Tips for children on how to stay healthy, stay safe around medications

Last Friday, Holly Hink, APRN, from the Campbell County Medical Group Kid Clinic, spent some time with children at the Boys & Girls Club of Campbell County about how to stay healthy in the winter and the summer, and safe medications.

Below are some of Holly’s quick tips on how children (and adults) can stay healthy:

• Wash hands (and/or use hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available) before eating, after using restroom, and after playing outside.
• Eat ALL food groups; however, eat more fruits and veggies, water and milk—and eat less highly sugary foods and drinks such as soda, candies, cookies, cakes.
• Make sure you get plenty of sleep at night. Sleep helps the body grow big and strong, and helps fight off illness!
• Playing and exercise helps keep body healthy. Limit time playing video games, playing on tablets or phones, and watching TV.
• Brush your teeth two times a day and schedule dental appointments at least every six months, or instructed by the dentist.
• Schedule a checkup with your doctor (or advance practice provider), even when you are feeling great! This allows them to know how you are growing and feeling. It also allows us to know how you look then when you get sick.
• In the summer, make sure to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and be safe around water.
• Overall: Say NO to drugs including smoking, vaping and alcohol.

Here are some safety tips for children and medications:

• Only take medications prescribed to you.
• Only take medications with assistance by trusted adult, such as a parent, caregiver, teacher, and nurse.
• Never take medications from a friend.
• Be aware that some medications look like candy so just because you find something that looks like Skittles does not mean that is what it is. Make sure you know exactly what you are eating or taking.

If you are interested in having Holly speak to your group, please contact Kid Clinic Manager Marlo Dunham at 307.688.3600.

Holly Hink, APRN, CPNP, works at the Campbell County Medical Group Kid Clinic, a school-based pediatric clinic in Gillette, Wyoming. The medical clinic serves children ages 2 weeks to 18 years old; and counseling services for children 4 years old to 21 years old. It is located at 800 Butler Spaeth Rd., across from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church. The Kid Clinic is open Monday-Friday from 8 am-5 pm. For more information, call 307-688-8700 or visit www.cchwyo.org/kidclinic.

The Kid Clinic is a collaborative effort between Campbell County Health and Campbell County School District.