Prepared Not Scared

If everyone starts sneezing the minute the wattle blooms, it might not be a cold: it’s probably hayfever. In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah explain what hayfever (allergic rhinitis) actually is, how to spot the difference from a virus, and what you can do to manage it.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ What hayfever (allergic rhinitis) actually is, and why it’s not a cold ▶︎ Seasonal vs perennial hayfever and common triggers ▶︎ How hayfever affects kids, adults, and those with asthma or eczema ▶︎ Practical prevention: checking pollen forecasts, closing windows, and post-outdoor showers ▶︎ Treatment options: antihistamines, nasal sprays, and saline rinses ▶︎ How to help children recognise early symptoms ▶︎ Why managing hayfever improves sleep, focus, and overall wellbeing   Additional Resources: Pollen Forecasts: www.pollenforecast.com.au Learn more about managing childhood illness at Sick Happens Find paediatric first aid training at Paeds Education   Saline rinse information Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you’ve heard on this podcast.

Welcome back to Prepared Not Scared. This is *the* podcast that helps parents feel prepared, not scared, when illness or injury strikes. In Season 3, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah dive into the everyday health worries that send families searching for answers. From hayfever and thunderstorm asthma to dehydration, hand, foot and mouth disease, and more, they unpack what’s happening, why it happens, and how to handle it calmly. This season is full of practical guidance, real stories, and simple steps to make sick days less stressful for everyone. Because sickness is inevitable, but panic doesn’t have to be.  

Dehydration isn’t just about feeling thirsty, it’s when the body runs low on the fluid it needs to function, and it can happen faster than you think, especially in kids. In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah break down what dehydration really is, who’s most at risk, and how to spot the early signs before things escalate.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ What dehydration actually means (and why thirst isn’t the first sign) ▶︎ Why babies and kids dehydrate faster than adults ▶︎ Early warning signs: from dry lips to no tears ▶︎ Common triggers: heat, illness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and busy play ▶︎ How dehydration can impact mood, energy, and brain function ▶︎ Tips for prevention: water breaks, fun cups, and healthy hydration habits ▶︎ What to do if your child becomes dehydrated ▶︎ When dehydration becomes an emergency     A big thanks to our sponsor, Kidhy, for supporting this episode of Prepared Not Scared. If you’ve ever tried to convince a sick child to take just one sip of water, or watched a full drink bottle come home from preschool, you’re not alone. That’s exactly why two Aussie mums created Hydra Helpa by Kidhy: a tasty hydrating water infusion made just for kids, with added electrolytes, prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy tummies and growing bodies. Hydra Helpa is designed to help kids stay hydrated: on sick days, hot days, and even the “I don’t like water” days. Learn more (and try it for yourself) at kidhy.com

Understanding Pain in Children: How to Recognise and Relieve It Safely Pain in children can be tricky, especially when they’re too young to explain what hurts. In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah unpack how to recognise, assess, and manage pain in babies, toddlers, and older kids. They cover how pain presents in non-verbal children, common causes like teething, illness, or minor injuries, and how to tell the difference between general discomfort and signs that something more serious is going on. You’ll learn practical non-medication strategies to soothe your child, as well as how to use paracetamol and ibuprofen safely and effectively. Penny and Sarah also bust a few common myths around pain relief and fever, and share essential tips for tracking medication to avoid accidental overdose. When you’re exhausted and worried, having a clear system really matters. This episode will leave you feeling informed, calm, and confident the next time your child is in pain.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ Signs of pain in babies and non-verbal children ▶︎ Common causes of pain: teething, illness, injury, post-surgery ▶︎ Comfort-based care: cuddles, distraction, breastfeeding, and more ▶︎ Using paracetamol and ibuprofen safely ▶︎ How to avoid double dosing with medication trackers ▶︎ What to do if your child vomits medicine ▶︎ When pain is a red flag and you need to see a doctor ▶︎ Myths about fever and pain relief, and what you really need to know   Additional Resources: Medicine Tracker Poisons Hotline 131126 Medicine Hotline 1300MEDICINE  Learn more about managing childhood illness at Sick Happens Find paediatric first aid training at Paeds Education    Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

