First Aid
First aid is the immediate care you give to someone who is injured or suddenly becomes ill. It’s not meant to replace full medical treatment but can keep someone stable and safe until professional help arrives.
Knowing basic first aid skills empowers people to take action in emergencies, whether at home, in public places, or at work. This article explains what first aid involves, key principles, tools like CPR and AED use, and what conditions require specific responses.
What Is First Aid?
First aid refers to the prompt medical assistance or treatment given to a person before full medical help is available. The goal is to preserve life, reduce the severity of an injury or illness, and promote recovery. It includes basic procedures like stopping bleeding, supporting breathing, or treating a burn. In many cases, proper first aid reduces complications or even saves lives.
Importance of First Aid in Emergencies
Emergencies can happen at any time—on the road, at work, during sports, or in your home. Responding with the right steps during the first few minutes is critical. First aid can:
- Prevent conditions from worsening.
- Reduce discomfort or trauma.
- Protect open wounds or injuries from infection.
- Support vital functions like breathing and circulation.
In some cases, such as choking, cardiac arrest, or severe bleeding, fast and correct action may mean the difference between life and death.
Key Principles of First Aid
Effective first aid involves three primary goals, often referred to as the “Three Ps”:
| Principle | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Preserve Life | Keep the person alive by supporting vital functions like breathing and circulation. |
| Prevent Further Harm | Protect the person from more injury, such as stopping bleeding or preventing movement in fractures. |
| Promote Recovery | Comfort the person and help their body begin the healing process. |
These actions are often guided by an initial primary survey, known as the ABCs of first aid:
- A – Airway: Ensure the airway is clear.
- B – Breathing: Check if the person is breathing.
- C – Circulation: Look for signs of circulation like movement or coughing; start CPR if needed.
First Aid Procedures for Common Emergencies
1. Bleeding and Wounds
- Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth to control bleeding.
- Use bandages or gauze to dress the wound.
- Elevate the injured area if possible.
- Watch for signs of infection (swelling, pus, warmth).
2. Burns
- Run cool (not cold) water over minor burns for 10–15 minutes.
- Cover with a non-stick, sterile dressing.
- Do not use ice or break blisters.
- Seek medical attention for large, deep, or facial burns.
3. Fractures and Sprains
- Immobilize the limb using a splint or sling.
- Apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Avoid moving the person unless absolutely necessary.
- Seek medical care right away for obvious deformities or severe pain.
4. Choking
- Ask if the person can speak or cough.
- If not, perform the Heimlich maneuver:
- Stand behind the person, wrap arms around the waist, and give upward abdominal thrusts.
- For infants, use back blows and chest thrusts.
5. Cardiac Arrest
- Check for responsiveness and breathing.
- Call emergency services (e.g., 911).
- Begin CPR immediately:
- 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
- If trained and an AED is available, use it as soon as possible.
First Aid for Serious Illnesses
Some emergencies involve medical conditions, not just injuries.
1. Heart Attack
- Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating.
- Call for help immediately.
- Keep the person calm and seated.
- Give aspirin if advised and the person is not allergic.
2. Stroke
- Use the FAST test:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call emergency services
- Do not give food or drink.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
3. Seizures
- Clear the area of objects to prevent injury.
- Do not restrain the person or place anything in their mouth.
- After the seizure, place them in the recovery position.
Tools Every First Aid Kit Should Have
A well-stocked kit helps you handle most minor emergencies. Keep one in your home, car, and workplace. Basic supplies include:
| Item | Use |
|---|---|
| Sterile gauze pads and bandages | Cover and protect wounds. |
| Antiseptic wipes | Clean minor cuts and scrapes. |
| Adhesive tape | Secure dressings in place. |
| Scissors and tweezers | Cutting bandages or removing splinters. |
| Gloves (non-latex) | Protect yourself and the injured person. |
| Thermometer | Monitor body temperature. |
| CPR mask or face shield | Provide rescue breaths safely. |
| Instant cold packs | Reduce swelling and pain. |
Lifesaving Skills
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR keeps oxygenated blood flowing when the heart stops. Knowing when and how to do chest compressions and rescue breathing can save lives.
- Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100–120 compressions per minute).
- For adults, compress to a depth of about 2 inches.
AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
AEDs are portable devices used to shock the heart back into rhythm. Many public spaces have them. Most AEDs offer voice prompts to guide you.
- Attach the electrode pads to the chest.
- Let the AED analyze the heart rhythm.
- Deliver a shock if advised by the device.
Even untrained individuals can use an AED safely with guidance.
When to Call Emergency Services
Call 911 or your local emergency number if someone:
- Is unconscious or unresponsive.
- Has chest pain or difficulty breathing.
- Is bleeding heavily.
- Has a suspected stroke or heart attack.
- Shows signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling, hives, trouble breathing).
- Has a seizure that lasts more than 5 minutes.
- Is badly burned or electrocuted.
Quick action improves outcomes. Always err on the side of caution if unsure.
