Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid

Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid Basic First Aid Techniques
1
ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II
Multipurpose Cyclone Shelter and Community Preparedness Project
Basic First Aid Techniques

Editorial

Preface
The Indian Red Cross Society, Orissa State Branch has been working as a leading organisation in the
state on Disaster Response and Community Based Disaster Preparedness programmes. It is a fact that
disasters are as old as the human society in the universe. Very often the disasters also create
opportunities for development and generate better community response. We acknowledge development
of science and technology, which enables to detect the disaster and its impact on society. But the
community remains the first responder to any eventuality before external supports reach them. Hence,
building up of their capacities is one and the only option that could reduce the vulnerability. With this firm
belief, the Red Cross in its journey towards building up better and responsive community has been
extending Disaster Response and Risk Management trainings to the vulnerable target groups.
The Hand Book on Basic Techniques of First Aid is a step forward in its mission on the
enhancement of the technical capacity of the Task Force Members, which have been nurtured at the
multipurpose cyclone shelter sites. This book contains important chapters, which explain the basic
techniques of First Aid for volunteers.
We thank KfW and German Red Cross for the extensive support to the IRCS-OSB for implementing the
Cyclone Shelter Construction and Community Preparedness Programmes in Bhadrak, Kendrapada &
Balasore Districts and their valuable assistance for printing this Hand Book on Basic Techniques of First
Aid. We also thank the team, which has prepared the script, editing, designing and graphics. We
acknowledge the contribution of Sri Sanjeeb Kumar Kar (Lecturer), St. John Ambulance for the
development of the script and technical inputs in preparation of this manual. We hope this will be an
excellent tool for the users as a reference document for training on First Aid, dry exercises and mock
drills at community level.
Rabiratna Das
Honorary Secretary
Indian Red Cross Society
Orissa State Branch

Acknowledgement

Contents
Chapter 1 - Basic Concept and Principle of First Aid 1-3
Chapter 2 - Structure and Function of Human Body 4-5
Chapter 3 - Suffocation and Artificial Respiration 6-8
Chapter 4 - Drowning 9-10
Chapter 5 - Chocking 11-12
Chapter 6 - Dressing & Bandage 13-15
Chapter 7 - Wounds & Bleeding 16-19
Chapter 8 - Shock 20-22
Chapter 9 - Fracture 23-27
Chapter 10 - Burn & Scald 28-30
Chapter 11 - Poisoning 31-32
Chapter 12 - Emergency Child Birth 33
Chapter 13 - General Diseases 34-35
Chapter 14 - Water & Sanitation 36-37
Chapter 15 - Handling & Transport of Casualty 38-40

Chapter 1 - Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 1
Basic Concept and Principle of First Aid
People are facing many problems when disaster comes or great

problem occur like an accident, earth quake, sudden illness, cyclone,
etc. At that time there may not have any medical help, so the first Aid is
most necessary for the casualty otherwise casualty may die. So proper
first aid is necessary at that time.
First Aid
First Aid is the immediate initial assistance or treatment given ● Give priority to seriously injured casualties.
to a casualty for any injury or sudden illness before the arrival ● Treat multiple injuries in order of priority, dealing
of an ambulance. Doctor or other expert support. with life-threatening conditions first.
Poperly administered first aid can save a persons life, especially 3. To promote recovery
in case of heavy bleeding, lack of respiration shock or poison
etc. It can also help prevent further medical problems that might ● Relieve any discomfort, pain or anxiety
result from the intial injury or illness. ● Arrange for appropriate medical attention.
Aim of the First Aid The Scope of First Aid

1. To preserve life 1. Diagnosis 2) Treatment 3) Disposal
● Pay attention to safety Diagnosis
● Carryout resuscitation A diagnosis on the basis of the history and clues to any medical
● Control any major bleeding conditon and symptoms and sings.
2. To prevent the condition worsening History
● Make diagosis of the injury or illness This is about collecting information or clues on how the
1 incident happened how the injury was sustained, or how

Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 1 - Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid
the illness began and continued. Including any previous 13. Feel both sides of the hips and gently move the pelvis to
conditions. look for signs of fracture.
Symptoms 14. Ask the casualty to raise each leg in turn and to move
ankles and knees. Look and feel for bleeding swelling,
Sensation of the casualty such as feeling cold or shivery,
deformity or tenderness.
faintness, nausea, thirst and pain which he can, if
conscious, describe. 15. Check movement and feeling in all the toes. Look at their
colour; grey-blue skin may indicate a circulatory disorder
Signs
or cold injury.
Any variation from the normal condition of the casualty
such as pallor, congestion, swelling and deformity which Disposal
can be observed by the First Aider. Stay with casualty until help arrives.According to your
Treatment assessment of the casualty you may :
● Send for doctor, send for ambulance or arrange
A detailed examination of the casualty should be undertaken
transport to hospital.
only after taking any vital action needed.
● Take the casualty to a near by house or shelter to
1. Run your hands carefully over the scalp to feel for
await medical help.
bleeding, sweilling or depression, that may indicate a
possible fracture. ● Do not allow home a casualty who has been
unconscious, had severe breathing difficulty or
2. Speak clearly to the casualty in both ears to check
sings of shock.
response for ear injury.
● Do not give anything by mouth to any casualty who
3. Examine the both eyes for eye injury.
may have internal injuries or otherwise need
4. Check the nose for the same signs a in the ears. hospital care.
5. Record the rate, depth and nature of breathing. ● Allow the casualty to go home, accompanied if
6. Note the colour, temperature and state of skin especially possible.
in the lips, ears and face. ● Advise the casualty to see a doctor.
7. Losen clothing around the neck. Run fingers gently along
the spine from the base of the skull down wards as far as First Aids Dos & DonTs
possible.
Dos
8. Ask the casualty to breathe deeply and note whether the
✓ Quick respond to the calls for medical help and
chest expands evenly, easily.
assistance.
9. Gently feel along both the collar bones and the shoulders
✓ Important things first that is most likely to be of benefit
for any deformity, irregularity or tenderness.
to the casualty.
10. Check the movement of elbows, wrists and fingers by
✓ Give artificial respirations, if breathing has stopped.
asking the casualty to bend and straighten the arm at the
joints. ✓ Try to stop bleeding.
11. If there is any sign of impairement of movement or loss of ✓ Guard against or treat for shock by moving the
sensation in the limbs, do not move the casualty to casualty as little as possible.
examine the spine.
✓ If there is any fracture immobilize immediately.
12. Gently feel the front of the abdomen for evidence of
✓ Reassure the casualty and those around and help
bleeding and to identify any rigidity or tenderness
of the muscular wall.
2 to lessen anxiety.

Chapter 1 - Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid Basic First Aid Techniques
✓ Improvise, if first-Aid material is not readily available. unconscious, had severe breathing difficulty or
signs of shock.
✓ Identify as far as possible, or the of illness affecting
a casualty. ✗ Do not give anything by mouth to any casualty who
may have internal injuries or otherwise need
✓ Assess a situation quickly and safely; summon
hospital care.
appropriate help.
✓ Arrange for removal of the casualty to care of a Symptoms and signs of injury or illness
doctor; nearest hospital or to his/her home.
The casualty may tell you of these symptoms
✓ Remain with the casualty until appropriate care is
available. > Pain > Anxiety > Heat > Cold
> Loss of normal movement > Weakness > Dizziness
✓ Report observations to those taking over care of
> Sensation of broken bone.
the casualty.
Don ts You may see these signs

> Anxiety and painful expression > Burns > Sweating
✗ Do not allow the people to crowd around, as fresh
> Wounds > Bleeding > Abnormal skin colour
air is essential.
> Muscle spasm > Swelling > Vomit
✗ Do not move a casualty without examining and giving
First-Aid. You may feel these signs
✗ Do not attempt too much. do the minimum that is > Dampness > Abnormal body temperature > Swelling
essential to save and to prevent the condition form > Deformity > Tenderness to touch or pressure.
worsening. You may hear these signs;
✗ Don not use unsterilized materials.
> Noisy or distressed breathing
✗ Do not give any medicine to the casualty without > Groaning
consulting a doctor. > Sucking sounds (chest injury)
> Resporise to touch Response to speech.
✗ Do not induce vomiting to a casualty who has
consumed liquid poison like Acid Phenyl assessment Your may smell these signs or remember to smell
of the casualty you may: the glue casualtys breath
✗ Do not allow home a casualty who has been
> Alchol > Burning > Gas fumes >Solvents
Protecting Yourself
● Assess the situation without
endengering your own life. ● If your eyes, nose or mouth or any wound
on your skin is splashed by the
● Wash your hands ; casualtys blood wash thoroughly with
● Always carry protective gloves if soap and water as soon as possible and
possible; consult a doctor.
● Take care not to prick yourself with any ● use a mask or face shield for mouth-to-
needle or sharp objects found on or mouth ventilation if casualtys mouth or
near the casualty, or to cut your self on nose is bleeding;
glass; 3
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 2 - Structure and Function of Human Body
Chapter - 2
Structure and Function of Human Body
To give proper First Aid a First Aider should have sufficient knowledge
about the structure and function of Human Body otherwise the First
Aider cant give proper first aid at any situation.
SKELETON
The skeleton is the hard framwork around which the body is
constructed. It supports the muscles, blood vessels, and nerves
of the body, and protects organs such as the heart.
The Joints
wherever one bone meets another, there is a movable or
immovable joint.
Movable Joints are
1. Ball-and socket joints