Understanding and managing childhood rashes: Practical tips for parents Rashes can be one of the most confusing and anxiety-inducing symptoms in childhood. In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah break down what’s normal, what’s not, and how to confidently assess and manage your child’s rash. They explain the different types of rashes: viral, allergic, heat-related, and bacterial, and guide you through the “blanching vs non-blanching” test to help you recognise red flags early. You’ll also learn when to seek medical attention, how to manage itchy or painful rashes at home, and what to know about contagious rashes and childcare exclusions. This episode is packed with practical, no-panic advice to help you feel more in control when those mystery spots appear.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ Common types of rashes in kids: viral, allergic, heat, and bacterial ▶︎ The glass test: how to identify non-blanching rashes ▶︎ Red flags: fever, irritability, vomiting, behaviour changes ▶︎ Home care tips: antihistamines, cool compresses, infection prevention ▶︎ When to call the GP, go to hospital, or dial 000 ▶︎ Contagious rashes and navigating childcare policies ▶︎ Understanding meningococcal disease and the importance of vaccination   Additional Resources:Learn more about managing childhood illness at Sick HappensFind paediatric first aid training at Paeds EducationDisclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

Poisoning is one of the most common (and preventable) childhood emergencies. In this episode, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah guide you through what every parent needs to know about poisoning in young children, especially toddlers who are naturally curious and quick to act. From button batteries to eucalyptus oil, they explain the different types of exposure (ingested, skin, eye, and inhaled), how to respond in the moment, and practical ways to make your home safer. Plus, Sarah shares a real-life story to remind us that accidents happen: even to nurses. You'll leave this episode feeling more prepared, less panicked, and empowered to act confidently if your child is ever exposed to a poison.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ The most common poisoning risks in toddlers. ▶︎ What to do (and what not to do) for different types of exposure. ▶︎ When to call the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26) vs 000. ▶︎ Real-life example of a poisoning incident at home. ▶︎ Prevention strategies that actually work. ▶︎ How to stay calm, act fast, and trust your instincts.   Additional Resources: Learn more about managing childhood illness at Sick Happens Find paediatric first aid training at Paeds Education   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

Food Allergies in children With Dr Nelu Simonesz In this episode, we’re joined by Paediatric Doctor and allergy expert Dr Nelu Simonesz to cut through the confusion around allergic disease in children. From starting solids to understanding reactions and knowing if kids can outgrow allergies — we answer your most commonly asked questions with evidence-based, practical advice. We cover: ▶︎ What is an allergy? ▶︎ Are there different types of allergies? ▶︎ How to introduce allergenic foods ▶︎ How often you need to keep them in the diet ▶︎ Can reactions happen on first exposure? ▶︎ And… can children outgrow allergies? Whether you’re just starting solids, navigating ongoing symptoms, or deep in the allergy trenches, this one’s for you.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode: ▶︎ Nip Allergies in the Bub Trusted resource from ASCIA to help parents introduce allergens safely and confidently.  ▶︎ ASCIA Allergy Information for Parents: Factsheets, videos and practical guidance. ▶︎ Safe Introduction of Allergenic Foods ▶︎ Sick Tracker: Track symptoms, reactions, patterns and progress all in one place. Also includes Allergenic food tracker, hydration tracker and medicine tracker.    Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

Hospital visits with a sick baby can be incredibly overwhelming. In this episode, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah walk you through what actually happens when a baby is admitted to hospital with bronchiolitis, so you know what to expect and feel more confident at every step. They explain what dictates hospital admission, what treatments may be used, and how you can stay involved in your child’s care while also looking after yourself.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ Why some babies with bronchiolitis need hospital care ▶︎ What monitoring, treatments, and rehydration methods are used ▶︎ Oxygen therapy and when CPAP might be needed ▶︎ How pain and comfort are managed in hospital ▶︎ What parents can expect and how to advocate for your child ▶︎  What discharge looks like and signs to watch for at home   Additional resources Learn more about managing childhood illness at Sick Happens Find paediatric first aid training at Paeds Education   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

In this episode, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah break down what parents need to know about bronchiolitis. Bronch is one of the most common reasons babies under six months end up in hospital, BUT, not all cases are quite so severe. Lots of the time bronch can be safely managed at home.  Learn what bronchiolitis is, how to manage it at home, and when it’s time to seek help. From recognising red flags to practical tips to optimise breathing and hydration, they’ll help you feel calm and prepared during a stressful time.   Key Topics Discussed: ▶︎ What bronchiolitis is and why it’s so common. ▶︎ Symptoms to watch for. ▶︎ Home care tips for feeding, comfort, and breathing support. ▶︎ Red flags that mean it’s time to see a Doctor.   Additional Resources: Medicine Tracker Hydration Tracker Learn more about managing childhood illness at Sick Happens Find paediatric first aid training at Paeds Education   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah help parents prepare for a safe and stress-free holiday season. From preventing injuries to staying vigilant around water, they share practical advice to navigate the unique risks that come with Christmas and summer celebrations.   With the excitement and chaos of the holidays, accidents can happen quickly. Penny and Sarah break down the most common risks and offer tips to keep your kids safe—whether they’re riding a new bike, splashing in the pool, or enjoying festive fun.   Key Topics Discussed:  Triage of safety AKA a safety-walk-around in new environments to be aware of dangers.  Appropriate supervision.  Check for local hospitals, urgent care or Doctor accessibility in new locations.  Water safety tips to prevent drownings during summer gatherings.  Food, fire and transport safety.   Additional Resources: Nicole Kids physio for risky play  Emergency Plus app    Learn First Aid and what to do when your child is sick: Visit Paeds Education for paediatric first aid courses. Sick Happens for childhood illness courses.   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.  

