73 basic first aid

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7/29/2019 73 Basic First Aid http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/73-basic-first-aid 1/16 Respiratory Distress Signals breathing irregularly wheezing, gurgling or making high-pitched noises when breathing • short of breath, dizzy or lightheaded suffering from chest pain, or tingling sensation in extremities flushed, bluish in appearance or pale Passing/vomiting blood BASIC FIRST AID TRAINING MANUAL Introduction First aid is the immediate care given to the injured or suddenly ill person. It is the temporary assistance that is rendered until competent medical care, if required, arrives and takes over. This is a basic program that will concentrate on the first five minutes of care. If your work or lifestyle places you in locations where the EMS (Emergency Medical System) response time is questionable, we recommend that you participate in a first responder program. Properly applied first aid can save lives, reduce recovery time, and quite possibly be the difference between temporary disability or lifelong disability for the victim. Good Samaritan Law Information Good Samaritan laws will generally protect you from liability as long as you: act in good faith are neither reckless or negligent act as a prudent person would only provide care that is within the scope of your training You must not abandon a victim once you have initiated care, and you cannot accept anything in return for your services. These laws vary from state to state. Therefore, you should check with a legal service or with your local library to determine the extent to which these laws protect you. Emergency Response  An emergency is an unforeseen event or condition that requires a prompt response. In the event of an injury or a medical emergency, a victim’s health and/or life may very well depend on your ability to react promptly, make a quick decision and render an appropriate level of first aid care until emergency medical personnel arrives on the scene. When you recognize an emergency, you must be prepared to take immediate action, preferably with an overall plan in mind. This plan must be one that occurs automatically. It should consist of basic steps that will help to establish control of the emergency scene. You must prepare yourself emotionally. Your own self-control may help to reduce the level of stress at the emergency scene. Experience has led to the development of a three-step model for emergency response; 1) Assess, 2) Alert, 3) Attend. Whenever you recognize an emergency you should: Assess the emergency scene for safety. Is it safe to approach victim(s)? If scene is not safe, alert EMS for help. Look for additional bystanders for assistance and make them aware of any existing danger. If you can approach, assess the victim(s) for life threatening conditions. Assess victims for: Breathing, Circulation, Hemorrhaging (severe bleeding) Alert EMS for medical assistance if necessary. Attend for the victim. Complete a head-to-toe exam and provide the necessary care until advanced medical help (EMS) arrives and takes over.  You should call EMS if the patient: Is or  becomes unconscious Has chest pain or pressure Has difficulty breathing Is bleeding severely Has slurred speech, severe headache, or seizures Has a head, neck, or back injury Has possible broken bones Has been poisoned Has pain or pressure in the abdomen Triage If there is more than one victim at the scene of an emergency, the first aid provider(s) should prioritize or classify the injured victims. This process is called triage. This process is the best way to help and provide care that will benefit the greatest number of victims. The first aid provider(s) should classify the victim's priority status into one of four groups:

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Page 1: 73 Basic First Aid

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Respiratory Distress Signals

• breathing irregularly

• wheezing, gurgling or making high-pitched

noises when breathing• short of breath, dizzy or lightheaded

• suffering from chest pain, or tingling

sensation in extremities

• flushed, bluish in appearance or pale

• Passing/vomiting blood

BASIC FIRST AIDTRAINING MANUAL

IntroductionFirst aid is the immediate care given to the injured or suddenly ill person. It is the temporary assistance that isrendered until competent medical care, if required, arrives and takes over. This is a basic program that willconcentrate on the first five minutes of care. If your work or lifestyle places you in locations where the EMS

(Emergency Medical System) response time is questionable, we recommend that you participate in a firstresponder program. Properly applied first aid can save lives, reduce recovery time, and quite possibly be thedifference between temporary disability or lifelong disability for the victim.

Good Samaritan Law InformationGood Samaritan laws will generally protect you from liability as long as you:

• act in good faith

• are neither reckless or negligent

• act as a prudent person would

• only provide care that is within the scope of your trainingYou must not abandon a victim once you have initiated care, and you cannot accept anything in return for  your services. These laws vary from state to state. Therefore, you should check with a legal service or with your  local

library to determine the extent to which these laws protect you.

