Nurse's two-second pen method could save lives and it's helpful for parents

Nurse's two-second pen method could save lives and it's helpful for parents A paediatric nurse has shared an incredibly simple pen trick that takes just two seconds and could help parents spot warning signs of a child rash before it becomes a medical emergency. Everyone should know this incredibly simple pen trick, particularly parents, as it could genuinely save a life. If you notice a rash or red mark on yourself or your child, it's easy to dismiss it. Such marks can be triggered by any number of causes, including stress, fatigue, allergies or medication. However, they can also signal something far more serious - such as scarlet fever or measles. Paediatric nurse Sarah Hunstead, creator of child and first aid education group CPR Kids, has highlighted the importance of keeping a close eye on suspicious marks. If one changes, you should get it examined by a GP. An easy way to tell if a mark or rash is changing is to grab a pen. According to Nurse Hunstead, you should draw a border around the suspected rash, mark or spot using a skin-safe pen. This makes it easy to spot any changes, such as the mark growing larger. The expert used a handy slogan to prompt parents, stating: "Remember: Outline with pen, then check it again!" In a recent Instagram post, she added: "Grab a pen, circle around the outside, and check it again later. This is an easy way of being able to tell whether something is spreading or not." If you don't have a skin-safe pen, don't fret. Another way to track how your skin is changing is to take photos of the impacted area. You can look back at the pictures and see how the skin is developing – and even share them with your doctor if you have any concerns. NHS advice about rashes on babies and children The NHS website states: "Many things can cause a rash in babies and children, and they're often nothing to worry about." However, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately if your child is unwell with the following symptoms: - a stiff neck - bothered by light - they seem confused, agitated or they're not responding like they usually do - difficulty breathing (you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs), breathlessness, or they're breathing very fast - their skin, lips or tongue look pale, blue, grey or blotchy - sudden swelling of their lips, mouth, throat or tongue - their throat feels tight or they're struggling to swallow - the rash looks like small bruises or bleeding under the skin and does not fade when you press a glass against it The NHS adds: "On brown and black skin, it may be easier to see the rash or colour changes on the soles of the feet, palms, lips, tongue and inside the eyelids." Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if your child: - has a rash you're worried about and you're not sure what to do - feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, feels sweaty or they’re shivering - is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38C - is aged 3 months or older and has a temperature of 39C or higher - is aged 5 years or older and has a temperature below 36C You can get more information about rashes on babies and children by heading to the NHS website. You should also consult a medical professional if you have any worries about yourself or a loved one.