chapter 13 : First Aid Basics
There are basic guiding principles that need to be followed in all First Aid emergency
situations:
- First, assess the scene to ensure that it is safe for you and the victim.
- It is essential to call for professional help promptly – dial 9-1-1 immediately!
- Calmly and swiftly assess the emergency, and recognize the problem.
- Give care based on your skills and knowledge.
- Stay at the scene to comfort and calm the ill or injured person until help arrives.
- Do not immediately move the ill or injured person. If you act inappropriately, the
injury may worsen.
Consent
It is vital that you do not provide First Aid to a person that refuses to give you
permission. Follow these steps:
- If the person is responsive, tell them that you are trained in First Aid and ask if you
can help. Permission is implied if you come upon a person who is unconscious or unable
to respond. - If the person agrees, give First Aid.
- If the person refuses help, activate EMS (call 9-1-1).
- Always check for medical tags on the ill or injured, especially on the neck,
wrist, and ankle; pass the information on to the EMS.
- If the person is confused, assume that they want your help.
First Aid Kit:
Your company may have a specific First Aid Kit. It is important to know where this kit is
located. If you have your own First Aid kit – know where it is, keep it in a watertight
container, and be sure to always check that no products have expired.
