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Toxins in household dust may be harmful to kids
Most of the dust that coats your furniture and floors comes from outdoors and can pose a health threat, a new study suggests.
BPA in canned foods could harm children, group says
Measurable levels of the chemical additive bisphenol A (BPA) were found in a variety of canned goods, including some that claimed to be BPA-free, according to an analysis released this week by the nonprofit advocacy group Consumers Union.
Toxic toys? Health group finds high lead levels
Children's toys carrying the Barbie and Disney logos have turned up with high levels of lead in them, according to a California-based advocacy group — a finding that may give consumers pause as they shop for the holiday season.
Creating the Home Medical Kit
Creating the Home Medical Kit
There's nothing more frightening than when your baby gets hurt. That's why it's vital to have a home medical kit at your fingertips, so you are prepared to deal with minor trauma. In the case of a true emergency, call 911!

Here are some items to include in your home medical kit:

Thermometer
Your best bet is a digital rectal thermometer for a baby and a digital oral thermometer for an older child. For quick temperature readings, you may want to purchase an ear thermometer, such as the Braun Thermoscan, though these are not as accurate. Most doctors' offices will ask how you took the child's temperature: orally, rectally or underarm.

Over-the-Counter Medications
Make sure you have baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen for lowering fever and relieving pain. You may also want to have baby cold medicines and anti-allergy medications such as Benadryl. Medicine cups and droppers are also important, to measure the dosage.

Prescription Medications
If your child requires prescription medication, always have it on hand. Include a copy of the prescription and the pediatrician's phone number.

Tweezers
These are important for removing splinters or other foreign objects.

Bandages
Have plenty of Band-Aids on hand, as well as sterile gauze pads. You may also want to purchase some medical tape to secure the gauze.

Wet Wipes
Wipes are handy for cleaning up scrapes and many other situations. Flushable wipes are available as well.

Suction Bulb Syringe
You should have received this from the hospital, but if not, it is available at drug stores. You may need it to remove mucous from your baby's nose or throat.

Antibiotic OintmentKeep this type of ointment, such as Neosporin, on hand to soothe cuts and scrapes, and prevent infection.

Waterproof Sunscreen
Use SPF 30, for babies 6 months and older. You can use small amounts on babies younger than 6 months.

Insect Repellent
Buy child-friendly repellant and keep away from eyes and other vulnerable areas. Use a pump rather than a spray for more targeted application.

Hydrocortisone Cream
Use this, or Calamine lotion, to soothe sunburn, rashes and insect stings.

Syrup of Ipecac
This substance is used to induce vomiting if a child swallows a poisonous substance. However, do not use without consulting your local poison control center.

Electrolyte Replacement Drink
Pedialyte helps prevent dehydration and replaces nutrients lost during bouts of diarrhea. You also can use Gatorade, though it's not as well-suited for kids.

Ice Pack
The use of ice is recommended to reduce swelling from burns and bumps.

First Aid Manual
The American Red Cross First Aid and Safety Handbook by Kathleen Handal M.D. and Elizabeth H. Dole is a great resource.

Make sure you contact your baby's physician whenever an injury is sustained. When it comes to your child's health, it really is better to be safe than sorry!