The children's assessment unit is a service for children up to the age of 15 years and functions as an acute assessment unit for your unwell child.
More about the Children's Assessment Unit (CAU)
The philosophy of the CAU is a family-oriented approach to care where the nurse will attend to the nursing and technical components while you continue in your parental role.
As a parent or caregiver you should expect to spend at least two to four hours in the CAU while staff carry out:
- Nursing assessment and recordings
- Medical examinations
- Ongoing observations
- Initiation of treatment
- Regular medical review
- Home care advice
If you are worried about the condition of your child while you are waiting please let the nursing staff know. During your child's admission and investigations there may be times when delays will occur before the medical team can see your child. During this time your child is being observed and assessed by experienced paediatric nurses.
Facilities for Children
Food: Please ask before giving your child anything to eat or drink. In some cases this could delay treatment. We will provide meals for your child including snacks and special diets. Nursing staff will apply appropriate drinks regularly.
Activities: Toys, books, television and videos are available. Both outside and inside play areas are also available.