Fall from the changing table: first aid measures

Skull injuries from falling off the changing table

Skull injuries are particularly common in babies because their heads are relatively large compared to their bodies. You can find tips on how to provide first aid in an emergency in our post on head injuries . Even if the little ones cannot walk yet, they are able to roll quickly from one side to the other at an early age. As long as you’re changing your child’s diaper on the floor, nothing will happen when your child rolls around merrily, but if you put them on a changing table, you have to be particularly careful. That’s why you should never leave your baby unattended on the changing table.

Baby safe diaper

You should pay attention to the following points to avoid falling off the changing table:

• Before changing diapers, have all the utensils ready so that you don’t have to turn your back on your child looking for cleaning wipes or a new diaper.
• Never leave your baby unattended on the changing table. Not even when the phone rings, the milk boils over or your other children are demanding of you. In such situations, it is better to put your baby back in his crib or on the floor where he is safe.
• Your changing table should be secured on the sides by side protection. When buying, make sure that these protective walls are available .
• The changing mat should be made of non-slip material (terry cloth is very suitable for this). The risk of your child slipping away is then not quite as great, but you still have to be careful.
• If you do have to turn away from the table, always keep one hand on your baby to keep it under control.

Fall from the changing table: what to do if the baby falls

If your baby has fallen off the changing table, you should pick it up carefully and lay it down in front of you.

Signs of a serious head injury include:

• When your child’s consciousness is clouded and they react in a daze
• When your baby moves unnaturally and does not reach for toys that are offered
• If your baby throws up a few hours after the accident (suspected concussion)
• When there is swelling in the skull
• Check it for bruises and abrasions all over its body, because it’s not just your baby’s head that can be injured in a fall

If even one of the points mentioned applies, you must immediately consult a doctor. If your baby vomits shortly after falling off the changing table or has lost consciousness, call the emergency services immediately!