© 2009 delmar, cengage learning chapter 16 first aid
TRANSCRIPT
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Chapter 16
First Aid
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:1 Providing First Aid
• Immediate care given to the victim of an accident or illness to minimize the effect of injury or illness until experts can take over
• Reasons for providing correct first aid
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Basic Principles of Providing First Aid
• Remain calm and avoid panic• Evaluate situation thoroughly• Have a reason for anything you do• Treatment you provide will vary depending
on type of injury or illness, environment, others present, equipment or supplies on hand, and availability of medical help
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Steps
• Recognize that an emergency exists• Use all senses to detect problems• Sometimes signs of emergency are obvious
and at other times they are less obvious
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Next Steps
• Check the scene and make sure it is safe to approach
• What to observe • If not safe, call for medical help• If safe, approach the victim• Call emergency medical services (EMS)
as soon as possible
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Next Steps(continued)
• If possible, obtain the victim’s permission before providing any care
• Triage if necessary• Check for other injuries• Obtain as much information as possible
before you proceed
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
General Principles
• Obtain qualified help • Avoid any unnecessary movement of
the victim• Reassure the victim • Use a confident, calm attitude to help relieve
victim’s anxiety• Avoid giving the victim anything to eat
or drink
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
General Principles(continued)
• Protect the victim from cold or chilling, but avoid overheating
• Work quickly in an organized and efficient manner
• Do not make a diagnosis or discuss condition with observers at scene
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
General Principles(continued)
• Maintain confidentiality and protect the victim’s right to privacy while providing treatment
• Make every attempt to avoid further injury or harm
• Provide only the treatment you are qualified to provide
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
CPR
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:2 Performing CPR
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR):– Cardio: the heart– Pulmonary: the lungs– Resuscitation: to remove from apparent death or
unconsciousness
• When performing CPR, you breathe for the patient and circulate blood
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Performing CPR(continued)
• Purpose: keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital body organs
• Performed until the heart and lungs start working again or until medical help is available
• Clinical versus biological death
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Performing CPR(continued)
• ABCDs of CPR– A stands for airway– B stands for breathing– C stands for circulation– D stands for defibrillation
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Performing CPR(continued)
• Evaluate victim’s condition before starting CPR:– Check if patient is conscious– If unconscious, check for breathing– If not breathing, place victim on back– Open the airway by using the head-tilt/chin lift
or jaw-thrust maneuver
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Performing CPR(continued)
• Look for chest movement• Listen for breathing• Feel for movement of air from the nose
or mouth• If not breathing, give two breaths• Make sure breaths are effective• Then check the carotid pulse
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
(continues)
Performing CPR(continued)
• Correct hand placement is needed before performing chest compressions
• Various methods of CPR used• One-person adult rescue for adult
– 30 compressions followed by 2 ventilations (30:2 ratio)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
(continues)
Performing CPR(continued)
• Two-person adult rescue for adult– 30 compressions by one rescuer followed with
2 ventilations by the second rescuer (30:2 ratio)
• CPR for infants (birth to one year)– 30 compressions followed by 2 ventilations for one
rescuer (30:2 ratio) – 15 compressions followed by 2 ventilations for two
rescuers (15:2 ratio)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Performing CPR(continued)
• CPR for children (1 year to puberty)– 30 compressions followed by 2 ventilations for one
rescuer (30:2 ratio)– 15 compressions followed by 2 ventilations for two
rescuers (15:2 ratio)
• CPR for choking victims• Reasons for stopping CPR
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
STROKE– Act FAST• F
– Face-Ask the person to smile. Look to see if it's uneven
• A=– Arms-Ask the person to raise both arms.
Check if one arm is weak
• S= – Speak-Ask the person to speak.
Listen for slurring
• T= – Time-Call 911 at the first sign of stroke.
