As parents, one of our top priorities is to keep our children healthy and safe. However, accidents and illnesses can happen, and sometimes kids need to be hospitalized for treatment.

According to a study published in the Journal of Hospital Medicine, there are certain steps parents can take to reduce their child’s risk of hospitalization by up to 24 times. Here are some ways to keep your child healthy and avoid a hospital stay:.

1. Make Sure Your Child Receives Vaccinations

Vaccinations protect children from serious and often life-threatening illnesses, such as measles, mumps, and whooping cough. When more children are vaccinated in a community, the risk of disease transmission is reduced, making outbreaks less likely.

Vaccinations are especially important for children with chronic conditions, such as asthma or diabetes, as these children are more vulnerable to infections that could lead to hospitalization.

2. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Teach your child to wash their hands frequently, especially before meals and after using the bathroom.

Encourage them to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and to avoid touching their face or mouth. Avoid sharing utensils, towels, and other personal items that can harbor germs.

3. Keep Your Child Up-to-Date with Well-Child Exams and Screenings

Regular well-child exams and screenings can help identify potential health issues before they become serious.

Your child’s doctor will check your child’s growth and development, listen to their heart and lungs, and perform vision and hearing tests. The doctor may also recommend blood tests or other diagnostic tests if necessary. Keeping your child up-to-date with these exams can help catch health issues early, preventing the need for hospitalization.

4. Ensure Proper Nutrition and Exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep your child’s body strong and resilient. Encourage your child to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary and processed foods as much as possible.

Encourage your child to be physically active every day, whether it’s through organized sports, playing outside, or simply going for a walk. Proper nutrition and exercise can help prevent obesity, which is a risk factor for many health problems.

5. Take Precautions Against Accidents and Injuries

Accidents and injuries are a leading cause of hospitalization for children.

Take precautions to ensure that your child stays safe, such as using car seats and seat belts correctly, ensuring that your home is child-proofed, and supervising your child during outdoor activities. Teach your child about safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing the street, wearing a helmet while riding a bike, and not touching hot stoves.

6. Manage Chronic Health Conditions Carefully

If your child has a chronic health condition, such as asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy, it’s important to manage it carefully.

Make sure your child takes any medications or treatments as prescribed, and keep regular appointments with your child’s healthcare provider. Learn as much as you can about your child’s condition and how to manage it effectively. Monitor your child for any symptoms that may indicate a flare-up or exacerbation of their condition and seek medical attention promptly if necessary.

7. Seek Prompt Medical Attention for Illnesses and Injuries

When your child is sick or injured, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Delaying treatment can lead to a worsening of symptoms or even hospitalization.

Keep a first aid kit at home and learn basic first aid skills, such as how to treat cuts, burns, and sprains. If your child has a fever or other symptoms of illness, contact your healthcare provider for advice on whether your child needs to be seen in person.

8. Ensure Your Child Gets Enough Sleep

Adequate sleep is important for both physical and mental health. Children who don’t get enough sleep may be more susceptible to illness and injury. Encourage your child to establish a regular bedtime routine and to get enough sleep each night.

For younger children, ensure that nap times are built into the daily schedule. Limit screen time before bedtime, as exposure to blue light from electronic devices can interfere with sleep.

9. Promote Good Mental Health

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Encourage your child to talk to you about their feelings and emotions. Provide a supportive and loving home environment that promotes positive mental health.

Seek professional help if your child experiences symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues.

10. Foster Strong Relationships with Healthcare Providers

Establishing a good relationship with your child’s healthcare providers can help ensure that your child receives the best possible care.

Seek out healthcare providers who are experienced in treating children and who take the time to listen to your concerns. Keep track of your child’s medical history and bring this information with you to appointments. Ask questions and clarify any instructions or recommendations.

By working together with your child’s healthcare providers, you can help keep your child healthy and avoid hospitalization.