First aid is the initial assistance given to a sick or injured person before professional medical help arrives. It is crucial in emergency situations to preserve life, prevent worsening of the condition, and promote recovery.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with the fundamentals of first aid, cover common situations requiring intervention, and guide you through step-by-step actions. Additionally, each topic will be enriched with practical examples for better understanding.

Assess the Safety – Priority in Every Situation

The first and foremost step in any rescue action is to assess the safety. Ensure your and the victim’s safety from hazards like traffic, fire, gas, etc.

Example: A road accident on a busy street. Before taking any action, ensure you can safely reach the victim without putting yourself in danger.

Check for Consciousness – Crucial Information

Gently shake the victim and ask if they are alright. If they don’t respond, tap their shoulder or cheek. Lack of response to these stimuli indicates unconsciousness.

Example: While walking, you notice a person lying on a bench. You gently shake them and ask if they are okay. The lack of response prompts you to further assess the victim’s condition.

Call Emergency Services – Immediate Response Saves Lives

If the victim is unconscious or not breathing, immediately call emergency services at 112. Provide the exact location of the incident and describe the victim’s condition.

Example: During housework, your child has an accident and loses consciousness. You immediately call 112, providing your address and describing your child’s condition.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) – Fight for Time

If the victim is not breathing, start CPR. CPR is a set of actions aimed at maintaining blood and oxygen flow to the brain and other organs until medical aid arrives.

How to Perform CPR – Step by Step:

Lay the victim flat on their back on a hard surface.
Place the middle part of your hand on the victim’s breastbone.
Place your other hand on top of the first and interlock your fingers.
Straighten your arms and press on the victim’s breastbone 30 times, performing rhythmic, firm compressions.
After 30 compressions, open the victim’s airway by tilting their head back and lifting their chin.
Give two rescue breaths, placing your mouth over the victim’s mouth and blowing air for 2 seconds.
Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until the victim starts breathing on their own or until medical help arrives.

Example: While resuscitating a child, remember to adjust the hand size and compression force according to their age and size.

Dealing with Other Situations – A Wide Range of Threats

In addition to CPR, first aid also involves managing other common problems, such as:

Bleeding:

Example: Bleeding is the escape of blood from the blood vessels to the outside of the body. Depending on the amount and location, it can pose a serious threat to health and even life.
The first step in case of bleeding is to assess its nature. Check the wound depth, bleeding amount, and location. In case of severe bleeding or deep wounds, call emergency services immediately.
To stop the bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound. Use a clean cloth or gauze and press firmly for at least 5 minutes. If possible, elevate the bleeding limb above heart level. For severe bleeding from a limb, apply indirect pressure to the artery supplying blood to the injured limb.
Once the bleeding is controlled, clean the wound with clean water and soap, and apply a sterile dressing. It is important to monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or fever. If any of these symptoms appear, consult a doctor.
Remember, quick and decisive action in case of bleeding can save lives. In case of doubt or severe bleeding, always call emergency services.

Head Injuries:

Example: During a bicycle fall, a child hits their head on the sidewalk. Observe the child for signs of concussion, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and altered consciousness. If any of these symptoms appear, call for medical attention immediately.

Fractures:

Example: During a basketball game, a player falls to the ground and breaks their leg. Immobilize the injured leg with a splint or other available object. Then apply a cold compress to the fracture site to reduce pain and swelling.

Burns:

Example: While cooking, a child gets burned by hot water. Cool the burned area with cold water for at least 20 minutes. Then apply a sterile dressing and call for medical attention.

Gain Knowledge and Skills – Be Prepared!

The best way to be prepared to provide first aid is to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. You can do this by taking a first aid course conducted by qualified instructors. There are also many online resources available that can help you learn basic life-saving skills.

Additional Tips:

Carry emergency numbers: Keep emergency numbers like 112, 998, and 999 in your phone or carry them with you on a card.
Educate others: Teach your family and friends the basics of first aid. The more people know how to provide first aid, the better the chances of saving lives in an emergency.
Stay updated: Regularly refresh your first aid knowledge and skills. Take additional courses or trainings to stay up-to-date with the latest recommendations.

Remember, even a little first aid knowledge and skills can save lives. Be prepared and take action when needed!

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Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. In an emergency, always call emergency services.