| 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 mins. 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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