First aid is the immediate assistance given to anyone suffering a minor or serious injury or illness. Proper first aid can be the difference between life and death in critical situations.
At Levande Healthcare, we understand the importance of knowing the basics of first aid, whether you are at home, at work, or on the road. In this article, we’ll cover rules of first aid everyone should know.
Rules of First Aid
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
In emergencies, the first and most important rule is to stay calm. Panic can cloud judgment and lead to mistakes. Take a moment to breathe and assess the situation. Ensure your safety before offering assistance. If the area is unsafe (e.g., fire, traffic, toxic fumes), do not put yourself at risk—get help from professionals.
2. Call for Help (Emergency Services)
Once you’ve ensured the scene’s safety, the next step is to call for professional help. In Nigeria, the emergency number is 112. Provide clear information, including your location, the nature of the emergency, and the number of victims, if applicable. While waiting for help, you can begin administering first aid.
3. Protect Yourself (Use Barriers)
It is crucial to protect yourself when giving first aid, especially when dealing with blood or bodily fluids. Use disposable gloves if available, or in the absence of gloves, use a plastic bag, fabric, or any barrier to avoid direct contact. Doing this helps prevent the transmission of infections between you and the injured person.
4. Check for Responsiveness
Before providing any first aid, assess whether the victim is responsive. Gently shake their shoulder and call their name or ask, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, check for signs of breathing and/or pulse. If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing, it is time to administer CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). At Levande Healthcare, our variety of trainings covers essential CPR skills.
5. Administer CPR if Necessary
If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing, start CPR immediately. Follow these steps:
- Chest Compressions: Place your hands in the center of the chest and push down hard and fast, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. If you are uncomfortable with mouth-to-mouth breathing, continue with compressions until help arrives.
Remember, CPR can double or triple a person’s chance of survival if started immediately.
6. Stop the Bleeding
If someone is bleeding, control the flow as quickly as possible. Apply firm pressure directly on the wound using a clean cloth, bandage, or even your hand if nothing else is available. If the bleeding does not stop, continue applying pressure while waiting for emergency responders. In cases of life-threatening bleeds, a tourniquet may be necessary, though this is a last resort.
7. Treat for Shock
A person experiencing shock may show signs such as rapid breathing, weakness, cold and clammy skin, and confusion. Lay the person down on their back and elevate their legs (unless they have an injury that would make this unsafe). Cover them with a blanket to maintain body warmth and keep them calm until professional help arrives.
8. Don’t Move the Victim Unnecessarily
If you suspect a head, neck, or spine injury, avoid moving the victim unless they are in immediate danger. Moving someone with such an injury could worsen the situation, potentially leading to paralysis. Keep the victim as still as possible and wait for emergency services.
9. Know the Signs of a Heart Attack or Stroke
Early recognition of the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke can save lives.
- Heart Attack: Look for chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, or discomfort in the upper body (arms, back, neck, or jaw).
- Stroke: Use the FAST method—Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services.
Administering first aid for these conditions includes keeping the person calm, calling emergency services immediately, and being prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
10. Stay with the Victim Until Help Arrives
After providing initial care, stay with the victim until professional help arrives. Offer reassurance and make sure they are as comfortable as possible. If they lose consciousness or stop breathing, be ready to act immediately.
Conclusion
Knowing the rules of first aid can empower you to save lives in emergencies. At Levande Healthcare, we offer comprehensive trainings through Levande and in partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA). Whether you are a parent, teacher, or professional, mastering these skills can make all the difference in a critical situation. Stay prepared, stay informed, and stay safe.
For more information on our first aid courses, contact us at Levande Healthcare today!
