Figure 9.1 Observation Figure 9.2 Things to consider when a child or young person is in distress This section will focus on observation of the sick child, in practical steps, and will work in conjunction with a recognized paediatric early warning tool (PEW), effective communication and multi-professional team working. Assessment of children and young people is vital, and measurement and monitoring of vital signs are important basic skills for all practitioners (RCN 2011: 2). This needs to be a systematic process and the views of parents/carers must be included. A baseline of vital signs including ‘temperature, heart/pulse rate, respiratory rate and effort, blood pressure, pain assessment and level of consciousness of all infants, children and young people are initially assessed, measured and recorded on attending hospital and at varying frequencies from then on.’ (RCN, 2011: 5). Assessment needs to be a continuous process to be alert for changes. It is vital to measure, record and monitor the respiratory rate, ‘as a measure of either respiratory distress, or more systemic problems such as septicaemia.’ (Spotting the sick child, 2012). To measure the respiratory rate accurately, count each breath over a minute (RCN, 2011: 6). Crying or coughing can alter the rate considerably, so try and count when the child is calm.
9
Observation of the sick child
Introduction
The importance of observation
Respiratory rate
Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Full access? Get Clinical Tree
