Helpful First Aid Tips to Remember

When a person is injured or becomes ill, there’s normally a period of time before the victim gets professional medical help. It is within this “length of time” that the victim can be in his most critical condition. What you do or do not do during this time period will make a big difference between “life” and “death”. Thus, having first aid training and knowledge of CPR can have a huge impact on the outcome of a medical crisis.

When faced with a life-threatening situation or even non-emergency situations it will be very important to know how to handle it and the things you need to do.

Here are some helpful first aid tips for some common incidents that you may encounter:

First Aid Tips for Bleeding

When there is slight bleeding, apply direct pressure using a gauze or towel until it stops. If the cut is minor, clean with Hydrogen Peroxide and apply antibiotic ointment, then cover with band-aid. For severe bleeding, have the person lie down with head slightly lower than the trunk to reduce risk of fainting. Put pressure directly over the wound using clean cloth, sterile bandage, or the hand, and maintain pressure till bleeding stops.

First Aid Tips for Shock

Various symptoms show for persons experiencing shock. Skin may be gray or pale, and is clammy and cool. Heartbeat is rapid and weak, with shallow and slow breathing. A person in shock can be unconscious or conscious. Treat the person by getting him to lie down on their back and elevate their feet higher than their head; keep person moving unnecessarily, as well as comfortable and warm. Treat injuries appropriately if any, and if the victim is bleeding from the mouth or vomiting, position the person sideways to avoid choking.

First Aid Tips for Poisoning

Poisoning can be or can’t be obvious, and sometimes its source is easily identified such as spilled household cleaner or medication bottles. If you suspect poisoning, look for signs at once –redness or burns around lips and mouth; breath smelling like chemical; difficulty breathing, vomiting, and unexpected symptoms. If you know the product ingested, look for instruction on labels about poisoning and follow them. If the victim is conscious have them drink milk or water. If the person is lethargic, weak, having seizures, or unconscious, don’t give anything. Call for 911 for help.

First aid given at once can be very helpful for a person’s survival. It’s always good to be ready with your first aid knowledge in case there’s a need to use it.

The Emergency First Aid Training Course covers majority of the helpful First Aid Tips that you can use everyday at home, outside your house or at work.