If you’re about to start a rotation in Paediatrics — welcome.

Whether you’re coming from adult medicine, surgery, ED, or somewhere entirely different, starting something new can feel unsettling.
Children are smaller. Parents are watching. The noises are louder. The stakes can feel higher.

That feeling is normal.
And you’re not expected to know everything on day one.

What does help is having a simple mental framework — something familiar to anchor you when everything else feels unfamiliar.

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Start with the Paediatric ABCDE

If you know the ABCDE of Paediatrics, you’ll cover the vast majority of children you’re likely to see on your first few shifts in Paeds ED:
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​A — Asthma​
Wheeze, work of breathing, salbutamol, steroids, reassessment.
👉 https://dontforgetthebubbles.com/the-new-australian-sustainable-asthma-care-roadmap/​

B — Bronchiolitis​
Tiny noses, big snot, supportive care, and knowing when not to intervene.
👉 https://dontforgetthebubbles.com/bronchiolitis-module/​

C — Croup​
That barking cough at 2am, steroids that work, and calm as treatment.
👉 https://dontforgetthebubbles.com/corticosteroids-for-croup/​

D — Dehydration​
Vomiting kids, dry nappies, oral rehydration, and when IV fluids are actually needed.
👉 https://dontforgetthebubbles.com/high-and-dry-assessing-dehydration/​

E — Exanthems​
Rashes that look dramatic but usually aren’t — and the few that matter.
👉 https://dontforgetthebubbles.com/exanthems/​

You don’t need to memorise everything.
Just knowing these five presentations — and where to find reliable guidance — will get you a long way.

You don’t have to do this alone

Beyond the blog, we’ve built a range of DFTB Digital resources specifically to support clinicians who are new, returning, or wanting to feel more confident.

• DFTB Essentials of Illness and Injury​
  A structured, practical foundation covering the core presentations you’ll see in paediatric emergency care.
• DFTB Beyond Essentials​
  For when you’re ready to go deeper, ask better questions, and refine your practice.

You can explore both at 👉 https://www.dftbdigital.com​

They’re designed to fit around busy shifts, not add to the pressure.

Starting Paediatrics can feel daunting — but it’s also one of the most rewarding places to work.
Children are resilient. Parents are grateful. And teams are usually kinder than you expect.

We’re glad you’re here.
And we’re here to help.