Don't give your baby anything to eat or drink to comfort her, as it may cause a delay in medical treatment. All of the ICES steps may not apply to your child's injury, but it's an easy way to remember what to do when you suspect a sprain or fracture. Ice decreases pain and swelling. Wrap some ice cubes in a dish towel or plastic bag and crush them by banging on the kitchen counter or smashing them with a hammer, or simply grab a bag of frozen veggies from the freezer and wrap it in a towel. Hold the ice pack against the injured area.
Compression decreases swelling.
Wrap an elastic bandage on an injured limb, make it snug but loose enough to stick one finger between the bandage and the skin. Elevation decreases pain and swelling. Place a pillow under the affected limb so that it's elevated approximately 6 inches. Support helps immobilize the limb and reduces pain. Splint the affected limb or, if you suspect a broken arm, rib, or collar bone, use a cloth or diaper sling to hold an arm in a bent position next to the body.