| 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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