Sometimes we come across very simple information that we have long been unaware of and that would have saved us a lot of trouble if we knew a little about it and put it into action. A case in point is first aid; it could be easily taught, but its importance and real effect are priceless. Learning first aid does not only prepare you to treat minor injuries you might face; it also helps you overcome feelings of helplessness and perhaps regret that emerges as a consequence.
First, let us look at what a first aid kit should include: bandages, adhesive tape, gauze squares, thermometer, ice pack, rubbing alcohol, scissors, soap, tweezers, cotton, calamine lotion, and disposable gloves. Cases that can be handled using first aid vary; some require simple steps, while others may need medical interference after applying first aid.
Bleeding
Many things can lead to bleeding; a cut, a punch, etc. In this case, first, you should apply direct, firm, and steady pressure on the wounded area with a wadded-up cloth, using the base of the hand. Of course, you should be careful not to touch the wound with bare hands; put on a plastic bag or wear gloves to protect yourself from the blood.
Not Breathing
If you see someone not breathing or hardly catching their breath, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, aka CPR, would be the aid you should offer. Performing CPR requires strength and weight to press the chest down effectively, therefore, it requires that the performer to be aged 10 or older.
First, put one hand on the breastbone at the center of the chest, and the other hand over it, with interlocked fingers. The right position for your body should allow you to use your body weight to press straight down on the chest, and this should be done with your shoulders above your hands. Repeat the compression 100 to 120 times a minute; press straight down and then release to allow the chest to return to its original position.
A Minor Burn
First, you should move away from the source of the burn, then cool the burned skin down under running water, and then apply wet compresses till the pain subsides.
If the injured person is wearing tight items around the burned area, remove them gently and quickly. You should also keep in mind to avoid breaking blisters with fluids. If they break, clean the area and apply an antibiotic ointment to avoid any infection. After that, apply a moistening lotion to provide relief, and always try to keep the area as moist as possible.
Finally, apply a bandage to the burn gently; avoid cotton as it may stick to the healing area.
Broken Bones
Symptoms of a broken bone can be evident in:
- Intense pain in the injured area that gets worse by moving;
- Numbness in the injured area;
- Swelling or visible deformity in the injured area;
- Bone protruding through the skin.
In these cases, the most important first aid tip that can help is not to move the injured area. If the injury is in a limb, try to immobilize the area using a splint or sling; if it is in the back or neck, help the injured person stay as still as possible.
You should then apply cold compressing to the area, whether an ice bag or ice cubes in a piece of cloth, and apply it to the injured area for up to 10 minutes at a time.
Real Help
Do not underestimate how you can save yourself and others from real danger by learning more about first aid because, sometimes, it can be truly life-saving.
References
familyeducation.com
healthline.com/broken-bones
healthline.com/burns
nhs.uk
thehealthy.com