Do you have, or look after, a child? Download the free NHS HANDi App!

The HANDi App gives up-to-date advice about common childhood illnesses and how to treat them, including:

⏺ Diarrhoea and vomiting
⏺ ‘Chesty baby’ illnesses, such as bronchiolitis, asthma and croup
⏺ ‘Chesty child’ illnesses, such as wheezing and asthma
⏺ High temperature
⏺ Abdominal pain
⏺ Common newborn problems

Developed by NHS organisations in Devon, the HANDi Paediatric app is available to download for free onto any Apple or Android smartphone or tablet.

ANDROID: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.myoxygen.handi.taunton

APPLE: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/handi-paediatric/id969445171

This pathway has been developed in partnership between Health, Education and Social Care organisations to ensure that the reasons for a child or young person’s concerning behaviour are fully explored and that the right support is put in place, at the right time and in the right place.

This also includes assessments for possible ADHD and autism.

A paediatrician will not accept a GP referral, without the relevant support and assessments via the team being made. 

More information and toolkit can be found here.

A new online services for specialist information, support and help!

https://healthforunder5s.co.uk/

HVs can advise and assess babies and children under 5 years old, on a whole range of problems.

Please ring the Ashfield Advice Line team on 01623 484810 from 9am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

If your child is struggling with behavioural or emotional needs there is support available for your family.

The DadPad app is an easy-to-use, freely downloadable resource for new dads and dads-to-be. 

It is packed with relevant information, as well as details on local support groups and service providers.

The app also provides Dads with guidance on how to support and seek help (when needed) for their partners and themselves as they adjust to their new roles and cope with the physical and emotional strains that this can place on individuals and relationships.

The app covers topics such as:

• Feeding, holding, changing and cleaning your baby
• Surviving without sleep and coping with crying
• Getting to know your baby
• Home safety and first aid
• Looking after yourself and supporting your partner

Download it at: thedadpad.co.uk 

Information about the NHS vaccine schedule can be found at:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them/

What is conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is the infection or inflammation of the outer layer of the eye. It can occur in children and adults.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms include a watery discharge, sticky crust from either one or both eyes. It can be worse in the morning. You may also have signs of a cough, cold, runny nose or sinus issue.

Do I need antibiotics or drops?

Usually not. Viral conjunctivitis will not respond to antibiotics.

What can I do to treat it?

Clean the with a tissue or cotton pad with sterile water. Wash hands regularly and do not share towels, flannels and pillow cases to avoid infecting others

How long will it take to get better?

Usually 5 days

What should I look out for?

If you have any concerning symptoms such as very swollen eyelids, constant blurry vision (not cleared by blinking), or painful eyes, please present to Eye Casualty at QMC.

An oral fluid challenge is the best way of getting fluids into a child to try and prevent them becoming unwell from being dehydrated.

You should give your child 1ml/kg of fluid every 15 minutes. If you are unsure of their weight, please give 10ml every 15 minutes. You can use a syringe, cup, spoon or bottle to give the fluid. Use whatever is easiest for you and your child.

There are some different options for the drink used during an oral fluid challenge:
• Water or dilute fruit squash
• Dilute apple juice (diluted to half water and half apple juice). Avoid stronger, more concentrated fruit juice
• Breast milk (please note it is fine for mums to continue breast feeding if they have diarrhoea and vomiting)
• Oral rehydration drinks can be used. Always follow the preparation instructions on the packet and ensure these are appropriate for your child’s age.

You can start introducing a bland, light diet once your child seems to be getting a bit better. Start with foods such as soup, bread, rice or plain pasta.