Emergency Response An emergency is an unforeseen event or condition that requires a prompt response. In the event of an injury or a medical emergency, a victim’s health and/or life may very well depend on your ability to react promptly, makea quick decision and render an appropriate level of first aid care until emergency medical personnel arrives onthe scene. When you recognize an emergency, you must be prepared to take immediate action, preferably withan overall plan in mind. This plan must be one that occurs automatically. It should consist of basic steps that willhelp to establish control of the emergency scene. You must prepare yourself emotionally. Your own self-controlmay help to reduce the level of stress at the emergency scene. Experience has led to the development of athree-step model for emergency response; 1) Assess, 2) Alert, 3) Attend. Whenever you recognize anemergency you should:

Assess the emergency scene for safety. Is it safe to approach victim(s)? If scene is not safe, alert

EMS for help. Look for additional bystanders for assistance and make them aware of any existing danger. If youcan approach, assess the victim(s) for life threatening conditions. Assess victims for: Breathing, Circulation,Hemorrhaging (severe bleeding)

Alert EMS for medical assistance if necessary.

Attend for the victim. Complete a head-to-toe exam and provide the necessary care until

advanced medical help (EMS) arrives and takes over.

 You should call EMS if the patient:• Is or  becomes unconscious• Has chest pain or pressure• Has difficulty breathing• Is bleeding severely

• Has slurred speech, severe headache, or seizures• Has a head, neck, or back injury• Has possible broken bones• Has been poisoned• Has pain or pressure in the abdomen

TriageIf there is more than one victim at the scene of an emergency, the first aid provider(s) should prioritize or classify theinjured victims. This process is called triage. This process is the best way to help and provide care that will benefit thegreatest number of victims. The first aid provider(s) should classify the victim's priority status into one of four groups:

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1. Critical- Life-threatening injuries or illnesses that may be corrected or treated successfully. (Ex.,respiratory arrest or obstruction, suspected heart attack, severe bleeding, unconscious or unresponsive, severehead injuries, open chest wounds, suspected spinal injury, abdominal wounds, severe burns, severe shock)

 Assessment time is critical. The first aider should assess victims in a rapid manner (less than one minute).

2. Serious - Non life-threatening injuries. (Ex., moderate blood loss, moderate burns, fractures, eye

injuries or other injuries or illnesses in which the victim appears to be stable.)

3. Walking Wounded - The victims who appear  to be stable or can move to a specified site for classification. This group should be identified first by announcing: "People who can walk, please move to (a specifiedarea)a safe location."

4. Fatally injured or dead - Victims who have exposed brain matter, have been decapitated, have

severed trunk or have been incinerated. Also victims who have been in cardiac arrest for over 20 minutes (withthe exception to those that are in cardiac arrest due to severe hypothermia or cold water drowning).

Moving a Victim A victim should never be moved from the emergency scene unless remaining at that location is life-threatening. Ideally,EMSshould respond to the emergency scene. If life threatening factors do exist by remaining at the emergency scene, the first

aid provider should take extreme care not to cause further injury to the victim during the move. The spinal cord must beprotected from any twisting or unnecessary movement during this effort. If you must position victim face-up, you should roll victim as a single unit protecting the head and neck from any twisting motion. If possible have another bystander assist you when rolling a victim.

Head-to-toe Exam - Prior to this exam, the first aider should have already assessed

the scene for safety, for other bystanders that may provide assistance, and the victim for:Open airway, breathing, circulation, hemorrhaging (severe, uncontrolled bleeding). NEXT...

1. Introduce yourself and ask for permission to provide care. Tell victim that you are going to check for any

possible injuries that may need immediate care. If victim is suffering from an impact injury, or you suspect head,neck or spinal injury, provide head and neck support.

2. SAMPLE - Follow the SAMPLE chart. These questions are helpful victim assessment steps prior to

checking for the obvious problems

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Standard PrecautionsThe original guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identified a practice called st a n d a rd 

 p r e c a ut i ons as the means that should be employed to prevent infection via blood-borne pathogens such as HIVand HBV as well as other known blood-borne pathogens. Simply stated, stan d ard  pr e c auti o ns means all blood and certain body fluids thatmay contain blood should be considered potentially infectious, and precautions should be taken to protect yourself against

them. To reduce the risk of infection, you should:•  Always place a barrier between you and someone else's body fluids. (Latex gloves, eyewear, etc...)

• Cover all cuts, scrapes, hangnails, rashes, etc.• Minimize the splashing of body fluids.• Handle any sharp object with caution.• Not handle food, cigarettes, make-up... when around body fluids.• Ensure that body fluid spills are cleaned and the area is properly disinfected.• Wash hands or any exposed area immediately and thoroughly after you provide care or clean a spill.The first aid provider should always use body substance isolation techniques for first aid care and during thecleaning or handling of body fluids or items that may contain body fluid. First aiders must avoid contact with all bodyfluids by using barriers such as gloves, mask, gowns and/or any other protective devices. These items should be readily available at the work site.