The round head of one bone
fits into the cupshaped end of
another, allowing a swivelling
action in all directions as for
example in the shoulder.
2. Hinge joints
The bone ends are controured
to allow bendling (flexion) and
straightening (extnsion) in only
one plane, as in elbow.
3. Slightly movable joints

These allow only slight glidingor rocking
movements. Examples are joints between
the spinal vertebrae and in the feet.
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Chapter 2 - Structure and Function of Human Body Basic First Aid Techniques
Immovable Joint Pulse

The edges of the bones are fitted firmly
together so that htere is no movemet in the With each heartbeat blood is ejected into the arterial system. To
joint for e.g. : Skull bone. accommodate this extra amount of blood the arteries
expand.This expansion travels along the arteries which are
accessible near the surface of the skin and is known as Pulse.
Muscles Pulse is normally felt over the lateral side of the wrist but can
also be felt in the neck, temple, groin and near the ankle.
Muscles cause the various parts of the body to move - as a The average adult has a pulse rate of 72 per minute and for
result we are able to walk. child 80-100 per minute.
Two types of muscles :
Voluntary muscles and involuntary muscles Respiration
> Voluntary muscles are controlled by the will. Oxygen is vitol support of life. While
breathing air is drawn in at the nose
> Involuntary muscles : operate the internal organs, such
or mouth and sucked donwn by
as the heart, and work constantly.
m a i n a i r w a y, t h e w i n d p i p e
(trachea), through smaller
Circulatory System passages (bronchi) and finally
reaches air sacs (alveoli) in the
The heart and blood vessels form the ciculatory system. lungs where an exchange of gases is made. Here, oxygen is
Artery picked up by the blood and carbon dioxide is given up by the
blood to be breathed out.
Arteries distribute pure blood to different organs from heart.
Air is a mixture of gases, about 21 per cent of it is oxygen.
Vein Only some of this oxygen is used up, so that the air we breathe
out contains 16 percnet oxygen in addition to small amount of
Veins transport deoxygenated blood to heart. carbon dioxide. The amount of exhaled oxygen is thus adequate
to resuscitate another person.
Capillaries
The capillaries form the junction between the artery & the vein. Blood Circulation
Connective Tissue In the lungs, oxygen is absorbed by the blood and the waste
product of breathing, cabon dioxide, is released. The blood is
Connective Tissue consists of yellow elastic and while firbrous pumped to the lungs from the heart through pulmonary arteries
tissue which forms a layer between the skin and underlying to be exygented, and then returned to the heart through
flesh all over the body. pulmonary veins to be circulated to the rest of the body.
Skin
The skin classified as outer layer and inner layer; protects from
weather, dust, germ and cover the whole body.
Cell
The human body consists millions of cells. Many cells group
together to form tissues, many tissues group together to form
organ systems and many organ systems group together and
coordinate to form a living body.
5
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 3 - Suffocation adn Artificial Respiration
Chapter - 3
Suffocation and Artificial Respiration
At the time of Disaster many people die due to suffocation, so First
Aider should have sufficient knowledge and technique about
artificial respiration.
6. Chest wall sucking in as the casualty breaths in.

