Every year many accidents occur. With some care, they can be prevented. In case an accident does happen, you can be help if you know basic first aid. Read each of the following basic first aid techniques carefully as you may be able to give vital first aid if needed. Remember always seek help from an adult immediately.
Do not move the victim unnecessarily and 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 breathing and his blood circulation is patient.
Following are the top ten misconceptions
1. Respiration
If it is weak and failing, give artificial respiration - mouth to mouth or mouth to nose.
2. Bleeding
Arrest the bleeding and protect the wound. Apply direct and indirect pressure. Cover with a dressing; apply a pad and a firm bandage. Elevate the wound site and keep at rest.
3. Fractures
Immobilize the victim with a well padded stiff support reaching the joints on either side. Apply bandages on either side of the area and at the joints.
4. Burns and Scalds
A burn is caused by dry heat and a scald by moist heat like steam, very hot water or oil. Immediately cool the area with cold water for 15 minutes till the pain subsides. Do not break blisters or apply anything on the burns. Cover the area with a sterile or clean cloth or pad or bandage. Give him fluids.
5. Nose Bleeding
Let him sit facing the breeze and the head slightly forward. Ask him to breathe 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 minutes. Cold application on the back of the neck and forehead may help.
6. Bee Sting
Do not press the bag of the sting. Use forceps to remove the sting. Apply cold or weak ammonia.
7. Animal Bites
Wash the wound with soap and plenty of water. Loose bandage may be applied and get quick medical aid.
8. Snake Bites
Keep the victim calm. Wash the wound with plenty of water and soap. Do not rub the area very hard. First apply a constrictive bandage on the heart side of the bite (not to be applied continuously for more than 20 minutes ). Do not incise or attempt to suck the wound, get medical and quickly. Try to identify the snake.
9. Fainting
Lay him down and loosen the clothing and chest and waist. Turn the 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 the rest.
10. General
If you are in doubt about the treatment then do not do anything as you may cause more harm to the victim.
These are only hints and guesses. To be good First Aider you can do the First Aid Course conducted regularly by St. John Ambulance Association in all states. Contact your state centre for details and also join the Ambulance Brigade in your state.
