Basic First Aid

Every year many accidents happen.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 needed.Remember always to seek help from a professional 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 clera,that he is breathing and his blood circulation is patent.
  And most of all try to do something-atleast call for help.Remember tomorrow it may be you .

• 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.Elivate,keep at rest.

• Fractures:

          Immobilize 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 Scalps:

          A burn is caused by dry heat and a scald like moist heat like steam,very hot water or oil.Immediately cool the area with 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 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 be pinched close with the fingers for about 10 mins.Cold application on the back of the neck and forehead may help.

• Bee Sting:

          Do not press the bag of the sting.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 hear 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 solids or liquids.On recovery a small quantity of drink may be given and the patient may be allowed to sit and move after rest.

• General:

          If you are in doubt about the treatment Do Not do anything.You do more harm than help.Get Help.


These are only hints.To be a Good First Aider learn the procedure from your State center and also join a Ambulance brigade in your state.