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Providing First Aid for Bleeding and
Wound
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:3 Providing First Aid for Bleeding and Wounds
• Wound is an injury to soft tissues– Open: break in skin or mucous membranes– Closed: no break in skin or mucous membranes,
but injury occurs to underlying tissues– Wounds can result in bleeding, infection,
and/or tetanus
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Classifications of Open Wounds• Abrasion
– Skin is scraped off
• Incision– Cut caused by a sharp object- knife, razor , blade
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Classification of Wounds
• Laceration– Cut with tearing of tissue by a sharp object
• Puncture– Cut caused by a pointed object
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Classifications of Open Wounds• Avulsion
– Tissue is torn or separated from the victims body
• Amputation – Body part is cut off and separated from the body
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Controlling Bleeding
• First priority because victim can bleed to death quickly
• Bleeding can come from arteries, veins, or capillaries
• Observe standard precautions
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Controlling Bleeding(continued)
• Direct pressure– Pressure applied with gauze- use a clean cloth if sterile
gauze not available
• Elevation– Above the level of the heart- gravity helps to stop
bleeding
• Pressure bandages– Direct pressure and elevation are used
• Pressure on pressure points– Main blood supply to the affected area helps minimize
blood loss
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Controlling Bleeding
• Do not disturb clots– Clots are a natural defense in the bodies attempt to stop
bleeding
• Do not remove dressings– May result in additional bleeding
• Do not clean wound– May also lead to further bleeding
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Pressure Point for Hemorrhage
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Minor Wounds
• First priority—– prevention of infection
• Wash your hands thoroughly before caringfor wound
• Put on gloves• Wash the wound with soap and water• Rinse the wound • Use sterile supplies
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Signs of Infection• Swelling • Heat• Redness• Pain• Fever• Pus• Red streaks• Seek prompt medical care if any of the above
occur
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Tetanus• Tetanus bacteria can easily enter an
open wound– Tetanus is a serious illness caused by Clostridium
bacteria– The infection causes painful tightening of the muscles,
usually all over the body. It can lead to "locking" of the jaw. This makes it impossible to open your mouth or swallow. Tetanus is a medical emergency. You need to get treatment in a hospital
• Most common in puncture wounds• Assess for last tetanus shot• Serious illness• Get tetanus shot or booster as needed
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Objects Embedded in Wound
• Examples such as splinters, pieces of glass, or small stones
• If superficial, gently remove• Objects embedded in tissues should be left
and removed by physician
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Closed Wounds
• Can occur anywhere on body• If bruise, apply cold application to
reduce swelling• Observe for signs of internal bleeding• Get medical help • Check breathing and treat for shock• Avoid unnecessary movement• No food or fluids
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
What should you do?
• You are slicing carrots and cut off the end of your finger----
What should you do??????
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
What Should You Do?
• You are watching TV with your parents. Suddenly your father c/o– Severe chest pain radiating down his left arm– Shortness of breath– Lips are cyanotic– Skin is diaphoretic
–What should you do?
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
SHOCK STATES
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:4 Providing First Aid for Shock
• Also called hypoperfusion• Can exist with any injury or illness• Shock: clinical set of signs and symptoms
that are associated with an inadequate supply of blood to body organs, especially brain and heart
• Causes of shock– Can you name some???
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Types of Shock• See Table 16-1 in text• Anaphylactic
– Allergic reactions causing histamine release and vasodilatation
• Cardiogenic– Heart can not pump
• Hemorrhagic– Excessive blood loss
• Respiratory– Gas exchange is altered
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Types of Shock• Psychogenic
– Severe emotional distress- anger, fear, grief cause dilation of blood vessels
• Septic– Infections or poisoning causing severe vasodilatation
• Metabolic– Causing changes in normal balance or homeostasis of the
body– Loss of fluids from extreme vomiting, diarrhea, and heat
• Neurogenic– NS can not control the size of blood vessels– Injury and/or trauma to the spinal cord
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Signs and Symptoms of Shock
• Skin is pale or bluish-gray and cool or cold to the touch
• Diaphoresis• Rapid and weak pulse• Respirations rapid, shallow, and may
be irregular• Blood pressure very low or unobtainable
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Signs and Symptoms of Shock(continued)
• General weakness• Anxiety and extreme restlessness• Excessive thirst• Nausea and/or vomiting• Blurred vision or changes in appearance
of eyes
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment for Shock• Goals of treatment- Shock states are life
threatening – SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION STAT– Improve circulation—especially – to the heart and
