Life is unpredictable, so you need to be prepared for anything. According to a Red Cross survey, 59% of deaths from injuries could have been prevented if the patient was given first aid on time. With stats like that, it’s easy to determine the importance of first aid.

Basic First Aid Procedures You Should Know

First aid saves lives and there are a few basic techniques that will help people from all walks of life. Learn about the basic emergency services that can help you in life. Whether it’s saving a life or preventing bigger injuries, these first aid procedures are all you need.      

First Aid for Cuts and Burns

Bleeding can be controlled because severe cases can cause death too. If you or your loved ones have cut themselves, take the right measures to stop the bleeding first. Use a piece of cloth or gauze to cover the wound. Apply pressure to stop the bleeding but refrain from excessive force.  

The first step to treating a burn wound is to eliminate the source. If it’s a chemical burn clear it away and likewise. There are simple steps to treat the burns, and if you are equipped with first aid information, you’ll do well.

  • Flush the area with cool water.
  • Take pain medication for relief.
  • Refrain from using ice on the wound.
  • Apply a bandage but don’t tie it tightly.
  • Avoid applying oily remedies on the wound.

First Aid for Sprains and Fractures

The symptoms of sprains and broken bones are quite alike, which is why you need to focus on the first aid treatment. Since it’s almost impossible to differentiate between the two, make sure you treat sprains in the same way as you treat broken bones.

  • Use a cold pack to prevent swelling.
  • Immobilize the limb by using a splint.
  • Give anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief.
  • Keep the limb elevated and don’t try to straighten it.
  • Refrain from applying ice or a cold pack directly on the skin.

First Aid for Poisoning

With over 91% of poisoning cases occurring at home, it’s essential that everyone is well aware of first aid methods used in such cases. There are some simple signs that can indicate if a person has been poisoned and the first step is recognizing the symptoms.

Burns or redness around the mouth, difficulty breathing, drowsiness and vomiting are a few signs of a poisoning case. These signs can mimic other conditions too that’s why you need to act quickly.

  • Make them rinse their mouth thoroughly with water.
  • Make them change their clothes if they are exposed to poison.
  • Make them vomit to remove the poisonous substance from their system.
  • Make sure their head is tilted sideways when they vomit to prevent choking.  
  • Make sure the patient doesn’t have any of the poisonous substance in their mouth.

Conclusion

When everyone is equipped with first aid information, it’s not only possible to save lives but also to prevent potential injuries.