Suffocation
suffocation is a conditon caused not only by smothering
Management
but also by any condition that stops oxygen being taken up Aims are :
from the lungs by blood. 1. To restore a supply of fresh air to the casualtys
The depletion of oxygen in the body is known as lungs
suffocation or hypoxia. 2. to seek medical aid
3. Remove any obstruction to the casualtys mouth.
4. If the casulty is unconscious, open the airways,
5. Check for breathing and if no breathing and
circulation, ready to resuscitate. Place the casualty
in recovery position.
Resuscitation
Adult Child
For life to continue, the body requires an adequate supply of
oxygen to enter the lungs and be transferred to all cells in the
body through the bloodstream.Without oxygen, the casulty will
Sings and Sympotms lose consciousness, the heartbeat and breathing will cease, in
between 3 minutes or 180 seconds result is death. In this moment
1. Rapid breathing and gasping for breath. if we will apply DRABC Rules then the casualty will revive.
2. Noisy, laboured breathing
The Initial assessment is DRABC
3. Flaring of the nostrils
4. Confusion and aggression, leading to D anger - remove the danger immediately.
unconsciousness (From Self and from casualty)
5. Grey, blue skin R esponse - checking casualtys response.
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Chapter 3 - Suffocation adn Artificial Respiration Basic First Aid Techniques
A irway - must be open so that oxygen can enter the body. 2. Listen for sounds of breathing.
B reathing - must take place so that oxygen can enter the blood
stream via the lungs.
C irculation - the blood must travel to each cells of the body.

Checking Casultys response
For Adult For Child (1-7)
First establish whether the casualty is conscious or
3. Feel the expired air by your check.
unconscious. Try to get a response by asking. Gently shake
the shoulder of the casulty. If there is no response, shout for 4. Do these chedks for up to ten seconds before deciding
help then proceed to opening the airway. that breathing is absent.
Mouth to-mouth Ventilation

1. Make sure that the airways is still open with two fingers
under the casualtys chin and the other hand on his
forehead
2. Close the casualtys nose by pinching it with your index

finger and the thumb. Take a full breath, and place your
lips around the casultys mouth, making a good seal.
Clean Mouth
Slightly tilt the head, open mouth and check for any obstruction,
if there is any obstruction, may be residual vomits, bleeding or
broken teeth, clean it by your finger.
Opening the Airway

An unconscious casultys airway may become narrowed or For Adult For Child (1-7)
blocked. This makes breathing difficult and noisy, or completely

3. Blow into the casultys mouth until you see the chest rise.
4. Adult - Give two effective rescue breathing, aiming at

one breathe every two second. (2 sec + 4 sec = 6 sec)
5. Child - Give five effective rescue breathing, aiming at

one breathe every 3 second.
impossible. Careful, there might be head or neck injuries. lift

the chin and tilt the head back very slightly - just far enough to
open the casultys airway.
Check for breathing
6. Remove your lips from casualties lips and finger
1. Look along the chest to see if the chest rises,
from casualtys nose and allow the air to carry out from
indicating breathing. 7 the casualtys chests likewise give 2 effective rescue
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 3 - Suffocation adn Artificial Respiration
breathing then assess the casualty for sign of circulation - Give very gentle breathes, just enough to make the
chest rise.
by palpating the neck pulse with your two fingers.
- Allow the chest to fall between each breath.
7. Adult - If sign of circulation is present give 10 effective
- If sign of circulation is not present at branchial
breathes per minute, then re-check pulse.
pressure point then place your 2 fingers on your
8. Child - If sign of cirulation is present give 20 effective breast bone, one finger below the nipples line. You
breathes per minutes, then re-check pulse. need to press very gently about 1/3rd of the depth
of the chest.
9. If signs of ciruculation is not present start external chest
Caution :
compression
a. Dont shake a baby during response check, just
pinch or rub sole of the foot.
b. Dont tilt head, just lift chin during airway check.
14. If breathing returns, place the casualty in the recovery

position.
10. Lean well over the casualty with your arms straight.
11. Press down vertically on the breastbone and depress the

chest by about one-third of its depth. For Adult
12. Adult - (a) Complete 15 chest compressions, aiming for

about 100 per minute.
(b) Continue alternating 15 chest compression with two

breathes. For Child (1-7)
13. Child - (a) Give 5 chest compressions, aiming for about

