How to Give First Aid

How to Give First Aid: A Quick Guide

Knowing first aid can save lives—yours and others'. A little knowledge goes a long way, especially in an emergency. This guide gives you the basics.

1. Safety First!

Before you even think about touching someone, check if it's safe for you.

• Check the area: Is there traffic? Fire? Broken glass? Don't become another casualty!
• Call for help: Dial 911 (US) or your local emergency number. Tell them where you are and what's happening.
• Protect yourself: Wear gloves if you have them. You don't want to catch anything.

2. Checking the Person

Okay, it's safe. Now, gently check the person.

1. Are they awake? Tap their shoulder and ask, "Are you okay?" If they answer, great! If not…
2. ABCs: Check for breathing. Look, listen, and feel. Is there a pulse? No breathing or pulse? Start CPR immediately.
3. Bleeding? Any serious bleeding? Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth.
4. Other injuries? Look for broken bones, burns, head injuries—anything else that needs attention.

3. Common Injuries: Quick Fixes

How you help depends on the injury. Here are some common ones:

a) Bleeding

Stop the bleeding:

• Apply direct pressure.
• Raise the injured area above their heart.
• Use a bandage if you have one.
• Serious bleeding? Get help fast!

b) Burns

Cool it down:

• Run cool water over the burn for 10-20 minutes. Not ice water!
• Remove clothing unless it's stuck to the skin.
• Cover with a clean bandage.
• Bad burn? See a doctor.

c) Broken Bones

Keep it still:

• Use a splint or sling to immobilize the area.
• Apply ice to reduce swelling.
• Suspected broken bone? Go to the doctor.

d) Choking

Heimlich Time (maybe):

• If they're conscious and choking, do the Heimlich maneuver (abdominal thrusts).
• Pregnant or obese? Use chest thrusts.
• Unconscious? Start CPR.

e) Wounds

Clean it up:

• Wash with soap and water.
• Apply antibiotic ointment (if you have some).
• Cover with a bandage.
• Deep wound, heavy bleeding, or infection? See a doctor.

4. CPR: The Basics

CPR saves lives when someone stops breathing or has no pulse. It's chest compressions and rescue breaths. Important: Take a CPR class! This is just a quick overview.

• Check breathing and pulse.
• Call emergency services.
• Chest compressions (100-120 per minute).
• Rescue breaths (2 after every 30 compressions).
• Keep going until help arrives or they start breathing again.

5. Your First Aid Kit

You need a good first aid kit! Keep it stocked with:

• Bandages (various sizes)
• Antiseptic wipes
• Gauze pads
• Tape
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Antibiotic ointment
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Gloves
• Emergency blanket
• First aid manual

6. When to See a Doctor

Even after you've helped, get professional medical attention if:

• They lose consciousness.
• Serious bleeding.
• Trouble breathing.
• Severe burns.
• Suspected broken bones.
• Signs of infection.
• Ongoing pain.

7. Keep Learning

First aid changes. Take a class! Get certified! Stay updated. This information is for learning; it's not a replacement for a doctor.

Knowing first aid is empowering. You can help save a life.