British Red Cross: First Aid Steps for a Severe Allergic Reaction
British Red Cross: First Aid Steps for a Severe Allergic Reaction
With the warmer summer weather, it's likely you'll be spending more time outdoors with the little ones in your care. While this brings plenty of fun, it can also bring with it more exposure to allergens, such as pollen, bee or wasp stings, and unfamiliar foods, which may trigger severe allergic reactions.
A severe allergic reaction – or anaphylactic shock – can quickly affect a child, making it difficult for them to breathe.
If a child in your setting has a known severe allergy, you may have their auto-injector in an accessible location, which will help them in case something triggers a severe allergic reaction.
How to help:
1. Call 999 immediately or get someone else to do it.
2. If the child has an adrenaline auto-injector, you can help them to use it or do it for them, by following the instructions on the side.
3. Reassure them and make them comfortable while you wait for the ambulance to arrive.
Paediatric first aid training
Our two-day EYFS compliant first aid course is ideal for people who work with young children, such as nursery staff or childminders. Book online today!
Don't forget, if you're a Morton Michel policyholder you can get 10% discount on the British Red Cross' paediatric training courses through Morton Michel's exclusive ChildCare Club. Find out more here.