Guidelines for CPR-
100 per minute.
Age Chest Compression Artificial Respiration
(b) Continue alternating 5 chest compressions with one
breaths of mouth to mouth ventilation. Under 1 5 (with 2 fingers) 1 on mouth and nose
15. Babies under 1yr. - 1 to 7 5 (with 1 hand) 1 (on mouth only)
- Seal your mouth around the babys mouth and nose. 8 or over 15 (with 2 hands) 2 (on mouth or nose only)
8
Chapter 4 - Drowning Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 5
Drowning
Drowing causes asphyxia or suffocation by the entering
of water into the lungs or by causing the throat to go
into spasm constricting the air passage.
● To get air into the casualtys lungs as first as possible

in water if necessary.
● To keep casualty warm.
● To arrange removal to hospital.
● In carrying the casualty from water to safety keep

the persons head lower than the rest of the body to
Symptoms and Signs reduce the risk of inhailing water. Lift the persons
head above the water.
● General symptoms and signs of asphyxia.
Management
● Froth around the casualtys lips, mouth and nostrils.
1. Lay the casualty down on right side and give pressure
Aims are :
on stomach for out of water.
● To restore adequate breathing.
9
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 4 - Drowning
2. Month-to-mouth breathing. If resuscitating, beaware that water in the lungs and the
effects of cold can increase resistence to artificial
3. If in deeper water, give the occasional breath of air while
ventilation.
taking the casualty ashore.
5. As soon as the person start breathing palce him in the
recovery position
6. Treat for collapse condition
4. If resuscitating. beware that water, give the occasional

breath of air while taking the casualty ashore
Casualty is Conscious ?
Yes No
Give the First Aid and Check Breathing

send to the Doctor Health
Centre or Hospital No Yes
Give artificial Open airway, place in recovery

respiration position.
Check Blood circulation
No Yes
Give artificial respiration with

external chest compression, if Give only artificial respiration if
breathing is back place in breathing is back place in recovery
recovery position. position.
Send to the Hospital
10
Chapter 5 - Chocking Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 6
Chocking
A foreign object that is stuck at the back of the throat may
either block the throat or induce muscular spasm, this is
called as choking.
Choking is most common with children. A marble, a weed or a Management

button may get struct in the air passage. In adults too, food may
For an Adult
go down the wrong way and choke him.
1. If the casualty is breathing, encourage to cough as this
will help to dislodge the obstruction.
2. If the casualty seems to be weakening, or stops

coughing or breathing. stand to
the side and slightly behind,
bend the casualty forwards
so that his/her head is
lower than his/
her chest
Sign and Symptom and give five
sharp slaps
● Difficulty in speaking and breathing.
to the
● Casualty holds his or her hand to the throat. casualtys
● Casultys lips and tongue may start to turn blue blue back
to lack of oxygen. between the
shoulder
● Casualty becomes unconscious if the blockage is blades.
not removed. Check the
Aims are : mouth.
● To remove the obstruction and restore normal 3. If the back slaps fall, stand behind the casualty, place
breathing. your arms around the casualtys abdomen, bend her
● To arrange urgent removal to hospital, if slightly forwards and put your fist just below the base of
necessary. the breastbone. Put your hand son top and pull sharply
11 inwards and upwards five times. Check for the object.

Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 5 - Chocking
Repeat step 2 and For the Unconcious Choking Casualty -

3 couple of times.
1. Turn the casualty on to her back, open her airway and
Continue the cycle
begin artificial ventilation.
until help arrives. If
the casualty
b e c o m e s
unconscious, or is
knwon to have
chocked carry out
the artificial
ventilation. Put the
casualty in
recovery position
after breathing
STEP - 1
normally.
2. If this is not successful roll her onto the side facing you
In case of Baby 0-12 months
with her chest against the thigh and her head well back
1. If shows sings of and perform upto 4 back slaps as described above.
becoming weak or
stops coughing, lay
the baby face down
on your forearm
with his head low
STEP - 2
and support his
back and chin. Give
up to five sharp
back slaps between
the shoulder
blades.
3. Check the mouth to see if the obstruction has been
2. Check the babys
dislodged. If it has, hook it out with your finger, it it has not
mouth remove any obvious obstruction with one finger.
turn the casualty onto her back with her head in the open
Do not feel blindly down the babys
airway position and perform abdominal thrust.
3. If the obstruction still has not cleared repeat the steps 1-3 4. Check the mouth again to see if the obstruction has been
until help arrives. dislodged.
4. If the baby becomes unconscious carry out the artificial 5. When the obstruction has been removed and the casualty
ventilation. breathing, place her in recovery position and arrange
removal to hospital.
12
Chapter 6 - Dressing & Bandage Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 6
Dressing and bandage
At the time of disaster people are faced with different types of
injury, the First Aider should know the technique and usages
of dressing and bandages for the control bleeding, swelling
and immobilize the injury part.
Dressing Gauze Dressing

