Did you know that it is estimated that around 250,000 people die each year from injuries that could have been treated with first aid? That’s why it’s so important to know how to help in an emergency situation. In this post, we will discuss the basics of first aid and teach you how to help someone who is injured or sick. Knowing that first aid can make the difference between life and death, please don’t hesitate to learn more from CK First Aid in Australia.
What is First Aid?
Most people probably have heard of the term “first aid” from movies or TV series that involve a medical or emergency situation. But what is first aid? First Aid is the immediate help given to someone who has suddenly fallen ill, been injured, or had an accident at home, on holiday, or at work. It can sometimes be lifesaving and aims to keep the patient stable until more specialized care arrives if necessary.
A person who has received first aid is often said to have been “treated”. First Aid comprises several simple, lifesaving techniques which can be used in emergencies until more specialist help arrives.
What Does First Aid Include?
Four basic steps make up first aid:
- Assessment: This step involves assessing the patient’s condition and deciding on the appropriate first aid measures to take.
- Action: This step involves carrying out the first aid measures decided on in the assessment stage.
- Reassessment: This step is carried out as needed to check whether the patient’s condition has improved or changed and whether further action is required.
- Documentation: This final step ensures that all the steps taken are recorded and that there is a clear record of what has been done in case legal action needs to be taken at some point.
What Skills Do You Need for First Aid?
First aid skills can vary depending on your level of training, but there are certain things everyone should know:
-
- How to assess an injured or sick person – check their airway, breathing and circulation.
- How to treat minor cuts and bleeding by cleaning them with antiseptic wipes or sterile water from a clean source such as bottled water.
- How to deal with major injuries, including broken bones or burns; if possible, get help quickly.
The Takeaway
Knowing first aid can greatly increase the chances of survival for someone who has suddenly fallen ill or been injured. First Aid courses are readily available and can be completed in a relatively short amount of time – so there’s no excuse not to learn these essential lifesaving skills.
Leave a Reply