Page 3 Session 3 DRABCD

A=Airways

OPENING THE CHILD'S AIRWAYS

Learning to open the child's/Infants airway using the head and chin tilt method is a life saving skill, It is important that all paediatric first aider's learn the basics of airway management.

NOTE!

Unconscious means unresponsive but breathing.

This is important terminology and should be remembered throughout this course.

The Head & Chin Tilt

Place the palm of one hand on top of the child's forehead. Place your other hand on the bone of the child' chin and gently tilt the head back.

The Aim of the Head & Chin Tilt

The tongue is a large muscle and will fall to the back of the child's throat, obstructing the airway and cause death. By tilting the head back we lift the tongue of the back of the child's throat allowing them to breath effectively.

A golden rule is never to leave a Child/Infant on their back alone. Should you leave the child then they must be placed into the recovery position.

Head & Chin Tilt (Infants/Babies)

The head and chin tilt is slightly different, use the palm of the hand on the forehead and only one- two fingers placed on the bone of the babies chin. Only tilt the babies head half way back as over stretching may cause the babies airways to narrow.

Page 4 Session 3 DRABCD

B=Breathing

Checking For Breathing

The next steps are very important

1. Place your ear a few millimetres above the

child/infants mouth and nose.

2. Listen for their breathing.

3. Feel the breath on your face and ear.

4. Watch the rise and fall of the chest as they breath.

Do this for a GOOD 10 Seconds

Breathing

Yes or NO

Agonal Gasp

The agonal gasp is common in the first few moments of cardiac arrest and must not be mistaken as a response or breathing from the child.

The child may be making rasping noises or gulping for air. This is not normal breathing.

Breathing Normal

When the child is breathing normal you must treat them as a unconscious casualty. The child should be placed in the recovery position and the Baby/Infant should go with you to

make the 999/112 call.

By Clicking "NEXT" we will look at a child who is

breathing and unconscious this is called.

Unconscious Casualty Management