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3.17.2: In the event of sudden child illness

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    41681
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    Emergency Procedure: In the Event of Sudden Child Illness

    Purpose

         To ensure the health and safety of all children, this procedure provides clear steps for staff to follow when a child becomes suddenly ill while at the program. Prompt and appropriate action minimizes the risk to the child and others in the program.


     

    Procedure

    1. Immediate Response

    1. Assess the Child’s Condition:
      • Observe for symptoms such as fever, vomiting, difficulty breathing, rash, or unusual behavior.
      • Stay calm and reassure the child while assessing the situation.
      • If the illness appears life-threatening (e.g., severe allergic reaction, seizure, or difficulty breathing), call 911 immediately.
    2. Separate the Child:
      • Move the child to a quiet, supervised area away from other children to prevent the spread of illness.
      • Ensure the child is comfortable and monitored by a staff member at all times.
    3. Provide Basic First Aid (if applicable):
      • Follow first aid protocols if necessary (e.g., assist with prescribed medication for asthma, cool compress for fever).
      • Avoid administering medication unless authorized by the child’s emergency medical plan.

     

    2. Notification

    1. Inform the Director:
      • Notify the center director or designated supervisor immediately.
      • Provide details of the child’s symptoms and actions taken.
    2. Contact the Parent/Guardian:
      • Call the child’s parent/guardian immediately to inform them of the situation.
      • Provide clear information about the child’s condition and request prompt pick-up if necessary.
      • If the parent/guardian is unavailable, contact the emergency contacts listed on the child’s file.

     

    3. Documentation

    1. Record Details:
      • Complete an Incident Report Form, including:
        • The child’s symptoms.
        • Time and location of the incident.
        • Actions taken (e.g., first aid, parent notification).
      • Note any verbal or written instructions received from the parent/guardian or emergency services.
    2. Update Records:
      • Record any changes in the child’s condition until the parent/guardian or emergency personnel arrive.
      • File the completed Incident Report Form in the child’s record.

     

    4. Follow-Up

    1. Ensure the Child is Picked Up:
      • Release the child only to an authorized parent/guardian or emergency contact.
      • Provide the parent/guardian with details of the incident and any recommendations for medical care.
    2. Clean and Disinfect:
      • Clean and sanitize any areas or materials the child came into contact with.
      • Follow the center’s universal precautions to prevent the spread of illness.
    3. Inform Other Families (if necessary):
      • If the illness is contagious (e.g., chickenpox, flu), notify other families while maintaining confidentiality.
      • Provide recommendations for monitoring symptoms in their children.

     

    Responsibilities

    Staff

    • Monitor children for signs of illness and respond promptly.
    • Follow all steps outlined in this procedure and notify the director and parent/guardian immediately.

    Director

    • Support staff in responding to the situation.
    • Ensure proper documentation and communication with the child’s family.
    • Review the incident to identify any additional steps or preventive measures needed.

    By adhering to this procedure, staff can ensure the child receives appropriate care while minimizing disruption and risk to the rest of the program.


    3.17.2: In the event of sudden child illness is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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