brain– Provide oxygen– Maintain body temperature– *****Reduce effects of or eliminate the cause
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Shock
• Positioning of victim– Best position is supine with legs elevated 12 inches– The position for treating shock must be based on the
patients injuries
• Maintain body temperature– cover the victim with blankets to prevent chilling and
exposure to cold– avoid overheating the victim
• Avoid food or drink– DO NOT GIVE anything by mouth
• Other principles of care
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Shock
• Other principles of care- – Standard precautions if available!– Check the scene– Move victim only if absolutely necessary– CALL 911– Provide care to the victim– Control bleeding– Observe for signs of shock
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Shock
• Try to reduce or eliminate the cause– Control bleeding by applying pressure to sites– Provide O2 if possible– Attempt to ease the pain through position
changes and comfort measures– Give emotional support
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Poisoning
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:5 Providing First Aid for Poisoning
• Can happen to anyone • Poison: any substance that causes a harmful
reaction to the outside or inside of the body • Immediate action is needed• First aid varies depending on type of poison,
injury involved, and the method of contact
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Ways Poisoning Occurs
• Ingesting various substances• Inhaling poisonous gases• Injecting substances• Contacting the skin with poison
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Poisoning
• If poison has been swallowed– Call poison control center (PCC) or go to ER
immediately– Save the label or container– Save a same of vomitus if patient happens to vomit– Methods to induce vomiting- caution– must be told to do
so– DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING on a unconscious
victim
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Poisoning Victim• If poisoning by inhalation of gases
– If entering area- take deep breath- try to hold breath while rescuing patient
– Remove victim from the area– Check for adequate breathing– Provide artificial respiration if necessary– Call for help--- 911
• If poisoning by contact with skin– Wash area with large amounts of water 15-20 min– Will help to dilute the substance– Remove any contaminated clothing – Call Dr or seek medical attention ASAP or PCC
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Poisoning Victim
• Contact with poisonous plants– Wash well with water and soap– If rash develops– apply calamine or caladryl lotion as
directed
• If poisoning by injection– Occurs when an insect, spider, or snake bites or stings– Remove the stinger if possible– Wash the area well with water and soap– Apply sterile dressing and cold pack to help reduce
swelling
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Poisoning Victim• Snakebites
– Wash the wound– Immobilize the area– position it lower than the heart– Do not cut or apply a tourniquet– Monitor breathing- give artificial respirations– Call Dr or seek medical attention
• Ticks– Wash area with water and soap– Apply antiseptic– Monitor for signs of infection– Seek medical attention
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Poisoning Victim
• For any type of injection poisoning---– Watch for allergic reactions and or anaphylactic
shock– Monitor airway– Call for medical assistance ASAP– Reassure patient throughout
– REVIEW- What are the signs of an allergic/anaphylaxis reaction?
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Watch for :• Redness at site• Swelling or edema at site• Itch• Hives• Pain • Swelling of throat• Dyspnea• Dizziness• Changes in LOC• hypotension
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Burns
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:6 Providing First Aid for Burns
• Injury caused by fire, heat, chemical agents, radiation, and/or electricity
• Classifications of burns– Superficial – first degree burn
• least severe type of burn• Involves only the top layer of skin• Skin is red or discolored, mild swelling or
pain• Most common cause of sunburn
– brief contact with steam or hot object
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Classifications of Burns – Partial-thickness -- second degree burn
• Involves injury to the top layers of skin• Blister will form• Skin is red with mottled appearance, painful, may take 3-4
weeks to heal• Common causes—excessive sub exposure, sunlamp, radiation,
contact with hot or boiling liquids, fire
– Full-thickness– third degree burn• Most severe burn• Injury to all layers and underlying tissue• White and or charred appearance, very painful or painless if
nerves damaged• Can be life threatening—if infection, shock develops
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment Objectives
• Remove source of heat• Cool the skin
– Do not use ice– may cool skin excessively
• Cover the burn• Relieve pain• Observe for and treat shock• Prevent infections
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment• Medical treatment--Usually not required for
superficial and mild partial-thickness burns• Rules for when to treat
– If more than 15 % of the body is burned (adult) or 10% of a child’s body
– Rule of Nines– see figure 16:26 p.490– Seek Dr if burns affect face or respiratory tract– Burns cover more than one body part– Less than 5 or greater than 60 years old
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment
• All full-thickness burns require medical treatment
