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What to do when you or someone else is unwell - Westminster

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As you and your friends grow-up, become more independent and spend more time away from adults it is important for you to know what to do in an emergency. This may be the difference of life and death for someone your love and care about, you may even be the one to save an adult's life.

Find out more about First aid courses run by St Johns Ambulance.

What is the difference between a child and an adult for resuscitation?

All the guidance says the difference is puberty – please don’t check to see if someone has reached puberty no one needs that in the middle of an emergency. The reason they say puberty is because at puberty the way your body works changes and it is more likely you will have a problem with your heart as the main reason for needing resus whereas when you are younger it is more likely to be a problem with your breathing as the main reason for needing resus. The easiest way to decide is do what you think at the time – if they look like a child do the Child resus if they look like an adult do the Adult resus. If you’re not sure just do something as time is what matters and it’s important to start resus as soon as you have checked for danger and you know it’s safe for you.

Choking 

Recovery positions 

Resuscitation 

Burns and scalds

Stroke what it is and what to do

No matter how old you are when you feel unwell you probably want someone to look after you. If you are feeling unwell it’s important to talk your parents and carers so they can help you decide what to do.

If you are concerned and want to speak to a health professional you can contact your school nurse, practice nurse, GP or Pharmacist. For out of hours (weekends and evenings) advice call 111 and in an emergency call 999.

You can find out about lots of common health concerns at the NHS Health A to Z.

Meningitis signs and symptoms

Trying to decide when you should be off from school can be tricky. This NHS resource provides information on common illnesses and how to manage school attendance.

Sepsis, also known as septicaemia or blood poisoning is life threatening. It can be hard to spot and there are lots of possible symptoms. 

To find out more about Sepsis and how to spot the symptoms go to:

If you think you or someone you look after has symptoms of sepsis, call 999 or go to A&E. Trust your instincts.

Glandular fever mostly affects teenagers. It is very infectious and spread through spit. Someone with glandular fever is infectious for up to 7 weeks before getting symptoms.

Glandular fever gets better without treatment, but it can make you feel very ill and last for weeks.

Find out more about glandular fever here.