Clinical Awareness Cases

Simple educational scenarios to help families understand when medical assessment may be needed.

Illustrative educational scenario — not an actual identifiable patient case. These examples are written only for public health awareness. They do not describe any real patient and are not medical advice.

When a Child's Fever Needs Medical Attention

Situation

A three year old child has fever for two days at home.

What parents may observe

Temperature going up and down
Reduced appetite
The child is playing less than usual

Why medical assessment may be required

Fever can have many causes. An examination helps the doctor understand the reason and decide whether any test is needed.

General awareness points

Note the temperature readings with timings.
Give fluids regularly.
Give medicine only in the dose advised for the child's weight.

When to seek medical attention

Fever beyond 24 hours despite home care
Very dull or drowsy child
Fast or difficult breathing
Fits, rash, continuous vomiting or reduced urine

Illustrative educational scenario — not an actual identifiable patient case.

A Newborn Who Is Feeding Less

Situation

A two week old baby is sleeping for long stretches and feeding fewer times than before.

What parents may observe

Fewer wet nappies
Difficulty in waking the baby for feeds
Reduced activity

Why medical assessment may be required

Small babies can become unwell quickly. Reduced feeding is an important sign that needs examination without delay.

General awareness points

Record the number of feeds and wet nappies.
Do not wait for fever to appear.
Carry the birth records and vaccination card to the clinic.

When to seek medical attention

Poor feeding or continuous sleepiness
Fever, or a baby who feels unusually cold
Yellow colour of skin or eyes increasing
Fast breathing or grunting

Illustrative educational scenario — not an actual identifiable patient case.

Delay in Speech Noticed by Parents

Situation

Parents notice that their two year old child speaks fewer words than other children of the same age.

What parents may observe

Few words used
Less response when called
Communication mostly by pointing

Why medical assessment may be required

Development varies between children, but an assessment helps to check hearing, understanding and overall development early.

General awareness points

Talk and read to the child daily.
Reduce screen time.
Bring records of previous check-ups.

When to seek medical attention

Clear delay in several development steps
A skill the child had earlier seems lost
Concerns about hearing or eye contact

Illustrative educational scenario — not an actual identifiable patient case.

Health Information Disclaimer: This information is provided for general health awareness and is not a substitute for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified medical professional. Please consult a doctor for concerns specific to you or your child.