While working with children it can be difficult sometimes to work out what might be the matter with children. This following might help: Common cold / Flu– sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, headache, body – ache Gastroenteritis – vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration
Tonsillitis – sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, fever, headache, aches and pains Scarlet fever – fever, loss of appetite, sore throat, pale around mouth, “strawberry tongue”, rash over face and body Dysentery – vomiting, diarrhoea with blood and mucus, abdominal pain, fever, headache Chickenpox – fever, itchy rash with blister-like appearance Measles – fever, runny nose, cough, white spots in mouth, blotchy rash Mumps – painful, swollen jaw, painful swallowing, fever
Rubella (German measles) – runny nose, sore throat, headache, slight pink rash Meningitis – fever, headache, irritability, drowsiness, dislike of light, stiff neck, small red spots beneath the skin that doesn’t disappear when pressed Impetigo – red sores around mouth and nose developing into yellow – brown crusts Ringworm – Skin ringworm: ring like red rash with raised rim, Scalp ringworm: scaly patches on scalp which may feel inflamed and tender
Actions to take
All organisations must have one qualified first aider. Many childhood illnesses are caused by viruses. In certain cases the children must stay away from school but the length of time may vary between the type of illness and children. School policies and procedures to take action when a child is ill or in an emergency situation should be followed. In cases of minor injuries the children might not require to be sent home and can be dealt with in the school. Reporting and recording details of actions taken is quite significant. Urgent medical attention
If you believe a severe injury or illness is threatening a child’s health then emergency medical treatment must be given right away. Some cases include the following:
•Severe bleeding
•Unconsciousness
•Choking
•Breathing difficulties like asthma
•Head injuries / suspected fractures
•Anaphylaxis
•Sickle cell disease
•Diabetes
•Epileptic attack
•Intake of drugs or abused substances
Actions in response to emergency situations
In order for schools to be effective during emergency situations, they must have a comprehensive plan of procedures. We should be aware of every instance whether it is fire, security incidents and other emergencies. In case of Fire information must be displayed on raising the alarm, calling fire brigade, evacuation and know the assembly point. Security in place to minimise the risk to child’s welfare. The procedures to follow should include: •CRB and reference checked staff should be recruited
•Registration
•Signing – in procedures
•Security locks
•Procedures for collection of younger children
In case of a missing child following actions must be taken:
•Search areas in and outside school site
•Contact police to aid in search and parents to ensure someone is at home in case child returns there
•School cooperates fully with any investigations
•Head teacher to inform required authorities