Tools of the trade

Most useful piece of equipment at work?
Stethoscope? No.
Pager? No.
Finger puppet that sits on the end of a pen torch? Yup.

It's amazing how well this little guy breaks the ice when dealing with a frightened, unwell child. He's looking a little shabby now and maybe needs to be retired, but he's served me well.

Still, it appears the quickest way to a child's heart is to know the words to the Wiggles' songs. I have the worst singing voice of all time, but there's nothing like a bit of Hot Potato to ease the stress of having a drip put in. I leave the parents to do the actions though...