When James was 9 months old, he had a febrile convulsion. At the time both of us panicked and if it had not been for the Ambulance lady shouting very loudly at me to get him in the recovery position, remove his clothes and cool him down, we would have just froze! Keeping calm is easier said than done when it is your child having problems and you have to deal with it. Both of us had first aid training for work, but I wish I had done more to learn about child first aid to give me confidence to deal with this sort of situation.

We did end up at the hospital with him to check him over, and they did tell us that it was quite common for children but it didn't make it easier to deal with, which I think was their intention. I hope this helps you become aware and knowledgable but that you never have to use it.

Febrile Convulsions

A febrile convulsion occurs as a result of an infection and high temperature, normally affecting young children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years

Recognition

• Signs of a fever including flushed red face, sweating, high temperature and hot forehead
• Eyes rolling back, fixed or squinted
• Muscular stiffening and arching of the back
• Clenched fists
• Possible blue tinge to the lips

Treatment

• The aim of the treatment is controlled cooling of the child and to maintain their safety
• Remove clothing and bedclothes
• Ventilate room - it should feel cool but not cold
• Clear space around child to prevent injury
• Continue to reduce temperature by tepid sponging. Using a sponge, gently wipe the child with luke warm (not cold) water
• Continue to monitor temperature
• Once cooled and convulsion has ceased place in the recovery position
• Cover with cotton sheet
• Call doctor
• If temperature rises again, repeat tepid sponging procedure.

We are not experts in first aid, this is just a guide from us to assist you, if you want to learn more about First Aid for Children you should contact your local health service and find out what courses are available in your area.