Module 4: Medical Emergencies in Paediatrics

Welcome to Module 4 of the Paediatric First Aid Level 3 course. This module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to manage a range of medical emergencies in children. You will learn to recognise signs and symptoms, provide immediate care, and understand your legal responsibilities under UK law.

Objectives:

• Recognise common paediatric medical emergencies and their signs and symptoms.
• Learn immediate care steps for various paediatric medical emergencies.
• Understand UK legislation and guidelines relevant to managing paediatric medical emergencies.

Common Paediatric Medical Emergencies

1. Asthma Attacks
   • Recognition and management of asthma symptoms in children.
   • The importance of accessing and administering reliever inhalers.
2. Allergic Reactions
   • Identifying signs of mild to severe allergic reactions.
   • Administration of antihistamines and epinephrine (using auto-injectors like EpiPen).
3. Seizures
   • Types of seizures in children and immediate care steps.
   • Post-seizure care and when to seek medical help.

UK Laws and Guidelines

1. Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981
   • Ensure the provision of first aid to children under your care.
   • URL: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1981/917/contents/made
2. Children Act 1989
   • Acting in the best interest of the child’s welfare and safeguarding.
   • URL: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1989/41/contents
3. The Human Medicines Regulations 2012
   • Guidelines for the administration of medication in emergency situations.
   • URL: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/1916/contents/made
4. Data Protection Act 2018
   • Handling and sharing medical information of the child.
   • URL: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2018/12/contents/enacted

Practical Skills

• Medication Administration: Correct technique for administering inhalers and auto-injectors.
• Seizure Management: Safeguarding the child during a seizure, post-seizure care.
• Emergency Action Planning: Creating action plans for children with known medical conditions.

Further Study and References

• Asthma UK: Provides resources on managing asthma in children.
  • URL: https://www.asthma.org.uk
• Anaphylaxis Campaign: Offers guidance on recognising and responding to severe allergic reactions.
  • URL: https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk
• Epilepsy Action: Information on epilepsy and seizure management.
  • URL: https://www.epilepsy.org.uk

Conclusion

This module provides an overview of managing paediatric medical emergencies, including legal responsibilities and practical care skills. Regular training, awareness of legal obligations, and readiness to act can significantly impact the health outcomes of children in emergencies. Stay informed, prepared, and proactive in paediatric first aid care.