Amm Arunachalam Hospital - Health Care Tips

Basic First Aid

Every year many accidents occur. With some care, they can be prevented. In case an accident does happen you can be of help if you know first aid. Read each of the following carefully. You will be able to give vital first aid if needed. Remember always to seek help from an adult immediately.

Do not move the casualty unnecessarily. Keep him warm. Make a diagnosis, decide the treatment and treat. Remember the ABC of First Aid. See if his airways are clear, that he is breathing, and his blood circulation is patent.

Respiration If it is failing, give artificial respiration - mouth to mouth or mouth to nose.

Bleeding Arrest the bleeding and protect the wound. Apply direct or indirect pressure. Cover with a dressing, apply a pad and firm bandage. Elevate. Keep at rest.

Fractures Immobilise it with a well padded stiff support reaching the joints on either side. Apply bandages on either side of the site and at the joints on either side support.

Burns and Scalds A burn is caused by dry heat and a scald by moist heat like stream, very hot water or oil. Immediately cool the area with cold water - for 15 mins. Till pain subsides. Do not break blisters, or apply anything on the burns. Cover with a sterile or clean cloth, pad and bandage. Give fluids.

Nose Bleeding Sit him up facing the breeze and the head slightly forward. Ask him to breath through the mouth and NOT to blow the nose. Apply a cold compress over the nose. The soft part of the nose may be pinched close with the fingers for 10 minutes. Cold application on the back of the neck and forehead may help.

Bee Sting Do not press the bag (of the string). Use forceps and remove the sting. Apply cold or weak ammonia.

Animal Bites Wash with soap and plenty of water. Loose bandage may be applied. Get quick medical aid.

Snake Bites Keep patient calm. Wash with plenty of water and soap. Do not rub hard. First apply a constrictive bandage on the heart side of the bite. (Not to be applied continuously for more than 20 mins.). Do not incise or attempt to suck the wound. Get aid quickly. Try to identify the snake.

Fainting Lay him down and loosen the clothing around chest and waist. Turn head to one side. The legs may be raised a little. Do not attempt to give any solids or liquids. On recovery a small quantity of a drink may be given and allowed to sit up and move after rest.

General
If you are in doubt about the treatment Do not do anything. You may do more harm.

These are only hints. To be a good First Aider you can do the first aid course conducted regularly by the St. John Ambulance Association in all the States. Contact your state Centre for details. Also join the Ambulance Brigade in your State.

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