How To Handle a First Aid Emergency

No matter how prepared you are, serious accidents happen. When they do, it’s useful to know how to handle a first aid emergency. Keeping a few of these tips and mind and possibly getting certified to help, you may save a life one day. Keep reading to learn what to do in various first aid situations.

Get first aid certification.

First aid certification involves earning a document or card that proves that you have completed a training course in first aid. This certification can be useful for many reasons, such as getting a job in the medical field, volunteering with an ambulance service, or simply knowing how to help someone injured. Many different first aid courses are available, most of which are offered through community organizations or private companies. First aid certification is also helpful because few people know what to do during a medical emergency. In fact, around 70 percent of people report that they would feel helpless if they were to witness someone going into cardiac arrest. Knowing what to do during a medical crisis could prevent serious injuries or death.

Calm and reassure the victim.

When someone is injured or in pain, it can be difficult for them to remain calm. However, first aid care is more effective if the individual is at ease. First, you should reassure the victim that you are there to help and that they are not alone. You can do this by talking to them in a reassuring voice. If possible, try to keep them talking to remain focused on something other than their injury. If possible, try to get a friend or helpful stranger to calm anyone distressed by the emergency. If other individuals create panic, it may distress the person in danger even more.

Assess the situation.

Assessing the emergency before acting is crucial because it allows you to make better decisions. Emergencies require fast action, but you don’t want to hurt the victim or make a mistake accidentally. Assessment may include determining the level of emergency and whether or not you are capable of providing first aid. Common emergencies include unresponsiveness, vomiting, and open wounds. You want to ensure you don’t perform any life-saving techniques you’re unfamiliar with. For example, someone with a neck injury should not be moved, but many people feel the need to move the victim to make them more comfortable. If you’re ever unsure about what to do, wait for an EMT team or someone with more medical experience.

Sometimes, it may be necessary to provide simple first aid even if you are not certified. For example, if someone is bleeding, you can wrap the wound until help arrives. However, in most cases, it’s best to wait for someone certified to assist. For instance, providing CPR could do more harm than good if someone has a heart attack. In these situations, it is important to remain calm and follow the instructions of emergency responders when they arrive.

Provide as much information as possible to medical professionals.

If an individual is injured and medical assistance is required, you must call for help immediately. If possible, have someone else make the call while you attend to the injured person. When calling an ambulance, stay on the phone with them and offer as much information about the victim and situation as possible. If no one else is available, it may be necessary to transport the individual to a medical facility. Certain precautions need to be taken if you want to do this safely, so it’s best to wait for an expert.

It’s helpful to know how to handle an emergency, but getting certified in first aid is even better. In some cases, it may be the difference between life and death. Use these tips to take action the next time you witness an emergency.