Bleeding EmergenciesIt is estimated that the average adult's body holds approximately six quarts of blood. The rapid loss of one quart or morecan lead to shock and death. A child losing one pint of blood is in danger. Severe bleeding must be brought under 

control. Classifications of bleeding:Capillary bleeding- The capillaries are the smallest and most numerous blood vessels in the body. When acut or scrape opens capillaries, typically the bleeding will be slow. Your body should be able to control thisbleeding through it's own blood clotting ability. Rarely will you have a rapid or uncontrolled loss of blood in thissituation. First aid for minor wounds includes cleaning the wound with warm soap and water and covering thewound with a bandage to prevent infection

Venous bleeding- This is usually the result of a deep cut that opens veins. This wound will release bloodthat's on its way back to the heart. The blood from this wound will be dark red. It flows steadily. If left untreated,a life threatening condition may result. You must control this bleeding. If bleeding persists after you provide

bleeding control first aid, stitches will be needed. Transport to medical center or call EMS.Arterial bleeding- The opening of an artery results in the most serious type of bleeding. When blood isreleased from an artery, it is oxygen rich and will look bright red. The blood will often spew forth in rhythmicspurts that coincide with the heart's contractions. If a major artery is cut and not treated promptly, it is possible tobleed to death in as little as one minute. Danger! Follow bleeding control sequence and activate the EMSimmediately!

First AidTo control bleeding, first apply direct pressure to the bleeding area. This should be done while wearing glovesand placing a dressing between you and the wound. If this dressing becomes soaked with blood, leave it andplace additional layers on top of it. Removing the dressing will disrupt any blood clotting which has occurred. If the bleeding does not stop, the next step is to elevate the bleeding site above the heart. This will slow down theblood flow to the wound. The final method for controlling bleeding is using a pressure point. Applying pressureon an artery above the bleeding site will cut off the blood flow to the wound and will stop bleeding.

Internal Bleeding

Signs and symptoms First Aid Care

• Bleeding from body orifices• Bruise or contusion• Rapid pulse rate• Cool and/or moist skin• Nausea and vomiting• Painful, tender, or hard spoton abdomen or chest

• Care for shock. Shock will develop frominternal bleeding• Watch for vomiting• Apply ice pack to injured area•Call EMS

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Penetrating ObjectDo not remove a penetrating object. Bandage around object and stabilize it from movement. Keep victim frommoving or thrashing. Call EMS.

Severed Body PartFollow Bleeding Control Sequence. Do not scrub body part. Do not place the part directly on ice. Wrap part in asterile or clean cloth. Place part and cloth in a sealed plastic bag. Place bag containing part on a bed of ice. Donot bury in ice

Bites (Animal/Human)Control bleeding. Clean area with soap and water for at least 5 minutes. Cover the wound with a steriledressing. Seek medical attention for any bites that break the skin. Human bites and animal bites may causeinfection or rabies. Rabies is a virus that spreads from one animal to another. It is usually spread through bitesor contact with the saliva or brain matter of an infected source. If someone suffers from an animal bite, it is bestto contact the animal's owner, or in the case of wildlife call EMS, police or animal control. If rabies has beenidentified, or in the case of an uncaptured wild animal, the victim will need a series of shots (vaccination).

Infection

 An injury that breaks the skin can lead to infection. Common symptoms are: Wound area becomes red, swollen andpainful. Wound may discharge pus. Red streaks may develop near wound. Victim may become ill and feverish. Seekmedical attention for persistent or severe infection. A tetanus immunization help the body fight tetanus bacterium.

ShockCare for shock is standard treatment in all first aid related emergencies. Shock is a condition in which the body'scirculatory system fails to deliver an adequate supply of blood to all parts of the body. When the body's organsdo not receive an adequate supply of blood, they fail to function properly. In a minor injury, the body willcompensate and this situation will be resolved in a short time. In the case of more severe injuries, the body maynot be able to adjust. If the body cannot adjust or compensate for blood or other body fluid loss, shock willoccur. "First aiders" must learn to recognize the signs for shock. If these signs are present during an emergency,appropriate care for shock must be provided.

