The signs that mean you should call your emergency number now, what to say on the phone, and what to do while you wait.
In short
- Trust your instincts if something seems seriously wrong.
- Some signs always need an emergency call.
- Stay with her until help arrives.
Trust your instincts
If she is unwell and you think something is seriously wrong, call your emergency number now. Keep checking her for new or changing signs, even at night. The signs in this guide always need an emergency call.
On brown or black skin, colour changes can be easier to see on the palms, the soles of the feet, the lips or inside the cheeks.
Other signs that need an emergency call
- Her temperature is below 36C: call your emergency number now
- Her skin feels cold or clammy: call your emergency number now
- Her throat or tongue swells: call your emergency number now
- She has had no wet nappy for 12 hours: call your emergency number now
- She is not feeding at all: call your emergency number now
If she is 3 to 6 months and had a vaccine in the last 2 days, a temperature of 39C or more needs a call to your doctor now instead.
On the phone
The call handler will ask where you are, what has happened and your phone number. They may tell you what to do while you wait. Follow what they say.
While you wait
- Stay with her.
- If she has a fit, protect her head and move hard things away. Do not hold her down or put anything in her mouth.
- Call again if she gets worse.
- In the dark, turn on the lights and open the curtains.
- Shut away any pets.
