First Aid

Making a decision about calling for emergency medical assistance is usually one of the first things you do when you come upon the scene of a medical emergency. Obviously, some minor injuries may not require calling EMS or even require a visit to a medical facility. Treatment can be effectively given on the scene and no further medical attention will be required unless complications arise. Keep in mind, too, that not all injuries or illnesses require summoning an ambulance to the scene. A victim can be safely transported to the hospital by a co-worker or friend. However, whenever you're unsure of what to do, or feel that emergency assistance is needed, don't hesitate to call for help.

If you suspect a serious injury or the person has collapsed and is unresponsive, get medical help on the scene as quickly as possible. If the victim's airway is blocked, breathing has stopped, and there's no pulse (the ABC's aren't present)-call for medical help before you start CPR.

What is First Aid? It is immediate action taken to treat a person who has been injured or has become suddenly ill. Time can be a critical factor. Minutes, or even seconds, can mean the difference between life and death. First Aid fills the "time gap" until medical help arrives. Knowing what to do can save someone's life, prevent further injury, relive pain.

1. Do not move a victim unless absolutely necessary to either perform life saving techniques or if the victim is in further danger if left in place.
   
   
2. Check breathing. Remember, the ABC's, proper function of the airway, breathing, and circulation are basic to life. Therefore, the ABC's are always your first priority. Other illnesses and injuries are secondary.
   
   
3. Control bleeding if needed, preferably by having the victim apply pressure to the wound. If this is impossible, use a barrier in applying pressure. A word of caution about coming in contact with a victim's body fluids: Contact with the victim's blood, urine, sputum, or secretions could put you at risk of contracting a communicable disease. That's why barrier devices, such as gloves, are recommended when administering f