First aid: What is it and why is it important?
First aid is the initial set of actions that are taken in the event of accidents, injuries or sudden illnesses, before the arrival of professional medics. These actions can be crucial to saving a life and preventing a casualty’s condition from worsening. The primary goal of first aid is to ensure the stability of the victim’s vital functions, such as breathing and circulation, and to prevent further complications.
Timely first aid can significantly reduce the risks of death or disability. These measures often include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), stopping bleeding, securing injured limbs, providing an unobstructed airway, and other important actions to stabilize the victim until medical professionals arrive.
The basic rule of first aid is to do no harm. Even with a minimal level of knowledge and skill, it is possible to provide the simplest care that can make all the difference. For example, providing the injured person with access to fresh air, preventing unconsciousness or supporting them in a psychologically stressful situation. It is important to remember that first aid is not a full treatment. It is a temporary measure to stabilize the condition until qualified medical attention is obtained.
| Rule | Description |
| Safety assessment | Make sure the scene is safe for you and others before rendering assistance. Avoid situations that could put you at risk. |
| Do no harm | Provide care only within the scope of your knowledge and skills, do not perform complex procedures unless you are confident in performing them. |
| Calling emergency services | Immediately call an ambulance, give the operator the exact location and nature of the accident. |
| Assessment of the victim’s condition | Check the victim’s consciousness, breathing and pulse. If unconscious, check the airway and ensure it is clear. |
| Bleeding control | If bleeding is present, apply a clean cloth to the wound and apply pressure to stop bleeding, apply a pressure dressing. |
| Stable position | If the casualty is unconscious but breathing, place him or her on his or her side in a stable-lateral position to prevent asphyxiation. |
| Use of security features | If blood or other body fluids are present, use gloves or other protective equipment to prevent contact with infections. |
| Support until the ambulance arrives | Stay with the victim until the ambulance arrives, provide emotional support and monitor his/her condition. |
In addition, first aid can be used not only in extreme situations such as traffic accidents, drowning or fainting, but also for household injuries, poisoning or sudden attacks of chronic diseases such as asthma or diabetes. First aid is important for both adults and children. Special situations may require a specialized approach, such as resuscitation of infants or children, tailored to their body.
Regardless of the situation, knowing the basics of first aid allows everyone to become the first link in the chain of saving a life. Thus, learning these skills is essential for everyone, as an emergency can happen at any time and being prepared for it plays a critical role in the final outcome.
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Legal aspects of first aid
The legal aspects of first aid vary from country to country and from country to country. In most countries, there is a moral and legal obligation to help the injured, but the legal implications may vary depending on the circumstances. Many states have incorporated into their laws so-called “good Samaritan laws” that protect first responders from possible legal claims if they have acted in good faith.
The purpose of these laws is to encourage people not to be afraid to give help. In cases where first aid is rendered without malice and within the bounds of reason, the person rendering the aid is protected from legal proceedings. However, it should be remembered that the intervention should be proportionate to the situation and the rescuer should not exceed their knowledge and skills. For example, attempting to perform a complex medical procedure without proper training can lead to complications and legal consequences.
At the same time, there are certain obligations imposed by law, especially for those who are obliged to provide assistance – police officers, firefighters, medics, rescue workers. In some countries, even ordinary citizens are obliged to provide assistance in an emergency situation, and failure to do so may result in fines or even criminal liability. This applies to situations where the victim is in danger and a person with the necessary skills refuses to provide assistance without objective reasons.
It is also important to consider the victim’s right to refuse assistance. If the victim is conscious and refuses the offered first aid, the rescuer has no right to insist. In the case of children or unconscious persons, consent to first aid is presumed.
In addition, documented acts of care, such as calling an ambulance or recording the actions of a rescuer, may also be legally relevant. All this helps to protect yourself from the legal point of view, and also speeds up the work of medics, providing them with all the necessary information about the condition of the victim before their arrival.
