Danger Signs in Children
Paediatric Palliative Care
For Home Based Carers
Funded by
British High Commission, Pretoria
Small Grant Scheme
Danger Signs in Children
Some signs in a child are known as Danger signs
You need to know how to look for them
You can save a child’s life
Some are the same as in adults
Others are different
Important Questions to Ask Carers
Is the child more sleepy than normal?
Does the child know who you are?
Is the child more irritable than normal?
©TALC
Important Questions to Ask Carers
Is the child taking fluids as normal?
Is child having as many wet nappies as usual?
Are the nappies as wet?©TALC
Important Questions to Ask Carers
Has the child had a fit?
Does the child have difficulty in breathing?
If so: Is it affecting his feeding?
Does it stop him from talking or crying?
Important Danger Signs: Refer Immediately
General
Lethargy
Floppy
Increased tone: “stiff”
Fits
Unable to recognise family ©TALC
Important Danger Signs: Refer Immediately
Severe Dehydration
Lethargic or unconscious
Sunken eyes
Not able to drink or drinking poorly
Slow Skin Pinch©TALC
Important Danger Signs: Refer Immediately
Increased Respiratory rate with:
Cyanosis or
Chest indrawing or
Using neck muscles to help breath
©TALC