Paediatric first aid is giving care to a child/infant (anyone under the age of 16) who has been injured, or who has become ill prior to the arrival of qualified medical assistance. It is especially beneficial to those who work in full-time childcare and in schools. Under The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Ofsted requirements, there must be at least one person who holds a current Paediatric First Aid certificate on the premises at all times when children are present, including school trips.
The ‘3 Ps’ summarises the aims of the first aider:
- Preserve life.
- Prevent the situation from worsening.
- Promote recovery.