In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah tackle the alarming rise of whooping cough in Australia, equipping parents with essential knowledge to protect their families during this epidemic. With over 40,000 cases this year, the highest in nearly a decade, they explain what’s behind the surge, who’s most at risk, and the critical steps you can take to prevent its spread.   Key Topics Discussed >>>  Why whooping cough cases are surging in Australia.  Understanding the disease: symptoms, transmission, and risks.  Prevention strategies, including vaccination schedules for children, teens, and pregnant individuals.  Recognising red flags in babies and children, like breathing difficulties or colour changes during coughing fits.   Takeaways >>>  Whooping cough is serious but preventable.  Mild symptoms in older children and adults fuel the spread.  Know the red flags *especially* in infants and newborns.   Stay up to date with your vaccination schedule AND boosters.   Additional resources >>> https://nindss.health.gov.au/pbi-dashboard/  https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Whooping_cough/  https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/whoopingcough    Learn First Aid and what to do when your child is sick: Visit Paeds Education for paediatric first aid courses. Sick Happens for childhood illness courses.   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah delve into one of the most common—and preventable—injuries in childhood: burns. Through personal stories and professional experience, they highlight the realities of burns in children, covering everything from kitchen mishaps to outdoor fires and playtime accidents. With practical advice on first aid for burns, Penny and Sarah provide straightforward, evidence-based steps that parents can use to prevent burns and respond effectively if one occurs. Key Topics Discussed: Common Causes of Burns in Children Types of Burns (Superficial, Partial Thickness, Full Thickness) Immediate First Aid for Burns – 20 Minutes of Cool Running Water Red Flags for Burns (BURNS Acronym) Understanding Burn Severity and When to Seek Medical Help Takeaways: Burn Prevention: From kitchen safety to campfires, knowing how to spot potential burn hazards and making small adjustments at home can prevent many common childhood burns. Burns First Aid: Always start with 20 minutes of cool running water (no ice, oils, or creams initially). This is essential to relieve pain, minimise damage, and help the skin begin healing. Recognising Red Flags: The BURNS acronym can help parents identify when a burn needs urgent medical care: B – Blisters U – Unsure if it’s healing R – Restricted areas like neck or airway N – Nethers (sensitive areas) S – Size larger than a 50-cent coin Seeking Medical Help: Any burn that meets the red flags criteria, or if in doubt, should be assessed by a healthcare provider. Treatment and follow-up are important for proper healing, particularly to prevent infection or scarring. Additional Resources: Fiona Wood Foundation for more information on burns research and treatments Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines on burn first aid Solid Starts app for tips on child safety and injury prevention

Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah dive into one of the most challenging and contagious childhood illnesses: gastro. Drawing from personal experiences and professional expertise, they break down everything parents need to know—from understanding symptoms and spotting red flags to practical hydration tips that help prevent dehydration. With real-world advice on managing vomiting and diarrhoea, Penny and Sarah equip parents with the tools to confidently handle gastro at home and know when it’s time to seek medical help. Key Topics Discussed: Common causes and symptoms of gastro Practical hydration strategies to prevent dehydration At-home management for vomiting and diarrhoea in children Red flags for dehydration that signal a need for medical intervention Differentiating gastro from food poisoning     Additional Resources: Sick Happens Course: In-depth information on managing gastro, dehydration, and practical hydration strategies for children. Hydration Tracker (Sick Happens) for tracking fluid intake and output during illness   Learn First Aid and what to do when your child is sick: Visit Paeds Education for paediatric first aid courses. Sick Happens for childhood illness courses.   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.  

Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah discuss the all-too-common topic of head injuries in children. From playground falls to tumbles at home, they break down everything parents need to know, including common causes, how to recognise red flags, and when it’s time to seek medical help. With practical tips and an easy-to-remember acronym for assessing injuries, Penny and Sarah guide parents in understanding when a head injury is mild or may require immediate medical attention. Key Topics Discussed: Why head injuries are so common in young children The HEADS acronym to identify red flags of a serious injury Understanding the significance of a child’s height and impact in head injuries When and how to safely let your child sleep after a head injury Practical prevention tips to reduce the risk of head injuries at home Takeaways: HEADS Assessment: Use this simple acronym to assess for red flags after a head injury. Seek medical attention if any of these apply: H – Height: Falls from over 1 meter or double the child’s height warrant a thorough assessment. E – Ears & Eyes: Blood or fluid from ears or eyes may indicate serious injury. A – Agitation: Unusual irritability or agitation after a fall can signal a more severe issue. D – Drowsiness: Sudden sleepiness or abnormal drowsiness after a head injury should be evaluated. S – Spew & Speech: More than one vomit, slurred speech, or high-pitched crying in infants are all red flags. When in Doubt, Get Checked Out: Call Nurse on Call or Health Direct if you’re unsure about a head injury—they can provide guidance on whether your child should go to the emergency department. Preventive Tips: Helmets, supervised risky play, and furniture safety precautions are essential to reducing the likelihood of serious head injuries. Additional Resources: Royal Children’s Hospital – Child safety tips and head injury guidelines Nicole Kids Physio on Instagram for practical advice on safe risky play   Learn First Aid and what to do when your child is sick: Visit Paeds Education for paediatric first aid courses. Sick Happens for childhood illness courses    Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

Understanding Fevers – What Parents Really Need to Know In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah tackle a topic filled with anxiety for many parents—fevers. Fevers are an inevitable part of childhood, but they don’t have to come with fear and panic. Penny and Sarah discuss what fevers are, why they happen, and how they’re actually a healthy part of a child’s immune response. With clear and grounded advice, this episode offers practical guidance to help parents confidently navigate fevers without fear. Key Topics Discussed: What Is a Fever? When To Worry and Red Flags. Practical Fever Management. Febrile Seizures Explained. Takeaways: Fevers are a common, natural immune response to infection in children. Understanding the context of the fever, rather than the exact number, can help parents better assess their child’s health. Focus on hydration, comfort, and observing symptoms rather than obsessing over temperature readings. Mentioned Resources: For listeners in rural areas, Penny and Sarah recommend resources like the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department and Nurse on Call (Victoria) or Health Direct (Australia-wide) for accessing paediatric advice remotely.   Please visit Paeds Education for paediatric first aid courses, or Sick Happens for childhood illness courses  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

In this episode of Prepared Not Scared, Paediatric Nurses Penny and Sarah share critical insights into choking prevention and first aid, arming parents with practical steps to keep children safe while handling food and small objects. Through real-life stories, including Sarah's own double choking scare, they highlight the speed at which choking can happen—even under the most watchful eyes. This episode aims to equip parents with confidence and practical knowledge to manage choking hazards effectively, using both prevention techniques and first aid skills. Key Topics Discussed: Choking Prevention Tips Understanding High-Risk Choking Hazards The Four S's of Choking Prevention (Shape, Sitting, Supervision, and Searching) How to Perform Choking First Aid for Babies and Children Guidance on When to Call Emergency Services Takeaways: Choking can happen quickly: Even with precautions in place, choking incidents can occur. Parents shouldn’t feel guilty when they do; knowing what to do is what matters most. The Four S’s for Preventing Choking: Shape (food preparation), Sitting (always sit down to eat), Supervision (watch while eating), and Searching (remove hazards) can help minimise choking risks. Key First Aid Steps: From using back blows and chest thrusts to knowing when to call triple zero, this episode provides a detailed guide on how to act effectively if a child begins to choke. Stay calm and trust your instincts: Recognise that force may be necessary to dislodge an object. Don’t fear bruising if it means helping your child breathe again. Additional Resources: CPR Kids’ Four S’s of Choking Prevention The Solid Starts app for safe food preparation tips by age Emergency Plus and What3Words apps for locating emergency help, particularly in remote areas   Learn First Aid and what to do when your child is sick: Visit Paeds Education for paediatric first aid courses. Sick Happens for childhood illness courses    Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.

Welcome to Prepared Not Scared. Penny from @sick.happens and Sarah from @paeds_education are here to chat all about inevitable illness and injury. We are going to be walking you through all the things parents and families freak out about: fevers, choking, gastro, burns and the rest.  Let's go.   Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider with any questions you have regarding your child's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you've heard on this podcast.