Introduction to First Aid

1. To understand the meaning and aims of First Aid

2. To know the basic contents of a First Aid pouch

3. To know the qualities and responsibilities of a First Aider

Learning Objective

Introduction Definition Aims of First Aid The First Aider The First Aid Pouch Case study Conclusion

Scope

What is First Aid?

First Aid is the immediate assistance or treatment given to someone injured or suddenly taken ill before the arrival of an ambulance, doctor or other appropriately qualified person

Aims of First Aid

To preserve life To prevent condition from worsening To promote recovery

Duties of a First Aider

Saving life Stabilizing the condition of victim Minimizing late complications Preparing the victim for evacuation and

evacuating him with skill and dispatch

Qualities of a First Aider

A First Aider must be: Highly Trained Examined and regularly re-examined

to maintain standard Up-to-date in knowledge and skills

In the management of a casualty, your responsibility as a first aider is to: Assess the situation Identify the condition of the

casualty/what he is suffering from Give immediate and appropriate

treatment to the casualty

Responsibility of a First Aider

First Aid Pouch

Essential Items in the First Aid Pouch Individually wrapped adhesive dressings Bandages (Triangular, roller, elastic) Safety Pins First Aid Dressing (FAD) (No. 13 , 14, 15) Proflavine / Anti-septic lotion Plasters Cotton Wool

* Quantity subjective to situations/requirements

Adhesive Dressing or Plaster Used for minor wounds, best choice for small

wounds/cuts Sterile Dressing, FAD

Easy to apply, ideal in emergencies. Comes in a range of sizes and in protective wrapping

Roller and Elastic Bandages Supports joints, secures dressing, restricts

movement, maintains pressure on dressing and limits swelling

Triangular bandages Made of cloth or strong paper. Used for

secondary bandages and slings

Item Descriptions

The First Minutes

You are faced with two casualties: At work a store man working in the workshop

with a power saw had his fingers severed, and blood is spurting from the stump

During dinner, a customer in a restaurant had suffered a heart attack, lost consciousness and his face is turning blue

Take Note

Immediate danger threatens the lives of these two victims.

In Both Cases

Life saving measures must be carried out immediately

Delaying treatment until victims are evacuated or medical help arrives can result in death

At Site

Would you know how to render First Aid to these people ?

Amputation injuryArrest haemorrhage

Heart attackCardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Action Taken

Remember

The first few minutes after an injury or sudden illness are critical

Any delay in starting treatment can cost a life

Result of trauma

Illness

Environmental accidents

Medical Emergency

Conclusion

The most urgent and important First Aid measures are aimed at supporting systems, to ensure oxygenation of the cells.