A dressing is a protective covering applied to a wound to prevent Gauze in layers is comonly used as a
infection, absorb discharge, control bleeding and hlep the blood dressing for large wounds, as it is very
clotting process and avoid further injury. absorbent, soft and pliable. It is liable
to adhere to the wound, however, this
General rules of applying dressing may assist the clotting of blood.
1 The dressing pad should always extend well beyond the
wounds adges.
Improvised Dressing
2. Place dressing directly on a wound. Do not slide them on
form the side. These can be from any clean handkerchief, linen, Freshly
laundered clothes are best, paper tissue could be used. Do not
3. If blood seeps through a dressing, do not remove it;
use fluffy materials as the fibres may stick to and contaminate.
instead, apply another dressing over the top.
Follow the same procedure as above.
4. Use sterile dressing where possible. Where possile wash
your hands throughly before dressing a wound.
Adhesive Dressing
Useful for small wounds, these
consits of gause or cellulose pad
with an adhesive backing in various
sizes. Use water proof adhesive
dressings
w h e r e
necessary.
Non -
Adhesive Dressing ➊
Ready made sterile dressing consists
of layers of gauze covered by a pad of ➋
cotton wool and with an attached roller
bandage to hold it in position.
13
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 6 - Dressing & Bandage
Bandages Slings
There are two types of banges Slings are used to support the arm of a casualty who is sitting or
is able to walk. There are three types of sling. Arm sling,
1. Triangular Bandages
Collar & Cuff Sling and Traingular Sling.
2. Roller bandages
Arm Sling
Triangular Bandages
These bandages
can be made by ➊ ➋
cutting a piece of
linen or calico, not
less than 38 inches
square, diagonally
into two pieces.
It has thee borders - the longest is called the base the
other two the sides, There are three corners the upper one
(opposite the base) is called the point and the others the ends.
Supports the arm with the forearm horizontal or slightly raised,
used for an injured upper arm, wrist, or forearm or simple rib
Making a broad fold and narrow bandage and fracture.
storage
1. Open out a triangular bandage and lay it flat on a clean Collar & Cuff Sling
surface. Fold it horizontally so that the point touches the To support the wrist, e.g, in fractures of the upper limb, knot
centre of the base. near the wrist.
2. Fold the tringular bandage in half again in the same
direction. Now you have the broad fold bandage.
➊ ➋
3. To make a narrow -fold bandage - fold again the broad-

fold bandage horizontally in half again to make a thick, but
long and narrow, bandage.
4. For storing of the traingular bandages start with a

narrowfold bandage bring the two ends of the bandage
into centre point. Keep folding the ends into the centre
until a convenient size is reached. Keep the bandage
in a dry place.
14
Chapter 6 - Dressing & Bandage Basic First Aid Techniques
Triangular Sling when using conforming and crepe bandages; they may
become tighter if the limb swells.
Supports the upper limb with the hand in a well-raised position.
It is used for some fracturies, to help control bleeding from Use of Roller bandages
wounds in the forearm, to reduce swelling in burn injuries, and
The four principle methods of applying the roller bandage are
for complicted rib fractures.
➊ ➋
1. The Simple Spiral 2. The Reverse Spiral
➊ ➋
3. The Figure of 8
➌ ➍ ➊ ➋
4. The spica.
Roller Bandage
General Rules of Bandaging
Roller bandage are made of cotton, gauze, or linen, and are
applied in spiral turns. It use in fingers 1 inch; head and arms, 1. Reassure the casulty and explain clearly what you are
2.5 inches legs, 3.5 inches, trunk 4 to 6 inches. going to do.
1. When the bandage is partly unrolled, the roll is called the 2. Make the casultay comfortable, in suitable position, sitting
head and the unrolled part, the tail. Keep the head of the or lying.
bandage uppermost when bandaging. 3. Keep the injured part supported.
2. Position yourself 4. If the casualty is laying down, pass the bandages under
towards the front of the the bodys natural hollows at the ankles, knees, wrist and
casulty at the injured side. neck.
Head 3. While working, 5. Apply bandages firmly but not so tightly as to impede
support the injured part in circulation to the extremity.
the position, it will remain
after bandaging. 6. Leave fingers and toes on a bandaged limb exposed, if
Tail
possible, so that you can check the circulation afterwards.
4. Check the
circulation byeond a 7. Use reef knots to the bandages. Avoid knots on
bandage especially
15 bony area no to cause discomfort.

Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 7 - Wounds & Bleeding
Chapter - 7
WOUNDS & BLEEDING
Any abnormal break in the skin or the body surfaces is known as wound.
Incised Wounds is under less pressure than arterial blood.
A clear cut from a sharp edge such as a razor, Capillary Bleeding

knife or broken glass. This type of bleeding or oozing, occurs at the site of all wounds.
External Bleeding
Lacerated Wounds
Bleeding occurs from the external parts of the body called
Crushing or ripping forcs (by machinery, claws external bleeding.
of animal birbed wire, etc ), result in rough
rears or lacerations.
Contusion (Bruise)
A blunt blow or puch ca rupture capillaries
beneath the skin.
Puncture Wounds
They are caused by sharp pointed instrument FOR EXTERNAL BLEEDING
such as aneedle knife, etc. As germs and dirt can
be carried far into the body.
Bleeding
Bleeding occurs from artery, vein and capillary when damaged
blood vessels release blood from a cut, wound, or an internal
haemorrage.
Arterial Bleeding
Richly oxygenated blood is bright red and under pressure from
the heart.
FOR EXTERNAL BLEEDING
Venous Bleeding
Venous blood, having given up its oxgen, is dark red. It
16
Chapter 7 - Wounds & Bleeding Basic First Aid Techniques
Management of Wounds and Bleeding

Aims are :
1. To control the bleeding
2. To prevent and minimise the effects
3. To arrange urgent removal of the casualty to hospital
4. Remove or cut clothing to expose the wound.
5. Apply direct pressure over the wound with your fingers
or palm, preferably over a sterile dressing clean pad Aims are :
until the bleeding has stopped - but do not waste time
● Keep the casulaty calm and relaxed. Do not allow
hunting for a dressing.
him/her to move. Loosen clothing at the neck, chest
6. Raise and support an injured limb above the level of the and waist.
casualtys heart.
● Do not give anything to eat to drink.
● If the casualty loses consciousness, place in
recovery position.
● Take the casualty to a hospital as quickly as possible.
Ear Bleeding
Bleeding that originates from
inside the ear generally follows
a rupture of the ear-drum.
If bleeding follows a head
injury, the blood may appear
thin and watery-which is
7. Lay the casualty down. This will reduce blood flow to the serious.
site of injury and minimise shock.
Aim are:
8. Cover any open wound with a sterile dressing to protect
● To allow blood to drain away
from infection and promote natural healing. Bandage firmly,
but not so tightly as to impede the circulation. ● To minimize risk of infection
● To arrange transport to hospital.
Internal Bleeding
Do Not Plug the ear
Bleeding within the body cavities may follow injury, such as a
fracture or penetrating wound Management
Signs and Symptoms 1. Help the casualty into a half sitting position, with the head
inclined to the injured side to let the blood drain.
● Pallor
2. Cover the ear with a sterile dressing or clean pad, lightly
● Cold, clammy skin
held in place.
● A rapid weak pulse Pain Thirst
3. Send or take the casualty to hospital.
Management
17
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 7 - Wounds & Bleeding
Nose Bleeding finger and thumb; press for ten minutes. Let any escaping
blood dribble, if swallowed, it may induce vomiting.
A nose bleed is bleeding
from one or both nostrils. It 3. Advise the casualty to avoid hot drinks for 12 hours.
can occur when when If the wound is large, or if bleeding persists beyond 30
blood vessels inside the minutes, or recurs seek medical advice.
nostrils are ruptured either
by a blow or an accident. Abdominal Injury
Aims are:
The severity of an abdominal wound may be evident in external
● To control blood bleeding and protruding abdominal contents.
loss Aims are :
● To maintain an open airway ● To minimise the risk of infection.
Do Not ley the casualtys head tilt back; blood may run ● To minimise shock
down with head held forward.
● To arrange urgent removal to hospital
Management:
1. Sit the casualty down with head hold forward.

