1.6 First aid definition
First-aid is defined as the application of skilled principles in the event of a sudden illness or accidents by the use of the readily available facilities until the casualty is taken to the doctor for proper medical attention.
The importance of first-aid is to:
i. sustain life,
ii. promote recovery,
iii. prevent the situation from worsening.
The general systematic procedure to be observed when handling casualties involves:
1. Switch off the current
2. Secure release from contact; use non-conducting materials.
3. Start artificial respiration if casualty is not breathing.
4. Send for a doctor or an ambulance.
Treatment of Cuts
Wounds can result from:
a. Bruises, that is, under-skin or surface injury.
b. Minor cuts, that is, slight broken skins with some bleeding.
c. Deep cuts, that is, a major broken skin and muscles with serious loss of blood.
The general procedure is to disinfect the affected part and apply the relevant pain and germ killing ointments. Thereafter, apply suitable dressing before taking the victim to a doctor.
In the case of a deep cut:
1. Stop the cut from any further bleeding by applying a pad.
2. Clean the cut and apply a suitable ointment.
3. Take the casualty to a doctor.
Treatment of burns and scalds
Burns
Caused by dry heat from fire, hot objects or over exposure to the sun.
Scalds
Caused by fluid or moist heat (steam or vapour).
In both cases, the general treatments should be administered as per the prevailing conditions; but the common rules should be to:
1. Place the affected part under a slowly running cold water or immerse in cool water as soon as possible.
2. Remove any constrictions (rings, bangles, boots, etc.).
3. Cover the affected part with a clean cloth.
4. Immobilise the burned limbs.
5. Give small quantities of cold drinks to the victim.
6. Arrange for immediate transport to hospital.
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