Quick Help Guide For Parents Of Child Cancer Patients

When should I seek help for my child with cancer?

Seek help if your child:

• does not feel well or look right (or you are worried about them)
• has a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above
• has an infection - redness or tenderness anywhere on the body
• is in contact with chickenpox or measles
• has any bleeding - nose bleed for more than 5 minutes, bleeding gums or bruising
• has tiny red or purple flat spots on the skin (petechiae)
• is excessively tired, pale or short of breath
• is dehydrated - weeing less, dry mouth, no tears when crying
• is in severe or long-lasting (persistent) pain
• refuses to drink
• is not swallowing saliva
• has missed a dose of medicine
• is vomiting less than half an hour after medicine

Who should I call if my child with cancer is unwell?

If you are concerned that your child has any of the symptoms above, call your healthcare team. This could be your shared care paediatric team or the Starship or CHOC clinic, depending on where you live. 

Make sure you have the appropriate contact numbers and keep them in a handy place. 

Read more about childhood cancer