4.8

Norm 8. Provision of proper care for sick children

4.8.1

Standard: Immediate and appropriate health care services to child/ren be facilitated

4.8.2

Outcome: Child/ren receive appropriate treatment and care

PROGRAMME PRACTICES:

(a)

Service provider must ensure that staff members are able to identify sick children and make the necessary referrals

(b)

Service provider must ensure that policies and procedures relating to the health care of children in the organisation are in place. Policies to cover the following:

(i)

Criteria for identifying sick children and or with chronic illnesses

(ii)

Safe keeping of all medication at the organisation

(iii)

Procedure for dealing with children who are sick

(iv)

Guidelines for preventing the spread of diseases at the organisation

(v)

Time frames for medical check-ups, by staff

(c)

Service provider must ensure that after identifying children who are sick, the sickness or problem must be reported to the parent(s), caregiver or family as soon as possible

(d)

Service provider must ensure that in case of emergency, the child is taken to the nearest hospital or clinic for treatment

(e)

Service provider must ensure that a parent/ caregiver or guardian together with the housemother properly administrate the medication to the child according to the medical prescription

(f)

Service provider must ensure that a medical register is in place and properly managed

(g)

Service provider must ensure that updated records of each child’s medical history including immunization programme is kept from the date of admission

(h)

Service provider must ensure that health incidents and accidents occurring at the facility are recorded and attended to

(i)

Service provider must ensure that a written consent form is signed by the parent, care giver or guardian in case of infectious diseases or HIV /AIDS status