Nurse's two-second pen trick that saves lives - and all parents should know it

A nurse has shared this super easy pen trick that everyone - especially parents - should know as it could be a life-saver.

If you spot a rash or a red mark on yourself or your child then you may not worry to begin with. These rashes can be caused by a number of different things including stress, allergies, fatigue or even new medication.

However it could also be an indicator of a more serious condition such as measles or scarlet fever, reports the Mirror.

Paediatric nurse Sarah Hunstead, creator of child and first aid education group CPR Kids, has urged people to take notice of some suspicious rashes and to see a GP if it changes.

According to the nurse, there is a simple pen trick you can use to check if the rash has changed and it only takes a few seconds to carry out.

All you need to do is draw a circle or border around the rash, mark or spot using a pen that is skin-safe. This way, you can check if the mark or rash is changing in any way or getting bigger.

Ms Hunstead shared an easy way to remember this trick, saying: "Remember: Outline with pen, then check it again!"

In a post on Instagram, the nurse added: "Grab a pen, circle around the outside, and check it again later. This is an easy way of being able to tell whether something is spreading or not."

A rash or bite isn't always a dangerous thing but it can be a tell-tale sign that you or your child may need some treatment from medical professionals. The NHS has recommended trusting your own judgement when it comes to knowing if your child is unwell.

However if your child is displaying any of the below symptoms alongside a rash, then you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately:

• A stiff neck

• Bothered by light

• Seems confused

• A high temperature

• Difficulty breathing - you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs), breathlessness, or they're breathing very fast

• A rash that looks like small bruises or bleeding under the skin and does not fade when you press a glass against it

• Their skin, lips or tongue look pale, blue, grey or blotchy

The NHS adds: "On brown and black skin, it may be easier to see the rash or colour changes on the soles of the feet, palms, lips, tongue and inside the eyelids."

If you are worried about a rash on you or your child and are unsure of what to do then you should call 111 or request an urgent GP appointment.

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