• How to treat superficial and mild partial-thickness burns– Cool area with large amounts of cool water– dry with sterile gauze– Apply sterile dressing– Use non-adhering dressing to area
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment• How to treat severe partial- or
full-thickness burns– Call for help immediately– Cover with a sterile dressing– Elevate affected areas – Do no allow victim to walk– Do not remove any clothing that may be attached to the burn – Watch for sign of shock/ respiratory distress until medical help arrives
• How to treat when chemicals splashed on skin
• How to treat eyes burned by chemicals or irritating gases
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Chemical Burns• How to treat when chemicals splashed
on skin– Use large amounts of water to flush the area– 15-30
minutes– Remove any clothing or jewelry that may still have
chemical– Watch for signs of shock/respiratory distress until help
arrives
• How to treat eyes burned by chemicals or irritating gases
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Eyes
• How to treat eyes burned by chemicals or irritating gases– Flush the eyes with large amounts of water 15-30
minutes– Caution not to drain water into the unaffected eye if only
one is affected– Flush from the inner to outer eye– Watch for signs of shock/ respiratory distress until
medical help arrives
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Summary
• Loss of body fluids can occur very quickly with severe burns
• Shock is common in burn victims• Be alert and know the signs of shock• remain calm- reassure patient-• Call for help ASAP
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Heat Stroke
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:7 Providing First Aidfor Heat Exposure
• Overexposure to heat may cause a chemical imbalance in the body
• Occurs when water and salt are lost through perspiration
• Also occurs when body cannot eliminate excess heat
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Heat Cramps• Muscle pains and spasms
– As a result of water and sodium loss
• Caused by exposure to heat• Loss of water and salt
– Through perspiration
• Apply firm pressure on cramped muscle to provide relief
• Provide rest and move to cooler area• Small sips of water or electrolyte solution
(e.g., sports drink)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Heat Exhaustion• Occurs when exposed to heat with loss
of fluids through sweating• Excessive exposure to heat or high external temperature• Heat exhaustion can quickly become heat stroke• Signs and symptoms
– Pale and clammy skin– Excessive sweating– Headache– Muscle cramps– Nausea and cramps– Fainting and or dizziness
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Heat Exhaustion• First Aid Care
• Move to a cooler area• Loosen clothing• Apply cool- wet cloths• Lay the patient down and elevate feet 12
inches• Give sips of cool water or a sports drink• Watch for shock/ respiratory distress and call
for help if condition worsens
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Heat Stroke• Prolonged exposure to higher than normal
temperatures• Temperature greater that 105F or 40.6 C• Medical emergency—needs immediate care
and attention• Body unable to eliminate excess heat• Normal body defenses are not working• Signs and symptoms• First aid care
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Heat Stroke• Signs and symptoms
– High temperature– Red, hot, flushed skin– Rapid pulse– May lose consciousness
• First aid care– Geared at cooling the body– High temp will lead to convulsions– Cool sponge bath– Ice or cold packs to groin, armpits– Call for medical help ASAP
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Cold Exposure
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:8 Providing First Aidfor Cold Exposure
• Exposure to cold temperatures can cause body tissues to freeze and body processes to slow down
• Needs immediate attention• Degree of injury affected by wind velocity,
amount of humidity, and length of exposure to cold
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Hypothermia
• When body temperature is less than 95ºF (35ºC)
• Caused by prolonged exposure to cold• Signs and symptoms
– Shivering– Numbness– Weakness or drowsiness– Confusion– LOC
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
• Death can occur if body processes become too slowed down
• First aid care– Warm up the victim---slowly– Remove any wet clothing– Warm beverage if patient is conscious and able to
swallow– Bair hugger devices
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Frostbite • Freezing of tissue fluids with damage
to the skin and underlying tissues• Caused by exposure to freezing or
below-freezing temperatures• Early signs and symptoms
– Redness– Tingling
• Other signs and symptoms as frostbite progresses– Pale, glossy skin– Blisters– White- grayish color– Pain– LOC and death
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Frostbite
• Objectives of first aid– Directed at maintaining respirations– Treating shock– Warming body– Preventing further injury
• Common sites: fingers, toes, ears, nose, cheeks
• First aid care• Assess for signs and symptoms of shock
and treat as needed
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Bone and Joint Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:9 Providing First Aidfor Bone and Joint Injuries
• Frequently occur during accidents or falls with variety of injuries
• Examples: fractures, dislocations, sprains, and strains
• May have more than one type of injury to bones and joints at the same time
• They can occur together
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Fracture • Break in the bone• Closed or simple fracture
– A bone break that is not accompanied by an external or open wound of the skin
