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Dehydration: More than thirst
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
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21:42
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21:42
Welcome back to season 3
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.
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3:24
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3:24
Understanding Pain in Children
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.
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44:42
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44:42
Help! My child has a rash
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.
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41:00
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41:00
Poisoning in children
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.
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38:56
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38:56