Child Nursing
Child (paediatric) nurses care for babies, children, and young people from birth to adolescence. They work in hospitals, community settings, schools, and specialist units. Child nursing is distinct from adult nursing because children have different physiological, psychological, and developmental needs.
Family-Centred Care
Family-centred care recognises the family as the constant in a child's life. Key principles include:
- Parents are partners in care
- Respecting the family's knowledge of their child
- Involving parents in decisions and care delivery
- Providing emotional and practical support to families
- Empowering parents to care for their child
Child Development
Understanding normal child development is essential for recognising abnormalities. Developmental milestones include:
- Newborn — Reflexes, responds to sound and light
- 3 months — Smiles, follows objects, holds head up
- 6 months — Sits with support, reaches for objects
- 12 months — Stands, says first words, waves goodbye
- 2 years — Runs, says simple sentences, uses spoon
- 3-5 years — Toilet trained, plays with others, language develops rapidly
Paediatric Assessment
The ABCDE approach applies to children but with age-appropriate modifications. The Paediatric Early Warning Score (PEWS) tracks deterioration. Key observations include respiratory rate, heart rate, oxygen saturation, temperature, and capillary refill time.
Common Paediatric Conditions
- Respiratory infections — Bronchiolitis (RSV), pneumonia, croup
- Asthma — Common in children, managed with inhalers
- Gastroenteritis — Vomiting and diarrhoea, risk of dehydration
- Febrile convulsions — Seizures caused by high temperature
- Allergies — Food allergies, eczema, anaphylaxis
- Type 1 diabetes — Autoimmune condition requiring insulin
- Childhood cancers — Leukaemia, brain tumours, lymphoma
Safe Sleeping (SIDS Prevention)
To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS): place babies on their back to sleep, with their feet at the foot of the cot, in a smoke-free environment. Avoid overheating and co-sleeping with parents who smoke, drink, or take drugs.
Safeguarding Children
All healthcare professionals have a duty to safeguard children. Recognise signs of abuse and neglect. Follow local safeguarding procedures. Know how to contact the safeguarding team. If in doubt, speak out.