Knowing essential first aid techniques can significantly improve outcomes during emergencies. Immediate, correct intervention can preserve life, prevent deterioration, and promote recovery while awaiting professional medical care.
1️⃣ CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
Clinical Purpose: Maintains circulation and oxygenation during cardiac arrest.
Indications: Unresponsive person with no normal breathing.
Technique (Adults):
- Place the person supine on a firm surface.
- Deliver 30 chest compressions (depth ~5–6 cm, rate 100–120/min).
- Follow with 2 rescue breaths.
- Continue cycles until emergency responders arrive or an AED is available.
- If untrained, perform hands-only CPR (continuous compressions).
2️⃣ Choking Relief (Heimlich Manoeuvre)
Clinical Purpose: Clears airway obstruction.
Signs of Severe Choking: Inability to speak, cough, or breathe; universal choking sign (hands at throat).
Technique (Conscious Adult):
- Stand behind the person.
- Place a fist above the navel.
- Grasp with the other hand and deliver quick inward and upward abdominal thrusts.
- Repeat until obstruction is expelled.
3️⃣ Wound Care
Clinical Purpose: Reduces infection risk and promotes healing.
Technique:
- Wash hands.
- Rinse wound gently with clean water.
- Remove debris carefully.
- Apply antibiotic ointment (if appropriate).
- Cover with sterile dressing.
Seek medical care if: wound is deep, heavily contaminated, or bleeding persists.
4️⃣ Burn Treatmen
Clinical Purpose: Limits tissue damage and relieves pain.
Technique:
- Cool under lukewarm running water for 10–20 minutes.
- Remove tight items (rings, watches).
- Cover with sterile, non-adhesive dressing.
- Do NOT use ice, butter, or creams.
Urgent care needed for: large burns, facial burns, electrical or chemical burns.
5️⃣ Managing Sprains and Strains (R.I.C.E.)
Clinical Purpose: Minimizes inflammation and secondary injury.
R.I.C.E Protocol:
- Rest
- Ice (15–20 min intervals)
- Compression (elastic bandage)
- Elevation above heart level
6️⃣ Recognising and Treating Shock
Clinical Purpose: Supports circulation during systemic hypoperfusion.
Signs:
- Pale, cool, clammy skin
- Rapid pulse
- Weakness or confusion
Technique:
- Lay person flat.
- Elevate legs ~30 cm (unless injury contraindicates).
- Keep warm.
- Do not give food or drink.
- Call emergency services immediately.
7️⃣ Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
Clinical Purpose: Delivers defibrillation during cardiac arrest.
Procedure:
- Turn on device.
- Attach pads to bare chest (as illustrated).
- Follow voice prompts.
- Ensure no one touches the patient during analysis or shock delivery.
- Resume CPR immediately after shock if advised.
8️⃣ Controlling Severe Bleeding
Clinical Purpose: Prevents hemorrhagic shock.
Technique:
- Apply firm direct pressure with sterile cloth or bandage.
- If soaked, place additional dressing on top (do not remove first).
- Elevate limb if possible.
- Use tourniquet only if trained and bleeding is life-threatening.
9️⃣ Treating Nosebleeds
Clinical Purpose: Controls anterior nasal bleeding.
Technique:
- Sit upright.
- Lean slightly forward.
- Pinch soft part of nose for 10–15 minutes.
- Avoid tilting head back.
🔟 Recognising Signs of a Stroke (FAST)
Clinical Purpose: Enables rapid activation of emergency response.
FAST Assessment:
- F – Face drooping
- A – Arm weakness
- S – Speech difficulty
- T – Time to call emergency services immediately
Early treatment significantly improves neurological outcomes.