Signs of Shock• Anxiety, Restlessness or Irritability• Altered Consciousness• Rapid Pulse Rate• Rapid Breathing• Pale, Cool, Moist Skin

Lackluster Eyes, Dazed Look• Weak, Helpless Feeling• Thirst• Nausea

Care For Shock

• Keep the victim lying down, if possible. Roll them on their side if they have not been injured.

• Try to make the victim comfortable.

• Speak in a comforting and reassuring tone to relieve stress or anxiety.

• Control any external bleeding (if necessary).

• Elevate legs 10-12 inches... unless you suspect spinal damage or broken bones.

• Cover victim to maintain body temperature. If possible, provide a barrier between victim and surface. Donot move victim if you suspect spinal damage.

• Don't give victim anything to eat or drink. Provide victim with plenty of fresh air.

• If victim is nauseous or begins to vomit, place the victim on his/her left side.

• If EMS has not been called, make sure a call is made to activate the EMS.

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BurnsThere are more than 2 million burn injuries each year that require medical attention. At least 6,000 people die annuallyfrom burn related injuries. The classifications for burns are:

1st degree/Superficial - Top layer or surface of skin is red and dry, usually painful.

2nd degree/Partial Thickness - Top layers of skin are burned. Skin will be red and have blisters. These

burns are painful.

3rd degree/Full Thickness - All layers of skin are destroyed as well as underlying structure (fat,muscle, bones, and nerves). This type of burn may be quite painful or  (Flame, Excessive Heat, Radiation or Sunburns)

First Aid Treatment for Burns1st Degree Burn1.Cool the burned area.Immerse in cold water or apply cold cloths.

2nd Degree Burn

1.Cool the burned area.Immerse in cold water or apply cold cloths.

3rd Degree Burn

1.Call EMS immediately. (DoNot Apply Water!)

2. Cover with clean drydressing. 2. Cover with clean drydressing.

2. Cover with clean drydressing.

3. Elevate burned limbs above

heart level.

3. Elevate burned limbs above

heart level.

3. Elevate burned limbs above

heart level.

Electrical Burn An electrical burn may severely damage underlying tissue. The victim may have two wounds from an electrical burn(entrance site/exit site). Never go near a victim who has been electrically burned unless you are sure that it is safeand that the power source has been shut off.

General first aid care for an electrical burn:1. Turn power source off.2. Check breathing and circulation, provide appropriate cardiac care (if necessary).

3. Do not move victim unless necessary (Spinal trauma may result from an electrical burn).4. Cover burn with dry sterile dressing.5. Seek medical attention.

Chemical BurnThere are many chemicals that can cause a burn if they come into contact with skin or mucus membranes. (Ex:Chlorine, battery acid, DEBT, etc.) Chemical burns require immediate care. Wash away chemical with flowingwater (gentle flow of water for at least 20 minutes). Avoid hard flushing water pressure. Remove contaminatedclothing and jewelry during flushing procedure. If it is a dry chemical, such as lime, brush away chemical.Contact EMS and/or Poison Control Center. Watch the victim for delayed reactions. For chemicals in the eye,

rinse contaminated eye downward so fluid flows away from other eye.

Smoke InhalationExposure to heat and smoke may irritate or damage airway. Therefore, the first priority is to:1. Move victim to a safe area.2. Check breathing and circulation/provide necessary care.3. Place victim in a semi-seated or reclined position.4. Call EMS.

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Don'ts for burn care:

• Don't apply any home remedy or ointments

• Don't apply ice directly on the skin.

• Don't break blisters.

• Don't remove pieces of clothing or any other item stuck to burn.

• Don't apply a moist dressing to a burn.

• Don't give victim anything to eat or 

drink unless he/she is fully

conscious.

Do's for burn care:

• Watch for signals and changes

in breathing and

consciousness.

• Keep victim from getting chilled or 

overheated.• Seek medical attention if appropriate.

Special precaution must be taken when dealing with children suffering fromburns. Burns that may not appear to be severe for an adult may be life-threatening for children.

Musculoskeletal Injuries An injury to the body's musculoskeletal system requires immediate care. Any unnecessary movement should beavoided. Prompt first aid may reduce trauma and accelerate healing. If you are unsure of severity of injury, treat asfracture or dislocation.

Types of Muscle InjuriesMuscle Strain - Occurs when the muscle is stretched beyond its normal range of motion resulting in a

muscle fiber tear 

Muscle Contusion - Results from a blow to a muscle. This injury is also known as a bruise.

