Basic First Aid

Basic first aid refers to the initial assistance and care provided to a person who has been injured or suddenly taken ill. It aims to preserve life, prevent the condition from worsening, and promote recovery until professional medical help arrives. Here are some key principles and procedures for basic first aid:

1. Assess the Situation:

   • Ensure the safety of yourself, the injured person, and bystanders.

   • Assess the situation to identify any potential dangers or hazards.

2. Check for Responsiveness:

   • • The AVPU scale: 

       • A: Alert responds appropriately to questions; further define mental status as follows.

         • Alert and Oriented - 4: Person, place, time, and event

         • Alert and Oriented - 3: Person, place, and time

         • Alert and Oriented - 2: Person and place

         • Alert and Oriented - 1: Person only 

       • V: Responsive to verbal stimuli i.e. Shouting

       • P: Responsive to pain e.g. Sternum Rub

       • U: Unresponsive

   • If the person is unresponsive, call for emergency medical assistance immediately.

3. ABCs of First Aid:

   • Airway: Ensure the person's airway is clear. If not, gently tilt the head back to open the airway.

   • Breathing: Check for normal breathing. If the person is not breathing, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) if trained to do so.

   • Circulation: Check for signs of circulation, such as a pulse. If absent, begin CPR.

4. Control Bleeding:

   • Use a clean cloth or sterile bandage to apply direct pressure on the wound.

   • Elevate the injured limb if possible.

   • If bleeding is severe and cannot be controlled, use a tourniquet above the wound (if trained to do so).

5. Manage Shock:

   • Keep the person warm by covering them with a blanket.

   • Elevate the legs slightly unless it causes discomfort or worsens an injury.

   • Reassure and keep the person calm.

6. Treat Burns:

   • For minor burns, cool the area with cold running water for at least 10 minutes.

   • Cover the burn with a sterile dressing.

   • Do not use ice or very cold water on severe burns.

7. Fractures and Sprains:

   • Support the injured area to minimize movement.

   • Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.

   • Seek professional medical help for further assessment.

8. Choking:

   • Encourage the person to cough forcefully.

   • Perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) if the person is conscious and unable to breathe.

9. Seizures:

   • Keep the person safe from nearby hazards.

   • Place the person on their side after the seizure ends.

   • Do not put anything in the person's mouth during a seizure.

10. Insect Bites and Allergic Reactions:

    • Remove the stinger if present.

    • Administer an epinephrine auto-injector if the person has a known severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

11. Eye Injuries:

    • Rinse the eye gently with clean water if a foreign object is present.

    • Do not rub the eye.

    • Cover both eyes with a sterile dressing.

12. Stay Calm and Reassure:

    • Keep the person calm and reassured.

    • Provide comfort and support while waiting for professional help.

Remember that first aid is not a substitute for professional medical care. 

After providing initial assistance, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. 

Additionally, being trained in basic first aid and CPR can significantly enhance your ability to respond effectively in emergency situations. Consider taking a certified first aid and CPR course to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.