First Aid

First Aid Doesn’t Need to Be Hard: Read These 10 Tips

Can anyone give first-aid? The answer is a resounding yes!! Basic first-aid is not something that needs to be feared or even dreaded. Figuring out how to perform basic first-aid is solely a matter of having the confidence to follow some simple guidelines and procedures. While some may fear performing basic first-aid tasks, we here at HPFY can give you 10 tips on things to know about first-aid to make things easier.

What exactly is Basic First-Aid?

First-aid covers a wide range of topics that ranges from putting a Band-Aid on an ouchie to potentially life-saving CPR. Of course, basic first aid training from a certified instructor is the best way to become accustomed to performing first-aid, but some common sense advice and tips are a good idea to understand. First-aid is defined as medical attention that is administered immediately after an injury and on-site of that injury. Most of the time it consists of simple, one-time treatment that requires very little technology or training to administer. This can include cleaning scrapes or cuts, bandages, and nonprescription medication or ointments. It can even include administering fluids to avoid or recover from heat stress. Advanced first aid classes are available in your community if you would like to take your training to another level.

Complete Medical 100-150 Person First Aid Emergency Kit

10 Basic First Aid Tips

The first step for first aid is making sure you have a properly stocked first aid kit. This should be kept in a plastic container that stays dry and is in an assessable area. You can purchase your first aid kit fully stocked or build one yourself, but there are some necessities you should have and they include:

• Adhesive tape
• Gauze/bandages in multiple sizes
• Cold packs
• Antibiotic ointment
• Elastic bandages (Band-Aids)
• Latex/rubber gloves
• Isopropyl Alcohol (wipes or bottle)
• Allergy medication

 

 

Administering first-aid is a matter of evaluating the situation. This can include the person injured and the surrounding environment. Only administer first aid if the surrounding environment is safe for both you and the injured individual. Some tips involve:

1. Clean Hands

You should always be sure to wash your hands before treating anyone in order to minimize the risk of infecting any cut or scrape. Latex/rubber gloves are a good idea to prevent bacteria from infecting any wound.

2. Stop Any Bleeding

If any wound requires first-aid treatment and is bleeding, simply apply direct pressure to stop the flow of blood. Try to always wear latex or rubber gloves. If the wound has jagged edges that require stitches or the cut was caused by something rusty and requires a Tetanus shot, be sure to have the patient visit the ER.

3. Wound Cleansing

Once bleeding has been stopped, be sure to rinse any wound under running water or with a saline wound wash to remove any foreign objects or debris. Be sure to wear latex/rubber gloves to protect the patient and yourself. You should remove any debris from the wound using tweezers sterilized with alcohol.

4. Bandage Wound or Cut

You should apply an elastic bandage (such as a Band-Aid) or gauze once you have cleaned the wound. Any gauze wrap should be snug but not too tight. Be sure to apply an antibiotic ointment to minimize risk of infection.

5. Immobilization

We have all sprained an ankle or wrist, so when administering first aid for a sprained ankle, wrist, or other joint, be sure to tightly wrap any sprained joint with an Ace bandage in order to stabilize the joint. Ice should be applied ASAP to minimize swelling.

6. Burn Care

It can be common to perform basic first-aid in the event of a burn. You should run the burned area under cool running water. Secondly, apply a burn ointment or spray. You also can administer ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain. Call 911 in the event of a severe burn.

7. Using a Defibrillator

More and more organizations are purchasing Automated External Defibrillator’s (AED) and they are used to deliver an electric shock for somebody in cardiac arrest. They are specifically designed to be used by anyone. Simply follow the voice prompts during first-aid.

8. CPR

If first-aid require cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) always be sure someone is calling 911 immediately. The most important component of CPR is quality chest compressions. CPR should be administered until professional medical help arrives.

9. Heat Stress (Exhaustion) or Stroke

They sound similar but are measurably different. Heat stress or exhaustion is accompanied by profuse sweating, clammy skin, and nausea/vomiting. Heat stroke is more severe and can include a body temperature above 103° and requires immediate professional medical attention.

10. Frostbite

In cold weather climates the cold weather can lead to frostbite quickly. The symptoms include numbness, swelling, and blisters. The first-aid for frostbite includes removing cold/wet clothing and soaking the affected area in warm water. No hot water and no rubbing!!

Performing first aid may be scary, but believe it or not it is not difficult. Don’t be afraid!! These simple tips and some common sense are tools you can use to quickly and safely administer some basic first-aid. Of course, it’s never a bad idea to take an advanced first aid or CPR class to increase your knowledge so you can perform any first aid task necessary.

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