Sprain - Occurs when a joint is twisted beyond its normal range. A severe sprain requires medical attention.

General First Aid

Treatment for strains, sprains, and contusions is commonly referred to as ICE.This stands for Ice-Compress-Elevate.

Ice  Apply a cold pack. Do not place ice directly on skin as this may cause frostbite.

Compress Use an elastic or conforming wrap, not too tight. Try the two finger test. You shouldbe able to slide two fingers between wrap and skin.

Elevate Lift injured limb above heart level to control internal bleeding

Dislocations and FracturesSigns and Symptoms

• Deformity

Swelling and discoloration• Grating sound

• Pain

• Inability to move injured area

• Exposed bone (compound fracture)

First Aid care for dislocations or fractures is commonly referred to as I-ACT. This stands for 

Immobilize, Activate 911, Care for Shock, Treat for additional injuries

Immobilize area (Use pillows, jackets, blankets etc. Stop movement.

Activate 911 (or transport victim to a medical center, supporting injured area)

Care for Shock (See section on care for shock)

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Treat any additional injuries

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Head, neck, and Spine InjuryEach year, more than 2-million Americans suffer a head or spine injury. Injuries to the head, neck or spine canresult in disabling conditions for the victim. You must a/ways suspect head or spinal trauma when the victim hasbeen injured as a result of:• An automobile accident

• Being thrown from any motorized vehicle• A fall from a height greater than the victim's

own height• A penetration wound such as a gunshot• A severe blow to the head, neck or back• A diving accident• A lightning strike• Any serious impact injury

First Aid

• Stabilize head and neck.

• Stop movement.

Maintain an open airway.•  Activate EMS

*lt is important to remember that you should never move victim unless life-threatening

factors are present at the location of the emergency.

Medical emergencies/Sudden IllnessesThere are many types of medical emergencies. You may not know the exact cause of the medical emergency. Youmust initially care for the signals that are present. If you have any doubts about the seventy of the victim's illness, youshould activate EMS immediately. The victim could be in a life-threatening situation.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pale or flushed skin• Cold sweats• Dizzy, light-headed, weak, confused• Nausea or vomiting• Diarrhea• Severe headache• Paralysis• Slurred speech

• Seizures• Breathing difficulty• Persistent pain or pressure

General First Aid CareHelp victim rest comfortably. Interview victim/bystanders:1. Are you allergic to anything?2. Are you on medication?3. When did you last eat?4. What led up to this problem?Look for medical alert tags. Reassure victim.Watch for signals and changes in breathing and consciousness.Don't give the victim anything to eat or drink. Keep victim from getting chilled or overheated. Seek medical attentionif appropriate. If  the victim faints, place position victim on back and then elevate legs 8-10 inches. Do not elevatelegs if 

you suspect a back or head injury. If victim is nauseous or vomits, place victim on their left side.

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Asthma Asthma is an episodic condition that narrows the airway passages and makes breathing difficult. An over production of mucous causes the reduction of airflow on exhalation. When an asthma attack occurs, it may betriggered by an allergic reaction to something swallowed, inhaled, or injected into the body (medication,pollutants, insect sting). Strenuous exercise or stress can also trigger an attack.

Signs and Symptoms• Wheezing/difficulty exhaling• Increased pulse rate• Anxiety• Distended/bulging neck veins• Coughing• Shoulders hunched and chest pulled up by breathing effort

First aid care for Asthma•Calm victim/give reassurance.•Assist victim with any prescribed medication – generally an inhaler or nebulizer •Make victim comfortable.•Contact EMS if signs and symptoms remain the same or get worse.

Diabetic EmergenciesDiabetes is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. People who are diabetic sometimesbecome ill because there is too little or too much sugar in their blood. The signals of a diabetic emergency arethe same as most other sudden illnesses associated with medical emergencies. If you know that the person is adiabetic or if they tell you that they are a diabetic, ask them when they ate last. Chances are their blood sugar isoff balance. If the victim is conscious and can take fluids or food, give him/her some form of sugar. If theperson's problem is low sugar, the sugar you give them will help and signs of illness will begin to diminish. If theproblem is too much sugar in the blood, the additional sugar you give them will not be enough to cause anyfurther harm. In this case, signs will continue to develop. This is a true medical emergency that requiresadvanced medical treatment. EMS should be activated immediately.

