Essential First Aid Techniques

First aid basics are essential skills that can save lives and promote wellness in emergencies. Knowing how to respond to situations like cardiac arrest, choking, or severe injuries empowers you to act confidently and effectively when it matters most.

1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

   • Perform chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
   • Ensure proper hand placement on the center of the chest, allowing for full recoil.
   • Provide rescue breaths at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths if trained.
   • Continue CPR until emergency services arrive or the person shows signs of life.
   • Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) as soon as available.

2. Heimlich maneuver

   • Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
   • Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the navel.
   • Grasp your fist with the other hand and thrust inward and upward.
   • Repeat until the object is expelled or the person becomes unconscious.
   • If the person is unconscious, call for emergency help and begin CPR.

3. Treating burns

   • Cool the burn under running water for at least 10-20 minutes.
   • Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing or clean cloth.
   • Do not apply ice, butter, or ointments directly to the burn.
   • Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness or pus.
   • Seek medical attention for severe burns or burns covering large areas.

4. Controlling bleeding

   • Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage.
   • Elevate the injured area above the heart if possible.
   • If bleeding does not stop, add more dressings without removing the original.
   • Use a tourniquet only as a last resort for severe limb bleeding.
   • Seek medical help if bleeding is profuse or does not stop.

5. Recognizing signs of heart attack and stroke

   • Heart attack signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, and discomfort in arms, back, or jaw.
   • Stroke signs can be remembered with the acronym FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services.
   • Act quickly; early intervention can save lives and reduce damage.
   • Keep the person calm and comfortable while waiting for help.
   • Do not give them food or drink.

6. Treating fractures and sprains

   • Immobilize the injured area using a splint or by keeping it still.
   • Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain, but avoid direct contact with skin.
   • Elevate the injured limb above heart level if possible.
   • Seek medical attention for severe pain, deformity, or inability to move the limb.
   • Monitor for signs of circulation issues, such as numbness or color change.

7. Handling allergic reactions

   • Identify the allergen and remove the person from exposure if possible.
   • Administer antihistamines for mild reactions, if available.
   • For severe reactions (anaphylaxis), use an epinephrine auto-injector immediately.
   • Call emergency services if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
   • Monitor the person for difficulty breathing or swelling.

8. Treating shock

   • Lay the person down and elevate their legs to improve blood flow.
   • Keep them warm and comfortable, covering them with a blanket.
   • Do not give them food or drink, especially if they are unconscious or semi-conscious.
   • Monitor vital signs and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
   • Seek emergency medical help immediately.

9. Wound care and infection prevention

   • Clean the wound gently with soap and water to remove debris.
   • Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile bandage.
   • Change the dressing daily or if it becomes wet or dirty.
   • Watch for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.
   • Seek medical attention for deep or large wounds.

10. Assessing and maintaining an open airway

    • Check for responsiveness and breathing; if not breathing, begin CPR.
    • Use the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver to open the airway.
    • If there is an obstruction, perform the Heimlich maneuver or back blows.
    • Monitor the airway continuously, especially in unconscious individuals.
    • Be prepared to provide rescue breaths if trained and necessary.