Child and family health nurse

What is a child and family health nurse?

A child and family health nurse (maternal and child health nurse in Victoria) is a registered nurse who works with families to promote the health and wellbeing of babies, children and young people up to the age of 18 years.

Child and family health nurses work in a variety of settings including homes, clinics, community health centres, hospitals and GP surgeries. They also work as part of child and family health teams, which may include other health professionals such as GPs, dietitians, speech therapists and psychologists.

What do child and family health nurses do?

Child and family health nurses provide a range of services to families with young children. These services include:

· Health assessments – at birth, at around six to eight weeks, and at around four to five months

· Immunisation advice and administration

· Developmental assessments

· Parent education and support

· Breastfeeding support and advice

· Referrals to other health professionals, services and programs.

Why are child and family health nurses important?

Child and family health nurses play an important role in the health and wellbeing of babies, children and young people. They work with families to prevent illness and injury, and to promote good health and development.

Child and family health nurses are a key part of the Australian healthcare system. They provide essential services to families with young children, and they help to keep our community healthy.

If you have any concerns about your child’s health or development, you should speak to your GP or local child and family health nurse.

You can find your nearest child and family health centre by visiting the Australian Government’s My Health for Kids website.

Why your child might see a child and family health nurse?

Your child might see a child and family health nurse for a number of reasons, including:

· Health assessments – at birth, at around six to eight weeks, and at around four to five months

· Immunisation advice and administration

· Developmental assessments

· Parent education and support

· Breastfeeding support and advice

· Referrals to other health professionals, services and programs.

What to expect when seeing a child and family health nurse?

When you see a child and family health nurse, they will ask about your family’s medical history and your child’s development. They will also assess your child’s physical health.

Child and family health nurses are trained to provide advice on a range of topics, including:

· Breastfeeding

· sleep

· nutrition

· development

· immunisation.

They can also provide you with information about local services and support groups.