Whether you’re an adventurer who loves hiking the Utah mountains, or a stay-at-home mom, you need to know some basic first aid. Understanding these basics can make a big difference when accidents strike. Here are some basic first aid techniques that you should know:
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Basic First Aid
Many serious injuries can be treated by first aid until medical help arrives. If you witness an accident, the first thing you should do is call 911. But you may be able to help until professionals arrive if you know these techniques:
CPR
- Getting CPR-certified is a great idea, no matter who you are. A proper understanding of CPR may save a life.
- The way you should perform CPR varies depending on your training and knowledge level. You can get certified through many providers, including the Red Cross.
Heimlich Maneuver
- The Heimlich maneuver is designed to help someone who is choking. Only do it if the person is genuinely choking, meaning they cannot breathe or speak.
Stopping Bleeding
- Bleeding can vary significantly in seriousness, from a mild cut to a gaping wound.
- A bleeding artery requires immediate emergency medical attention. You can notice this type of bleeding from its light red color and gushing along with the victim’s heartbeat. Apply firm pressure to prevent as much loss of blood as possible. Lay the person down with their head below the wound until help arrives.
- Deep cuts have slow, dark bleeding that could require stitches. Apply pressure and get medical attention.
- Small cuts in the skin should simply require a band-aid.
Shock
- Shock happens when someone doesn’t have enough blood to their brain. It usually involves one or more of the following:
- Dizziness
- Paleness and sweating
- Quick pulse and shallow breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Shock can be caused by loss of blood, infections, or by burns and allergic reactions. Call 911 if someone with you is experiencing shock after an accident or injury.
- Lay them down and elevate their feet. Warm them with a blanket and check their pulse until help arrives.
- Do not give a shock victim food or water. If they vomit or bleed from their mouth, turn them on their side so they don’t choke.
Broken Bones
- Broken bones often result in bleeding and shock. Make sure the injured person is not bleeding from an artery, and call 911.
- Try to make a splint and sling from whatever materials you have, in order to stabilize the broken bone.
Basic First Aid: Things to Keep in Mind
- If the injury is serious, call 911.
- Remain with the injured person.
- Check for breathing.
- Never give someone in critical condition food or water, because they could choke
- Never put ice on burns.
- Ask questions in advance to give to medical responders, in case the victim passes out.
Contact us today if you have questions about an injury or accident case. We can help you by making your case our first priority. At Christensen & Hymas, we will do all we can to win your case.