• Compound or open fracture– A bone break that is accompanied by an open wound on
the skin
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Sign & Symptoms• Signs and symptoms
– Deformity– Limited motion or loss of– Pain & tenderness at the site– Swelling & discoloration– Protrusion of bone ends through the skin– Hearing a “snap”– Abnormal movement of the area
• Objectives of first aid– Seek a doctor whenever a fracture is suspected
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Dislocation • When the end of the bone is displaced from
a joint or moved out of its normal position within a joint• Tearing or stretching of ligaments, muscles, and other soft
tissues also frequently occurs• Signs and symptoms
– Deformity– Limited or abnormal movement– Swelling & discoloration– Pain & tenderness
• First aid care– Same as fracture
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Sprain• Injury to tissues surrounding a joint
– Occurs when the part is forced beyond its normal ROM
• Common sites: ankles and wrists• Signs and symptoms
– Swelling– Pain & discoloration– Impaired motion may also occur
• Sprains frequently resemble fractures or dislocations—treat as fracture if any doubt
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Sprain
• Apply cold pack to reduce swelling• Elevate the affect area• Encourage rest• Apply elastic bandage for support• Seek medical evaluation if the patient has
sever swelling, pain or a fracture is suspected
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Strain • Overstretching of a muscle• Caused by overexertion or by lifting• Frequent site: back• Signs and symptoms
– Sudden pain– Swelling– bruising
• First aid treatment– Rest– Cold pack application– Warm pack after cold reduces swelling– Seek medical evaluation
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Splints
• Devices to immobilize injured parts• Many types of splints are available
– Pneumatic or air splints– Padded boards– Traction splints
• Splints can also be made from cardboard, newspapers, pillows, boards, etc.
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Splints(continued)
• Need to be long enough to immobilize the joint above and below the injured area to prevent movement
• Should be padded• Tied in place• Apply as not to create pressure on affected
area• If open wound, control bleeding before
applying splint(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Splints(continued)
• Never attempt to reposition bone• Do not move the victim• Must splint before moving victim• Observe precautions when using
pneumatic splints• Traction splints
– Special devices that provide pulling or traction effect on the injured bone
– Commonly used for fx of femur
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Circulation Check After Splint
• Verify that the splints are not too tight• Check skin temperature• Check color• Note swelling or edema• Numbness or tingling• Check pulse• If circulation impaired, immediately loosen
the ties
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Slings • Commercial slings• Triangular bandages• Use: support arm, hand, forearm,
and shoulder• Positioning of sling
– Hand should be slightly higher than that elbow– Helps with circulation, pain and edema
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Slings(continued)
• Check circulation– Check for skin color, temp, edema, pain numbness or
tingling– Nail bed check
• Limit movement of limb• If using knots
– Placement – Padding
• Considerations for shoulder injury– Keep arm close to the body– Additional strap can be placed to keep arm against the
body
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Neck & Spine Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Neck or Spine Injury
• Most dangerous types of injuries involving bones and joints
• Movement can result in permanent injury resulting in paralysis
• Avoid any movement of victim if at all possible
• Wait for backboard and adequate help to arrive for transfer
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Neck & Spine
• Injuries to these areas involve a great deal of:– Pain – Anxiety– Discomfort
• First Aid – Check for LOC– assess airway, breathing & circuation– Call EMS– Move only if NECESSARY– Reassure patient that help is on the way
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Specific Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:10 Providing First Aidfor Specific Injuries
• For the most part—– Treatment for burns, bleeding, wounds, poisoning, and
fractures is basically the same
• Injuries to specific body parts require special care
• Examples: eyes, ears, nose, brain, chest, abdomen, and genital organs
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Eye Injuries
• Always involves danger of vision loss• Best to avoid giving major treatment• Obtain help of a specialist• Foreign objects in the eye
– dirt, dust small particles can easily enter the eye– Will cause irritation, and can scratch the eye
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Signs & Symptoms of FBE• Redness• Burning sensation• Watering or tearful eyes• Presence of a floating object in the eye• TREATMENT
– Wash the eye with lots of water– Pull the upper lid over the lower lid to stimulate tearing– Remove the FB when possible– DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE if it is embedded or
you are not able to see it
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Eye -- continued
• Blows to the eye– Caused by fist, accidents or explosions– May cause contusions, and other internal bleeding– May lead to loss of vision
• Penetrating injuries that cut eye tissue– Are very dangerous!!– Do not attempt to remove the object– Cover it if possible and get to an ER ASAP
– Both injuries require the evaluation of a medical professional!!!!
