PFA Mini Refresher—Responding to Emergencies in Early Years
A practical Paediatric First Aid mini refresher for PFA-certified early years practitioners.
Focused on recognising emergencies, carrying out the primary survey, managing high-risk situations, and knowing when to escalate and call 999.
Focused on recognising emergencies, carrying out the primary survey, managing high-risk situations, and knowing when to escalate and call 999.
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Course Contents
This mini refresher course covers:
Clarifies who the refresher is for, how it supports daily practice, and how it differs from the full statutory Paediatric First Aid qualification.
Why Emergency Assessment Matters in Early Years
Explores why rapid and accurate assessment is critical due to the way young children can deteriorate quickly.
What Counts as an Emergency
Defines emergencies in early years and builds confidence in recognising situations that require immediate action.
Your Responsibility as a Paediatric First Aider
Reinforces the PFA’s duty to prioritise child safety and act decisively in line with training and setting procedures.
The Primary Survey
Introduces the structured primary survey as the foundation for safe and effective emergency response.
Danger and Scene Safety
Develops awareness of environmental risks and the importance of ensuring safety before approaching a child.
Assessing Response, Airway, and Breathing
Builds confidence in checking responsiveness, maintaining an open airway, and recognising abnormal breathing.
Knowing When Immediate Action Is Required
Identifies the critical signs that demand urgent first aid and emergency escalation.
Leading the Emergency Response as the PFA
Supports PFAs to coordinate help, delegate tasks, and lead care while following emergency procedures.
Managing Severe Bleeding
Strengthens competence in responding to heavy bleeding and understanding when bleeding becomes life-threatening.
Responding to Head Injuries
Develops confidence in identifying red-flag head injury symptoms and escalating appropriately.
When and How to Call 999
Provides clear thresholds for contacting emergency services without delay.
Communicating with Parents and Carers
Clarifies when and how to contact parents once immediate risks have been managed.
Staying Calm and Decisive Under Pressure
Builds confidence in maintaining composure and applying training effectively during emergencies.
Recording, Reporting, and Reflecting After an Emergency
Reinforces the importance of accurate documentation and reflective practice for safeguarding and improvement.
Key Messages and Course Completion
Consolidates the most important emergency response principles and prepares learners for the knowledge check and next steps.
