AS EASTER approaches, many people in Scotland will be dusting down the tools or lawnmower as they prepare to make the most of the holiday weekend. For NHS 24’s 111 service that means an increase in calls because people have injured themselves in DIY accidents.
As part of its Be Health-Wise this Easter campaign, NHS 24 is urging DIY and gardening enthusiasts to take care and be prepared to deal with any minor accidents before tackling those all-important home and garden improvements.
Dr Anna Lamont, Associate Medical Director at NHS 24, said: “Easter is one of our busiest times so we’re asking people to take a few simple steps and re-stocking their first aid box so any budding painters, builders and carpenters can help ensure they stay safe this spring.
“Treatments for minor injuries, such as plasters and antiseptic, are always useful to have at home and your local pharmacy can help with advice about how to treat any minor cuts, bumps, bruises and scrapes.
“A quick check online at www.nhsinform.scot is also a good idea – there are self-help guides that can help you to help yourself, or tell you the right place to get support. This is especially useful if you run out of a repeat prescription, which is another really common reason people call NHS 24’s 111 service. The Access to Medicines guide at www.nhsinform.scot can help you get enough to last until your GP surgery reopens.”
The key steps that Be Health-Wise this Easter recommends are:
Restock your medicine cabinet if needed
Minor injuries such as small burns, scratches, knocks and cuts can often be effectively treated at home with readily available treatment such as pain relief, plasters, iodine, antiseptic cream and wipes, gauze and tape. Parents are also reminded to restock their medicine cabinet with child-friendly remedies.
Use your local pharmacy
Your pharmacist can offer advice or help if you need over-the-counter remedies or have run out of any prescribed medication.
Know when your GP surgery will be open
Your local doctor’s surgery may be closed for four days during the Easter weekend from Friday March 30th to Monday April 2nd.
General advice and information on how to stay healthy this Easter can be found at www.nhsinform.scot or contact NHS inform on 0800 22 44 88.
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