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Ear Injuries• Can result in rupture or perforation
of eardrum• Torn or detached tissue
– apply sterile dressing and apply light pressure to control any bleeding
• Ruptured or perforated eardrum– Place sterile gauze in the outer ear canal– Do not all pt to hit the side of the head– Do not put any liquids in the ear
• Clear fluid or blood-tinged fluid draining from ear
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Ear Injuries
• Clear fluid or blood-tinged fluid draining from ear– can be a sign of skull or brain injury– Allow the fluid to flow out– Keep the patient lying down on the unaffected side
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Brain Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Brain Injuries• Wounds and blows to head and skull can
cause brain injury• Seek medical help quickly as possible• Signs and symptoms
– Clear fluid coming from the nose or ears– LOC– Headache– Visual disturbances– Unequal pupil size– Convulsions– N & V
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Head or Skull Injuries
• Keep patient lying down and watch for shock• If no neck injury – you may slightly elevate
the head• Watch for signs of respiratory distress• Do not give anything by mouth• Continue to watch for changes in LOC and
report all findings to the EMS team
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Nose Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Nose Injuries• Epistaxis is the medical word for nosebleeds• Nosebleeds are usually more frightening
than serious• Nosebleeds also called epistaxis• Causes of nosebleeds
– changes in altitude– Strenuous activity– HBP– Rupture of small vessels after a cold
• First aid care
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Epistaxis
• Treatment– Keep patient calm– Keep in a sitting position– with head slightly forward– Apply pressure toward the midline– If pressure does not stop the bleeding– you may insert a
gauze into the affected nostril– Cold compresses to the bridge of the nose are helpful– Seek medical evaluation if bleeding persists or if a fx is
suspected
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Chest Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Chest Injuries• Usually medical emergencies• Involve heart, lungs, and major vessels• Sucking chest wound
– A deep open chest wound allowing air flow in and out with breathing
– The partial vacuum present in the pleura is destroyed and the lung will collapse
– Place an air tight dressing to the site and immediate medical evaluation is needed
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Chest Injuries• Penetrating injuries to the chest
– Can result in sucking chest wounds– If an object is the cause– do not remove it!!!– Place the victim in a comfortable position– Assess ABC’s and call 9111
• Crushing injuries to the chest– caused by car accidents or by heavy objects– May cause damage to ribs, lungs and heart– Elevate head and shoulders if no spine injury– Assess ABC’s– Call 911 immediately
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Abdominal Injuries
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Abdominal Injuries
• Can cause damage to internal organs and bleeding in major blood vessels
• Intestines and other abdominal organs may protrude from open wound
• Medical emergency• Bleeding, shock, and damage to organs
can be fatal
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Signs & Symptoms of Abdominal Injuries
• Severe abdominal pain• Protruding organs• Open wounds• Nausea and vomiting• Muscle rigidity • Shock symptom
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid of Abdominal Wounds
• Position patient on his/her back– supine• Elevate head & shoulders• Place a rolled blanket or pillow under knees• Place moistened gauze over the wound–
preferably with normal saline or sterile water• Warm tap water maybe used if sterile
supplies are not available• cover with towel and maintain area warm
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Genital Organs
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Injuries to Genital Organs
• Result of falls, blows, or explosions• Can cause severe pain, bleeding, and shock• First aid care is indicated to:
–Contain bleeding–Control pain–Assess and treat for shock as indicated
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid Points for Genital Injuries
• Assess and treat for shock• Do not remove any penetrating objects• Cover affect areas with moist dressings as
you would with abdominal injuries• Collect and save any torn tissue (on ice) to
the medical facility for evaluation and possible reattachment
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Sudden Illness• Topics for discussion:
–Heart attack–Syncope
–Convulsions–Diabetic reactions
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:11 Providing First Aidfor Sudden Illness
• Can be difficult to determine exact illness being experienced
• Base care on signs and symptoms• Information from victim if possible• Look for medical alert bracelets or necklaces
or medical cards
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Heart Attack
• Known by other names as coronary thrombosis, coronary occlusion, or myocardial infarction
• Occurs when there is blockage in one or more coronary arteries
• If heart stops, start CPR• Signs and symptoms• First aid care
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Heart Attack Signs & Symptoms
• Signs and symptoms– Pain – can be radiating to arms ,neck, jaw can
