Recently, I learned about a medical bracelet for allergies. This accessory is useful and necessary for children and will come in handy in daycare, school, and on trips. A cute silicone band on the wrist will make the life of a little allergy sufferer easier and prevent unwanted contact with food allergens.
A medical bracelet for a child is the same as an allergy card for an adult, only much more convenient. The bracelet is difficult to lose and cannot be forgotten. It serves as a signal to all adults around – be careful, the child has an allergy.
In Russia, I have not yet met children with such bracelets, but European kids wear them with pleasure. Once in a hotel restaurant, I noticed how a waiter offered certain dishes to a girl with a bracelet on her hand.
I became interested and learned from the girl’s parents that she is allergic to peanuts and sesame seeds. The girl wears two bracelets with pictures of these allergens.
European allergists have long taught parents of allergy sufferers to use bracelets. Medical professionals and food service workers have learned to recognize the allergy bracelet and respond to it correctly.
Such bracelets are worn not only by children and not only by allergy sufferers. Asthmatics, patients with diabetes, and other dangerous diseases whose lives may depend on a quick response to a sudden attack also wear them.
What types of bracelets are there?
The most affordable and common bracelets are made of silicone. However, you can choose a bracelet made of medical-grade stainless steel, leather, or precious metals. The main thing is that the accessory is clearly visible.
Technology enthusiasts can look for a programmable smart bracelet that connects to a smartphone via Bluetooth. However, it’s unclear to me at the moment how allergens will be read from such a bracelet and how quickly it can be done.
How to choose a medical bracelet
- The bracelet should be easily noticeable.
- Try to choose a bracelet that is difficult to confuse with ordinary jewelry.
- It’s better if the allergens are printed on the bracelet.
- Choose a bracelet that fits well on the wrist.
- When traveling, it’s a good idea to bring a spare bracelet.
What to do if a child refuses to wear a bracelet
- Don’t insist, find out the reason, and try to find an alternative solution.
- It’s important to create positive associations.
- Make sure the child doesn’t associate the bracelet with illness, medicine, or anything unpleasant.
- The child should not feel special.
- Buy a similar bracelet for yourself and wear it if necessary.
- Let the child choose their own bracelet, in their preferred color and with attractive designs.
- Create an exciting story about superheroes who use miraculous bracelets to save lives and fight villains.