Basic First Aid to Common Emergencies
Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. How the victim is first responded to during an accident is very crucial. In most cases, the basic first aid provided at the scenario can improve a victim's chances for survival and recovering. The correct response to a medical emergency is way better compared to an erroneous quick one. Some medical experts say that whatever type of response, even if it may be incorrect, is "better than none at all".
Basic first aid
At all times, keep in mind that the very first response to accidents is always the most vital. It is important to know what needs to be done. Remember to keep shock victims covered to decrease heat loss. Attempt to stop any bleeding through applying pressure on the wound. Don't move a victim that has spinal injury, except if they are in further danger. Here are some basic first aid responses to common emergencies:
Unconscious Victim
If a victim is found unconscious, perform "rescue breathing". If a victim's heart stops beating, perform "cardiopulmonary resuscitation" or CPR if you have the proper training to do so.
Shock
This usually accompanies serious injuries or severe emotional upset. The symptoms are clammy and cold skim, chills, pale face, frequent vomiting or nausea, shallow breathing, and confusion. Until the emergency unit arrives, let the person lie down with legs elevated. Keep victim covered to stop body heat loss or prevent chilling. Give non-alcoholic beverage if victim can swallow or hasn't sustained any abdominal injury.
Burns and scalds
Until medical assistance arrives, immerse burned area at once in cool or tap water, or put cool, moist, clean towels. Don't use ice, as it can cause more damage to a burned area. Keep doing this treatment till burning or pain stops. Don't use greases, powders, or ointments.
Bleeding
Until emergency assistance arrives, attempt to control the bleeding. Preferably, put on latex or rubber gloves first before touching the blood. If not available, a "clean" plastic bag may be used in covering the hands. It's important to not get in contact with blood due to health risks.
If hand or finger pressure is not enough to stop the bleeding, put a thick pad of bandage or clean cloth directly on top of the wound, and keep it in place using a bandage, belt, cloth strips, or neckties. Be careful to not stop blood circulation to other parts.
Knowing basic first aid is very important, you can further your knowledge by taking first aid courses at organizations that provide them.