shoulders– Intense shortness of breath– Pallor of skin– especially the lips, nail beds– Weakness– Nausea and/ or vomiting– Diaphoresis– Eventual LOC
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for a Heart Attack Victim
• Place in comfortable position• Call for help-- 911• Assess for breathing and for symptoms of
shock• Reassure victim that help is on the way• *** it is recommended by the AHA the
patients are given an aspirin to prevent platelet aggregation
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Cerebral Vascular Accident- CVA / Stroke
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Cerebrovascular Accident• Also called stroke, apoplexy, or
cerebral thrombosis• Causes of stroke
– Clots or a bleed in the brain
• Signs and symptoms– Numbness– Paralysis– Unequal pupils– Confusion– Slurred speech– N & V
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Stroke
• Call for help 911• Aimed at monitoring respirations• Position- supine• Elevate head slightly and turn head to allow
for drainage of secretions• Reassure patient• Treatment in an ER with interventions in less
than 3 hours from the onset of symptoms can prevent extensive brain damage and recovery
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Syncope
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Syncope/Fainting • Temporary reduction in supply of blood
to brain• Early signs and treatment
– dizziness– Pallor– N & V– Diaphoresis– Numbness & tingling
• If victim loses consciousness, try to prevent injury
• Obtain medical help if recovery not prompt, there are other injuries, or fainting reoccurs
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Fainting
• Postion– supine with legs elevated• Assess for breathing• Loosen clothing• Moisten face with cool cloths• Assess for other injuries• Allow for complete recovery before allowing
patient to stand• Transition positions slowly
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Convulsions/ Seizures
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Convulsions
• Type of seizure—strong involuntary contraction of muscles
• Causes– Hyperthermia– Head injury– Brain diseases- tumors– epilepsy
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Convulsions
• Signs and symptoms– Body muscles become rigid– Jerky movements– May stop breathing– Loss of bladder and bowel control– Cyanosis of skin– Confusion and disorientation– headache
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
First Aid for Convulsions
• Directed at preventing injury• Do not place anything in mouth• Do not force or stop movements• Assess for saliva/vomit– postion head to the
side• Can for help if convulsion last more than a
few minutes or for repeated seizure activity
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Diabetic Reactions
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Diabetes Mellitus
• Metabolic disorder caused by lack of or insufficient production of insulin
• Diabetic coma – hyperglycemia
• Insulin shock– hypoglycemia
• Differentiate between diabetic coma and insulin shock
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Hyperglycemia or Diabetic Coma• High levels of blood glucose• Causes
– Excessive sugar intake– Failure to take insulin– Insufficient production of insulin
• Signs & Symptoms– Confusion– Weakness- dizziness– Nausea and/or vomiting– Rapid – deep respirations– Flushed skin– “fruity or sweet” breath
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment
• Aimed at restoring normal glucose levels for that patient
• Call for help 911• IVF • Insulin administration intravenously • Frequent blood glucose monitoring
– Usually every hour until level WNL
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Insulin Shock or Hypoglycemia• Caused by an excess amount of insulin• Causes
– Failure to eat– Vomiting after eating– Excessive insulin administration
• Signs & Symptoms– Confusion and weakness– Diaphoresis– Pallor– Hunger– Palpitations
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Treatment for Hypoglycemic or Insulin Shock
• Aim is to restore normal insulin levels in that patient
• Activate 911• Administer a source of glucose if conscious• Glucagon injection maybe indicated if pt is
not conscious
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
16:12 Applying Dressings and Bandages
• Dressings used as sterile covering and to control bleeding
• Materials used in dressings• Dressings can be held in place with tape
or a bandage• Bandages used to hold dressings in place,
to secure splints, and to support and protect body parts
(continues)
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Applying Dressings and Bandages(continued)
• Apply bandages snugly to control bleeding and prevent movement of dressing, but not to interfere with circulation
• Types of bandages consist of:– Roller gauze– Triangular– Elastic
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Methods to Wrap Bandages
• Depends on the body part– Spiral– Figure-eight for joints– Recurrent or finger wrap
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Checkpoints for Circulation
• Check circulation after application• Signs of poor or impaired circulation:
– Swelling or edema– Pale or cyanotic color– Coldness to touch– Numbness or tingling– Poor or slow capillary refill
• Loosen bandage immediately
© 2009 Delmar, Cengage Learning
Summary
• Proper first aid can save a life• Provide only care you are qualified
to provide• Always reassure victim and avoid
unnecessary stress and movement• Obtain medical help as needed