Personal safety when providing first aid
When providing first aid, it is important to remember not only the safety of the injured person, but also your own. The safety of the rescuer comes first, because if the rescuer himself is in danger or injured, it will only worsen the situation and increase the number of casualties. The first assessment of the accident scene should focus on identifying possible hazards to all involved.
1.Assess your surroundings: Before you begin assisting, make sure the scene is safe for you. Assess possible risks such as traffic, fire, electricity, or aggressive people.
2.Use protective equipment: Wear gloves, a mask, or other protective equipment when in contact with blood, body fluids, or hazardous substances. This will help prevent you from contracting infections.
3.Avoid risks: If the environment threatens your safety (fire, toxic substances, unstable construction), do not approach the victim, call emergency services.
4.Do not move the victim unnecessarily: Move the victim only in cases of extreme danger (e.g., fire). In other situations, wait for the arrival of medical personnel.
5.Beware of direct contact: If you need assistance, try to avoid direct contact with open wounds and fluids, especially if you have cuts or wounds on your hands.
6.Maintain mental toughness: Providing first aid can be emotionally challenging. Try to remain calm to avoid making mistakes and worsening your condition.
Hazards can be of many kinds: traffic at the scene, fire, chemicals, electricity, contaminated syringes or sharp objects. For example, if the accident occurred on the road, it is important to ensure safety, turn on emergency lights, wear a reflective vest and, if necessary, move the victim to a safe place before beginning assistance. If the incident involves chemicals, it is important to wear protective gloves or a respirator to prevent contact with hazardous substances.
If the threat comes from people (aggression, drunk drivers), it is important to remain calm and avoid confrontation. In such cases, call law enforcement immediately and wait for their arrival.
When working with casualties, it is also important to consider the risk of transmitting infections such as HIV or hepatitis. The use of protective gloves and a mask is a standard precaution. If medical protective equipment is not available, improvised materials such as plastic bags can be used to minimize direct contact with blood or other body fluids.
In addition to physical safety, the rescuer must also be mindful of his or her psychological readiness to assist. Some situations can be traumatic for an unprepared person: severe injuries, death or panic of the victim can lead to psychological stress. It is important to maintain composure and act according to the algorithm. Calmness of the rescuer is transmitted to the victim, which can greatly facilitate the provision of assistance.
Thus, personal safety is an integral part of the first aid process and allows for effective and safe action in emergency situations.
Basics of psychological support
Psychological support is an important aspect of first aid, especially in situations involving trauma, shock or panic in victims. In emergency situations, many people may experience fear, confusion, anxiety or even aggression. The calmness and reassurance of the rescuer can have a significant impact on the injured person’s condition, helping them to cope with the emotional strain.
The basic principle of psychological support is to create a sense of safety and control for the victim. The rescuer should remain calm, speak clearly and confidently, avoiding panicky or anxious intonations. Even if the situation looks difficult, the rescuer should try not to show his or her own anxiety, so as not to aggravate the victim’s condition.
First, it is important to establish contact with the victim. If he or she is conscious, you should calmly address him or her, explain that help is already being provided and that he or she is not in any danger. Simple dialog can significantly reduce stress levels. If the victim does not respond, you can try to reassure them with words, even if they are unconscious, as such actions also help the rescuer stay collected.
An important part of psychological support is the control of breathing of the victim. Often under stress, people breathe rapidly or, conversely, hold their breath. The rescuer can help the victim to resume normal breathing by encouraging them to follow their own calm and measured breathing rhythm.
Psychological support is also important for witnesses to the accident who may be in shock. Calming others helps to improve the overall situation, making it more manageable and reducing panic.
Finally, it is worth remembering that psychological support continues until the medics arrive. Even if all the necessary first aid measures have been completed, a reassuring conversation with the casualty remains an important part of care. The rescuer should maintain contact, not leave the casualty alone and, if possible, keep him or her informed of actions to help reduce stress and anxiety.