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Last Updated on April 5, 2024 by Steal the Style
Do you believe in the power of first aid? Because we do!
It can be empowering to feel like you can jump into a dangerous situation and make it better. Only once you’ve taken a course and learned how to help people in difficult situations will you really believe in this power.
Luckily, we’ve made things easier for you. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about basic first aid.
In This Post:
Learning the Basics of Emergency Medical Treatment
Knowing when to call emergency medical services, the signs and symptoms of different illnesses and injuries, and the importance of preventive medical care, are all part of basic first aid learning.
It is also necessary to understand the necessity of knowing when it is appropriate to administer certain treatments, such as CPR, pressure bandaging, and splinting.
Stocking an Essential First Aid Kit
Stocking an essential first aid kit is important for anyone wanting to be prepared in case of minor accidents and illnesses. Having basic first aid items on hand is essential. The kit should include antiseptic wipes, sterile adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, an instant cold pack, a CPR mask, and non-latex gloves.
A basic first aid book or manual should also be in the kit in order to provide guidance on administering first aid if needed. Tweezers, scissors and a thermometer are also good additions.
Treating Bleeding Injuries
If you suspect that the injured person has a head or neck injury, do not move them. Wait for professional medical help. Assess the extent of the bleeding. If it is external, use your fingers or a soft cloth to apply pressure and raise the injured area above the heart if possible.
Loosen or remove any tight clothing from around the wound to reduce the pressure. Clean the wound with warm water and use a sterile dressing or cloth to cover it.
Recognizing and Managing Shock
It is important to be able to recognize the signs of shock and be able to provide initial care for someone who is experiencing a shock. The most common signs of shock to be aware of include pale, cool, and clammy skin, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, confusion, anxiety and restlessness.
If you suspect someone is in shock, lay the person down with their feet elevated and cover the person with a blanket. It is also important to keep them warm and dry. Make sure they are in a safe, comfortable area, and administer oxygen if available.
Getting Certified
Getting certified in basic first aid is an invaluable skill to have and can be helpful in many different scenarios. In order to become certified, individuals first need to complete a reliable, certified first-aid course.
Such courses typically cover how to access and provide basic treatment for life-threatening medical emergencies, CPR and choking major medical conditions, and the prevention and recognition of injuries.
The course also covers how to use basic first-aid items, such as bandages, ice packs, splints, and other items needed for everyday first-aid. If you wish to start getting your certification, visit MyCPR NOW.
Learn More About Basic First Aid
To further ensure you are properly prepared for emergencies, learning basic first aid is key. Look for workshops in your area, or take online classes to gain more knowledge. Remember: when it comes to emergencies, the more you know and the better prepared you are, the better off you and those around you will be.
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