The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA) is a comprehensive training programme designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to medical emergencies involving infants and children. Developed in line with international first aid standards, the course provides a structured blend of theoretical understanding and hands-on practical training, ensuring participants can act confidently and appropriately in critical situations.
Throughout the programme, participants learn how to assess and manage a range of paediatric emergencies, from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions. The training covers essential areas such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for infants and children, wound care, shock management, fracture handling, and the correct use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Special emphasis is placed on understanding the physiological differences between adults and children, enabling participants to apply first aid techniques that are age-appropriate and effective.
The diploma also addresses the legal and regulatory framework for paediatric first aid, helping participants understand their responsibilities in professional and community settings. Real-life case scenarios, practical demonstrations, and simulated emergency drills form an integral part of the training, ensuring participants develop the confidence and competence to respond under pressure.
By the end of the course, participants will have the capability to recognise signs of medical distress in children, perform life-saving interventions, and provide ongoing care until professional medical assistance arrives. This internationally recognised qualification is ideal for individuals working in childcare, education, healthcare, community services, sports coaching, and other child-focused professions, as well as for parents and guardians who want to enhance their ability to protect children’s health and safety.
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA) offers not only essential skills for emergency response but also the reassurance that participants are prepared to safeguard young lives in both everyday and unexpected situations.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA)
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Paediatric First Aid and Legal Responsibilities (2 Hours)
- Understand the principles and scope of paediatric first aid.
- Recognise the legal and ethical responsibilities of providing first aid to children.
- Identify the importance of accurate record-keeping and incident reporting.
Understanding Child Physiology and Emergency Response Principles (3 Hours)
- Understand key differences between adult and child anatomy and physiology.
- Recognise signs of medical distress in infants and children.
- Apply basic emergency response protocols tailored to paediatric needs.
Primary Survey, Casualty Assessment, and Recovery Position for Infants and Children (3 Hours)
- Conduct a structured primary survey for paediatric emergencies.
- Perform an effective casualty assessment to identify priorities for care.
- Demonstrate correct techniques for placing infants and children in the recovery position.
Paediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and AED Operation (5 Hours)
- Demonstrate paediatric-specific CPR techniques for infants and children.
- Safely operate an Automated External Defibrillator in paediatric emergencies.
- Integrate CPR and AED use into an effective resuscitation sequence.
Management of Unconscious Infants and Children (4 Hours)
- Identify causes of unconsciousness in paediatric cases.
- Apply safe handling techniques to maintain airway and breathing.
- Implement appropriate care while awaiting advanced medical support.
Control of Bleeding, Wound Care, and Shock Management in Children (4 Hours)
- Identify different types of bleeding in paediatric patients.
- Apply correct first aid techniques for wound cleaning and dressing.
- Recognise and manage signs of shock in children effectively.
First Aid for Burns, Scalds, and Thermal Injuries in Paediatric Cases (4 Hours)
- Distinguish between different degrees of burns in children.
- Apply immediate and effective treatment for burns and scalds.
- Understand when to seek urgent medical care for burn injuries.
Managing Fractures, Sprains, and Soft Tissue Injuries in Children (3 Hours)
- Identify common musculoskeletal injuries in paediatric patients.
- Apply safe immobilisation techniques for fractures and sprains.
- Provide appropriate first aid to minimise further injury.
Response to Common Paediatric Medical Emergencies: Asthma, Seizures, and Allergic Reactions (2 Hours)
- Recognise symptoms of asthma attacks, seizures, and severe allergic reactions.
- Apply correct first aid techniques for each medical emergency.
- Understand the importance of rapid response and escalation of care.
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Paediatric First Aid (PFA)
- Equips participants with internationally recognised skills in paediatric first aid.
- Enhances confidence in responding to a wide range of child-related medical emergencies.
- Improves knowledge of legal responsibilities, safeguarding, and ethical considerations in childcare environments.
- Develops competence in paediatric CPR, AED operation, and life-saving interventions.
- Strengthens ability to assess situations quickly and prioritise care for infants and children.
- Provides practical, hands-on training to reinforce theoretical learning.
- Increases preparedness to manage injuries, burns, allergic reactions, and medical conditions in children.
- Supports professional development and career advancement in childcare, education, and healthcare sectors.
- Aligns with global first aid standards to ensure best practices are met.
- Contributes to creating safer environments for children in schools, nurseries, and community settings.
This course is designed for participants who have a responsibility for the care, supervision, or safety of infants and children in professional, educational, or community settings. It is suitable for:
- Childcare providers, nursery staff, and early years practitioners
- School teachers, teaching assistants, and support staff
- Healthcare professionals working with paediatric patients
- Social workers and community care providers supporting children
- Sports coaches, activity leaders, and youth workers
- Foster carers and residential childcare staff
- Volunteers involved in children’s programmes and events
- Anyone seeking to gain recognised paediatric first aid skills for professional or personal purposes
