Consider referring a child to a specialist immediately following a resuscitation attempt if the child shows any signs of an immediately life-threatening illness or 'red' features. This includes situations where the child is seriously unwell, has severe respiratory distress, apnoea, or central cyanosis, or if the clinical condition suggests the need for urgent specialist paediatric care.
Urgent referral to a paediatric specialist is warranted if the child has any 'red' features but is not in immediate life-threatening condition. If 'amber' features are present without a clear diagnosis, referral or safety-netting with specialist paediatric care should be considered.
In all cases, emergency medical care should be arranged by the most appropriate means (usually 999 ambulance) if the child’s condition is critical.
Key References
- NG1 - Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in children and young people: diagnosis and management
- NG143 - Fever in under 5s: assessment and initial management
- NG9 - Bronchiolitis in children: diagnosis and management
- NG61 - End of life care for infants, children and young people with life-limiting conditions: planning and management