clothes when walking before dawn or after dusk. Wear light colors and reflective gear to be visible to drivers. Parents and caregivers should be mindful that small children often can’t be seen when backing up. Before backing out of a driveway, walk around
the vehicle to check for children or toys. For a great, kid-friendly app on safe walking with these basic rules, go to safekids.org/howtowalk.
PREGNANCY AND TRAUMA
THE NUMBERS — In all, 101 pregnant women were treated in University Hospital’s trauma center in 2017.
THE PROBLEM — Any injury in pregnancy should be taken seriously. One in 12 pregnancies includes a trauma-related complication, and injuries are the leading non-obstetric cause of death among pregnant women. And although nine out of 10 traumatic injuries during pregnancy are considered minor, they can have serious consequences. Between 60 percent and 70 percent of fetal losses after trauma are due to minor injuries.
THE RECOMMENDATIONS — Use extra caution and do not engage in distracted driving during pregnancy. Put away your cell phone and don’t eat while driving. While it may be uncomfortable, wear your seatbelt. Four out of five fetal deaths from car crashes are due to mothers not wearing seatbelts.
The shoulder belt should lay across your chest between your breasts and away from your neck. Move the lap belt below your belly so it fits snugly across your hips and pelvic bone, NEVER across your belly. Adjust your seat to keep as much distance as possible between your belly and the steering wheel, yet close enough to comfortably reach the pedals. Do not turn off the airbag. Keep at least 10 inches between your chest and the steering wheel or dashboard so that the seatbelt and airbag can provide the best protection for you and your unborn child. If you are in a crash, call your provider as special monitoring may be recommended.
/howtowalk
/howtowalk
/howtowalk
/howtowalk