First Aid for Diabetic Emergencies1. Interview victim/check for responsiveness and med. alert tag.2. If Conscious - give sugar 

If Unconscious - Call EMS/Monitor breathing and circulation. Provide necessary care.3. No response to sugar - Call EMS immediately and monitor breathing and circulation.4. Responds to sugar - Continue to monitor victim until you are sure that they ill are all right and all the signs andsymptoms of diabetic emergency are gone

SeizuresSeizures occur when the electrical activity of the brain becomes irregular. This occurrence can be the result of an injury, disease, fever, or infection. Seizures may also be the result of a chronic condition known as epilepsy.Seizures can range from mild black-outs to severe and sudden uncontrolled muscular contractions(convulsions). It may be frightening to witness someone experiencing a seizure, but you must remember that inmost cases it will only last for a few minutes. Most people will recover, suffering no residual problems. Infantsand young children are at high risk for febrile (high temperature induced) seizures. This is a medical emergency.The child or infant's temperature must be reduced and medical attention is needed.

First Aid for Seizures1. Call 911.2. Clear the area of any objects that can harm the victim.3. Do not hold or restrain victim or place anything in victim's mouth.4. Cushion the victim's head with pillow, blanket, etc.5. Place victim on his/her side after seizure activity subsides. This act will help to prevent choking.

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Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis) A Severe allergic reaction, also known as anaphylactic shock, is a life-threatening reaction of the body to asubstance to which the victim is extremely allergic. It is impossible to predict the exact course of anaphylacticshock. Sometimes a severe reaction occurs immediately, other times it may take up to 30 minutes or more.

Causes of an allergic reaction:• An insect bite or sting.• An ingested substance (foods such as spices, nuts, fish, shellfish, or medication such as penicillin).• An inhaled substance (pollen or chemicals).• An injected substance (Antitoxins or drugs such as penicillin).• An absorbed substance (certain chemicals when in contact with skin, can result in a severe allergic reaction).

Signs and Symptoms• A rash, skin burning, itching and hives• A feeling of tightness in the chest and throat• Noisy and/or difficult breathing• Nausea• Swelling of face, neck, lips, and/or tongue• Fainting, coma

• Confusion• Dizziness

First Aid for Severe Allergic Reactions An Epinephrine Auto Injector (epi-pen) is the only treatment which can be provided by the first aider. Theepinephrine auto injector is an easy and convenient way to give epinephrine. Epinephrine is a medication usedto treat some severe allergic reactions and respiratory emergencies. The epinephrine auto injector is designedto provide fast, reliable first-aid for potentially fatal anaphylactic reactions. It works quickly to help reversesymptoms which may follow exposure to insect bites and stings, and food or drug reactions. You must be taughthow to use an epinephrine auto injector by a healthcare professional. This is a true a medical emergency!!!! If not cared for, a severe allergic reaction can become life-threatening. Call EMS, provide prescribed medication, if available, and monitor breathing and circulation. Provide necessary life support care until EMS arrives.

Stroke A stroke, also called a "brain attack", is caused by a blockage of a blood vessel or hemorrhage in the brain. A strokevictim will require prompt medical care. The signs for stroke will be similar to general medical emergency signs andsymptoms. A stroke may be preceded by a severe headache and general ill feelings. Care for the person as you would for anyone who has become suddenly ill. This person may be confused or unable to communicate to you. Liethe victim on his/her side. This will help to prevent choking. Do not give victim anything to eat or drink. Call EMSimmediately. Provide reassurance and comfort to the victim. Monitor breathing and circulation until medical helparrives.

Poisoning A poison is a substance (liquid, gas or solid) that has been absorbed, swallowed, inhaled or injected into the body cancause tissue damage and organ damage. This can adversely affect health and cause possible death as a result.

Regardless of thetype of poisoning, you must always call the Poison Control Center for specific first aid care. Be prepared to tell what andhow m uc h poison was involved. Only under direction of Poison Control Center should you provide any specific firstaid treatment for the victim. (If poison is inhaled, remove from area if it is safe to approach). If you cannot reach the Poison ControlCenter, call EMS immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless told to do so by a medical professional.

Signs and Symptoms of Poisoning• Abdominal cramping or pain• Nausea, vomiting, or Diarrhea• Burns, stains and odor in and around mouth• Change in consciousness (drowsiness...unconsciousness)• Poison plants, poison containers, poisonous gases in the area

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Most poisonings can be prevented through:1. Keeping all medicines, cleaning products, automotive care products and poisonous plants out of reach or under lock and key.2. Following all medicine directions accordingly. Make sure you request child resistant packaging. Flushunused medicines. Don't refer to medicine as "candy".3. Storing all harmful products away from food sources.

