should be thrown out when the prescribed course has been completed. It should not be kept "just in case." Of course, children with recurrent and/or chronic medical conditions like asthma, allergies, eczema etc should have their medications available - ask us if you have any questions. With all medications, make sure to replace them when expired (mark it on your calendar). While not complete, the items on this list should prevent you from having to run out to the pharmacy in the middle of the night. Think of it as insurance - if you have it at home, you'll probably never need to use it!
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