Child & Adolescent Health

The module begins with the definition of neonate and outlines the importance of the neonatal period. The normal newborn behaviours such as feeding, weight gain, crying, sleeping, wet and dirty nappies are discussed. Common GP presentations in the post-partum period include the 6-week check, fever, respiratory symptoms, jaundice, rashes, DDH, umbilicus and head shape concerns. Feeding difficulties are discussed in detail. The module then focusses on supporting parents with newborn feeding and nutrition including breastfeeding, latch and milk transfer, infant sucking and tongue tie. Assessing adequacy of milk intake, signs of inadequate milk intake and ways to increase milk supply are covered in this module.

This module focuses on the fundamentals of assessing a sick child, and the presentation and management of some of the more common paediatric emergencies. The first unit details the initial assessment steps of a sick child including Paediatric Assessment Triangle (PAT) – first impression, Primary Survey (ABCDE), Secondary survey (vital signs, focused history, detailed physical examination), and ongoing assessment. Unit two focuses on resuscitation and anaphylaxis including Basic Life Support and Advanced Paediatric Life Support. The causes of vomiting and dehydration, and the assessment of severity, management and treatment of dehydration are covered. Content covers the definition and classifications of fever including evaluation guides through history-taking, examination and investigations. The final unit focuses on the steps required when assessing and examining a child with head injury. The definite and relative indications for when neuroimaging is required are discussed.

This module focuses on identifying and managing paediatric presentations of commonly seen respiratory symptoms. The first unit outlines the definition of asthma and asthma patterns including risk factors, common triggers and diagnosis. Unit two focuses on the management of asthma including assessing symptoms and triggers, discussing goals of management, choosing the initial treatment and periodically reviewing/adjusting treatment based on recent symptom control. The stepped approach to adjusting medication for children aged 1-5 years and 6-11 years, including how to manage acute asthma are discussed in detail. Information on croup and bronchiolitis conditions including clinical features, assessment, examination of severity, investigations, differential diagnoses and its management are covered in the following unit. The final unit outlines the definition and aetiology of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The diagnosis, investigations, management and possible indications for admission of this condition are discussed.

This module commences with an overview of vaccines focusing on active (natural or acquired) immunisation and includes passive immunisation. Vaccines contain antigens which stimulate an active immune response and mimics the host’s response to natural infection. Legal standards on testing, manufacture and vaccine production are mentioned. Vaccine components and the various types of antigens and how they work are outlined. The vaccine administration is discussed together with safety, efficacy, effectiveness, vaccine failure, adverse events and contraindications and includes recommendations for age and condition appropriate vaccines for children. Vaccines for BCG, Hepatitis B, poliomyelitis, diptheria, pertussis, tetanus, haemophilus influenzae type b, pneumococcal, rotavirus, MMR, varicella, meningococcal disease, HPV and influenza are discussed including dosage rates, delivery mode, contraindications and adverse effects. The module concludes with the principles for catch-up vaccinations.

This general dermatology module focuses on how to detect, assess and plan treatment for insect, spider and snake bites. Venomous and non-venomous bites and stings are discussed including defining the difference between a bite and a sting. Insect bite and sting reactions including managing bite allergies are detailed. Diseases transmitted by insect bites are outlined including treatment options. Clinical and dermoscopic images are used throughout the course. Identifying and managing snake bites including first aid measures are discussed.   

The primary burden of disease in children and young people has shifted from infectious diseases to chronic conditions. Definitions, demographic and incident data are discussed. Tooth decay is very common in children and information is provided for the medical practitioner encountering this issue. Primary, secondary and tertiary stages of care are listed. The GP role is to listen, support, diagnosis, communicate/educate, coordinate and advocate for the patient and their family. The role of allied health support for the clinician is recognised and discussed. Key consultation strategies and considerations are covered. These include aims, communication, curve balls, breaking bad news, family considerations, non-compliance, medico-legal, child protection, mental health, adolescence and palliation. Consultation frameworks are provided. Following the FAMILY guide, five case examples are provided in managing children with asthma, ASD, school and social media influence, food allergy and spina bifida. Information about the GP’s self-care is mentioned.