Free Paediatric First Aid Course

A Paediatric First Aid Course is designed to equip caregivers, parents, and professionals who work with children with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond effectively to medical emergencies involving infants and children. Here are some key elements typically covered in such a course:

Course Content:

1. Understanding Child Development:
   • Recognizing the differences between adult and child physiology.
   • Understanding developmental stages and their implications for first aid.
2. Assessment of the Situation:
   • Scene safety.
   • Primary assessment (checking responsiveness, breathing, and circulation).
3. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):
   • Child CPR techniques (1 year to puberty).
   • Infant CPR techniques (under 1 year).
   • Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
4. Choking:
   • Signs of choking in infants and children.
   • First aid procedures for choking, including back blows and abdominal thrusts.
5. Wounds and Bleeding:
   • How to manage cuts, scrapes, and bleeding.
   • When to seek medical help.
6. Burns and Scalds:
   • Types of burns and appropriate first aid response.
   • Treatment for scalds and sunburns.
7. Recognizing and Responding to Illnesses:
   • Symptoms of common childhood illnesses (e.g., asthma, diabetes).
   • Managing allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
8. Managing Seizures:
   • Recognizing seizures and first aid response.
9. Injuries:
   • Treatment for fractures, sprains, and strains.
   • How to deal with head injuries.
10. Emergency Procedures:
    • When to call for emergency medical help.
    • Creating an emergency action plan.

Course Format:

• Duration: Typically 1-2 days, with practical and theoretical components.
• Hands-On Practice: Participants often engage in practical scenarios, using mannequins to practice CPR and other skills.
• Certification: Many courses provide a recognized certificate upon completion, valid for a specific period (commonly 2 or 3 years).

Who Should Attend?

• Parents and guardians.
• Childcare providers and educators.
• Anyone responsible for the care of children, such as coaches and babysitters.

Benefits of Taking the Course:

• Confidence in handling emergencies involving children.
• Knowledge of child-specific first aid techniques.
• Ability to recognize critical signs and symptoms in children.

Before enrolling, it’s advisable to check the course provider’s accreditation, the qualifications of instructors, and reviews from former participants to ensure a high-quality learning experience.