4. Keeping all poisonous substances in the original packaging.

General First Aid for poisoning Assess the scene for clues and safety.Get victim away from poison if necessary.

 Assess victim response (level of consciousness, breathing and circulation).If the victim is conscious, attempt to get more information.

 Alert the Poison Control Center or your local emergency system. Bring any empty container, plant, etc., to thephone for identificationProvide care for any life-threatening condition

Heat Related Emergencies

Heat illness follows a continuum. In other words, after the onset of a minor heat illness, if left uncared for, major heat illness will result. It is important to recognize and to treat the symptoms of heat illness early on to prevent avictim from progressing to heat stroke. In all heat emergencies you will first need to cool the victim down

Heat Cramps

Signs and

Symptoms Painful

muscle cramps Moist,

cool skin Heavysweating

First Aid

Move to cool placeGive water or 

saline solutionMassage muscle

Heat Exhaustion

Signs and SymptomsCold and clammy

Heavy sweatingWeak pulse ShallowbreathingNauseaStomach crampsWeakness,fatigueHeadache

First Aid

Move to cool placeElevate legsRemove sweat-soaked clothingApply coolpacks Givewater Monitor!

Heat Stroke

Signs and SymptomsHot, dry, red skin

Confusion or unconsciousness

Little or no sweatingFull, rapid pulse

First Aid

Move to cool placeImmediately cool victimby fanning and applyingcool water Remove anyexcess clothing

Call EMS 

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Cold Related EmergenciesHypothermia is a general cooling of the body. Hypothermia can start off mild and, if uncared for, it will become lifethreatening. The sooner you recognize the signs of hypothermia and provide care, the better the chance is that theconditionwill not progress. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION! Never give victim alcohol or caffeine to drink!

Mild Hypothermia

• Shivering

• slurred speech

• stumbling or staggering

• Usually the victim is conscious and can talk

First Aid Care1) Removal from cold environment.

2) Have a source of heat (warm water, fireplace...)3) Replace wet clothing with dry.4)Provide a hat, blankets, coats. Insulate victim.5)Seek medical attention

Severe Hypothermia• Signs and symptoms

• Body core temperature below 90°F

• Shivering has usually stopped, and muscles have become stiff and rigid

• Skin has a bluish appearance and does not react to pain

• Pulse and respiration slow down

• Pupils will be dilated Victim may appear dead

First Aid Care1) Call EMS2) Keep victim from getting colder.

3) Rewarming in the field is not recommended for victims with severe hypothermia4) Be careful when moving victim.5)Treat victim as though he/she could break.6) While checking vitals, make sure you do a thorough pulse check before determining the need for CPR.

Abdominal Injury Always suspect internal damage and bleeding. Call EMS and provide care for shock. Never touch protrudingorgans! Do not try to reinsert organs. Cover abdominal area with a moist dressing to prevent dehydration. Keepdressing moist until EMS arrives.

Eye Injury Any eye injury will require advanced medical care.

1) Penetrating object in eye- Protect eye with padding around the object. Place a paper cup or cone over object to prevent it from being disturbed. Cover undamaged eye with a patch in order to stop movement in theinjured eye. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!2) Cuts or blow to eye- Patch both eyes and SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!3) Chemical in eye - Flush eye with warm water immediately. Roll eye as much as possible during flushing toassist with washing the chemical out. If only one eye affected, rinse contaminated eye downward away from theother eye.4) Loose object in eye - Pull upper eye lid over lower lid. Pull lower lid down and if object is seen, remove withwet gauze. Lift upper eyelid. If object is seen, remove with wet gauze. Never touch cornea of eye.

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Blister CareDo not break a blister. For an unbroken blister, cut a hole in several pieces of gauze and then tape over blister area. Wash opened blister and cover with sterile gauze.

Chest WoundOpen chest wound caused by a penetrating object: Do not remove an impaled object. Bandage around objectand stabilize it from movement. Keep victim from moving about. Call EMS immediately. If open wound withoutan impaled object, cover wound to prevent outside air from getting into the chest cavity. You can use householdplastic wrapfolded several times to place over opening. Leave one corner untaped. This will prevent air from being trappedin the chest. Call EMS immediately!Closed chest wound caused by a blow to the chest area: Have victim hold a pillow against injured area. Watchfor signs of shock because there may be internal bleeding. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION !

