Basic First Aid

Every year, many accidents occur. With some care, they can be prevented. In case an accident does happen, you can be of help if you know first aid. Read each of the following points carefully. You will be able to give vital first aid if needed. Children should always remember to seek help from an adult IMMEDIATELY.

Do not move the casualty unnecessarily. Keep them warm. Make a diagnosis, and then decide the treatment. Remember the ABC of First Aid. See if the airways are clear, check if they’re breathing, and their blood circulation is present.

1. RESPIRATION:

If respiration is failing, give artificial respiration – MOUTH to MOUTH or MOUTH to NOSE.

2. BLEEDING:

Arrest the bleeding and protect the wound. Apply direct or indirect pressure. Cover the wound with a dressing, and apply a pad and firm bandage. Elevate the wound and keep it at rest.

3. FRACTURES:

IMMOBILISE the fractured site with well-padded stiff support reaching the joints on either side. Apply bandages on either side of the site and at the joints on either side support.

4. BURNS AND SCALDS:

A burn is caused by dry heat, and a scald is caused by moist heat like steam, very hot water or oil. IMMEDIATELY cool the area with cold water for 15 mins, till the pain subsides. DO NOT break blisters or apply anything on the burns. Cover the wound with a sterile or clean cloth, pad and bandage. Give fluids to the burn victim.

5. NOSE BLEEDING:

Sit them up facing the breeze and the head slightly forward. Ask them to breath through the mouth and NOT to blow the nose. Apply a cold compress over the nose. The soft part of the nose may be pinched close with the fingers for 10 minutes. Cold application on the back of the neck and forehead may help.

6. BEE STING:

Do not press the bag (of the sting). Use forecaps and remove the sting. Apply cold water or weak ammonia.

7. ANIMAL BITES:

Wash the wound with soap and plenty of water. A loose bandage may be applied. Get quick medical aid.

8. SNAKE BITES:

Keep the patient calm. Wash with plenty of water and soap. DO NOT RUB hard. First, apply a constrictive bandage on the heart side of the bite (Not to be applied continuously for more than 20 minutes). Do not incise or attempt to suck the wound. Get aid quickly. Try to identify the snake.

9. FAINTING:

Lay the patient down and loosen the clothing around their chest and waist. Turn their head to one side. The legs may be raised a little. DO NOT attempt to give any solids or liquids. After they recover, a small quantity of a drink can be given and they can be allowed to sit up and move after rest.

10. GENERAL:

If you are in doubt about the treatment, DO NOT DO anything. You may do more harm.