Dental InjuryThe following first aid recommendations may provide a temporary solution for dental emergencies, but you

should contact your dentist immediately if injury results in extensive pain or damage. For a toothache, rinsemouth with warm water. Floss any debris that may be causing irritation to surrounding gum tissue. Do not placeaspirin on tooth.

 A knocked out tooth should be placed in a container of whole milk and brought to the dentist. This is onlyeffective if the tooth can be replaced within 30 minutes. If you can't get to the dentist in 30 minutes, rinse tooth incool water, then place it back into the socket, then go to dentist as soon as possible. Do not replace knocked outtooth in infants and young children as they may swallow tooth.

 A broken tooth needs immediate attention. Save broken tooth, if possible. Clean remaining tooth and area andseek dental assistance.

Nose Bleed Care First Aid1)Position victim in a sitting position.2)Keep head tilted slightly forward.3)Pinch both nostrils for approximately 5 minutes.4)If bleeding does not stop, continue to pinch nostrils and seek medical attention.

Remember, you may be the first part of the emergency response that is required to save

someone's life. You may provide the first aid care that creates the differencebetween a lifelong disability or temporary disability for the victim. As a first aider,

you must learn to recognize the signs and symptoms for injuries and suddenillnesses. Quick recognitionof an emergency combined with rapid EMS activation and appropriate first aid care

will help to ensure the well-being of anyone who may need your assistance.

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1.The general order for responding to an emergency is to: A. Alert-Asses-AttendB. Alert-Attend-AssesC. Asses-Alert-AttendD. Asses-Attend-Alert

2. If a dressing becomes soaked with blood you should: A. Remove and replace it

B. Remove old dressing and washwoundC. Place additional layers of dressing over blood soakeddressingD. Place wound area lower than heartlevel

3. Shock may result from internal bleeding. A.TrueB. False

4. Should you remove an impaled object from a victim?

 A. Yes, it may ease victimspainB. No, victim may suffer severe bleeding as aresult

5. Why is it recommended to cover a victim of shock? A. It may be coldoutsideB. Protect victimsdignityC. Maintain body coretemperatureD. To control

bleeding

6. Which sign indicates shock? A. AnxietyB. Eyes-lackluster C. ConfusionD. All of theabove

7. What is the order of care for asprain?

 A.Ice/elevate/compressB.Elevate/ice/compressC.Ice/compress/elevateD.Compress/ice/elevate

8. For chemicals in the eye you should: A. Flush eye for at least 15minutesB. Rush tohospitalC. Have victim blink rapidly for 5

min.

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D. Give victim a cool drink and have them blow their nose.

9. An internal organ is protruding out of a victims abdomen, what should the first aider do? A. Push the organ backinB. Cover organ with clean moistdressing

C. Cover organ with a drydressingD. Do nothing at all

10. First aid for a 1st or 2nd degree burn can best be treated by: A. Applying ointmentB. Applyingbutter C. Applying coolwater D. Putting ice directly on burn area

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11. A person has been in the heat and is cold and clammy, complaining of nausea, cramps and dizziness.What should you suspect?

 A. Heat strokeB. Heat exhaustionC. HypothermiaD. Lyme disease

12. A person becomes weak and dizzy. You see that this person has a medical alert tag indicating that he or 

she is a diabetic. What should you do? A. Give sugar B. Give water C. Do nothing until symptoms worsenD. Lay down victim and apply cold packs

13. Victim is thrown from a motorized vehicle. Victim is conscious and states that he has a tingling sensation inhis feet. You should:

 A. Help victim up and monitor breathingB. Elevate legs and care for shockC. Keep victim lying down, provide support for head and neck, activate EMS and treat for shockD. Place victim on his/her side

14. A person experiencing a nosebleed should pinch their nostrils and lean backwards. A. TrueB. False

15. A uninjured person is very weak and is complaining of nausea. You have to go to another room to getaccess to a phone. How should you position victim?

 A. On backB. On sideC. Slightly elevate upper torsoD. None of the above

16. Anaphylaxis can be the result of: A. Seeing your house burn down

B. An insect bite or stingC. A severe allergic reaction to something ingestedD. Both B and C

17. A Person is in an auto crash. They tell you that they are alright. The person seems to be confused, their eyes lack-luster and they are cold and clammy. What should you suspect?

 A. They are probably alrightB. ShockC. HypothermiaD. Heat stroke

18. What is the first step in controlling bleeding? A. ElevationB. Direct pressureC. Pressure pointD. Checking circulation