2. Ask the casualty to breathe through mouth (will have a
calming effect), and to pinch flesh part of nose. Help if
necessary.
3. Tell the casualty to try not to speak, swallow, caugh, spit,
or sniff, as it may disturb blood clots.
4. After ten minutes tell the casualty to release the pressure.
If nose is still bleeding reaply the pressure for further
periods of ten minutes. If the nose bleed persists beyond
30.
Management
Bleeding from the mouth 1. Lay the casualty down on a firm surface. Loosen any tight
clothing.
Cuts to the tongue, lips, or lining of the mouth range from trivial
injuries to more serious wounds. 2. Put a large dressing over the wound and secure it lightly
in place with a bandage, or some adhesive tape. Add
Aim are :
another dressing or pad or top if blood seeps through the
● To control bleeding dressing.
● To safeguard the airway by preventing any If the casualty coughs or vomits pres firmly on the dressing
inhalation of blood. to prevent the contents of the abdomen from pushing
through the woulds and being exposed.
Do Not was the mouth out, as this may disturb clot.
If part of the intestine is protruding, do not touch it, cover
Management the wound with sterile dressing.
1. Sit the casualty down, with head forward and inclined 3. Treat the casualty for shock, it becomes unconscious,
towards the injured side, allow blood to drain. resuscitate if necessary. Put the casualty in recovery
position supporting the abdomen.
2. Place a gauze dressing pad over the wound. Ask
the casualty to squeeze the wound and pad between 18
Chapter 7 - Wounds & Bleeding Basic First Aid Techniques
Scalp and Head Injury leaks into the injured area. Secondly and more
dangerously, toxic substances will build up in damaged
The scalp has a rich
muscle tissue around a crush injury. If released suddenly
blood supply, and when
into circulation, these toxins may cause kidney failure.)
it is damaged, the skin
Aims are :
splits, producing a gaping
wound. ● To obtain specialist medical aid urgently and
Aims are : continue taking any steps possible to treat the
casualty.
● To c o n t r o l
blood loss
● To a r r a n g e
trasport to
hospital
STEP - 1
Management
1. Apply direct pressure over a sterile dressing or clean

pad.
2. Secure dressing with a roller bandage.Lay the casualty
down with head and shoulders slightly raised. If the
casualty becomes unconscious, carry out resuscitate
process, if needed. Place in recovery position.
STEP - 2 ● To determine the length of time the casualty has

been crushed before starting treatment.
3. Arrange to send the casualty to hospital
4. Suspect a fractured skull in any casualty who has Management
received a head injury resulting in unconsciousness. If
For casualty crushed less than 15 minutes
violent head movements have caused unconsciousness,
there may also be an associated neck injury. 1. Realease the casualty as quickly as possible.
Crush Injury 2. Control any external bleeding and cover any wounds.
Commonly caused by traffic accident, incidents of building 3. Secure and support any suspected fractures.
collapse, falling of trees, etc. 4. Examine and observe the casualty for signs of shock and
Prolonged crushing may cause extensive damage to treat accordingly.
tissue, especially to muscles. Once the pressure is Do Not release the casualty if crushed for more than 15
removed, shock may develop rapidly as tissue fluid minutes. Comfort and reassure the casualty until help
19 arrives.

Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 8 - Shock
Chapter - 8
SHOCK
Shock is a sudden depression in the vital function of the body, it is
associated changes in the circulatory system varying from temporary
weakness to complete failure.
Shock can be divided into two types - Aims are :

1. Nervous shock, 2. Circulatory or True shock ● To recgnise shock
Nervous shock, which is due to strong emitional upset. ● To teat any obvious cause.
Circulatory Shock, which may occur if the blood supply to ● To improve the blood supply to the brain, heart,
the bodys vital organs is reduced. and lungs
The body responds to fluid loss initially by diverting the blood ● To arrange removal to hospital
supply from the surface to vital organs. Shock develops if fluid
loss is not stopped. Management
Signs and Symptoms 1. Treat any cause of shock you identify (such as external
● A rapid pulse bleeding.)
● Pale, grey-blue skin, especially inside the lips.

● Sweating and cold, clammy skin.
As the shock develops, there may be:
● Weakness and giddiness
● Nausea, and possibly vomiting
● Thirst
● Rapid, shallow breathing 2. Lay the casualty down on a blanket to from the cold
As the brains oxygen supply weakness : ground, keeping the head low. Constantlyu reassure the
casualty.
● The casualty may become restless, anxious and
even aggressive 3. Raise and suport the legs of the casualty to improve the
blood supply to the vital organs. Take care if you suspect
● The casualty may yawn and gasp for air a fracture.
● The casualty will become unconscious 4. Loose tight clothings, belts, etc. to reduce
● Finally the heart will stop.
20 constriction at the neck, chest, and waist.

Chapter 8 - Shock Basic First Aid Techniques
5. Keep the casualty warm by covering with blankets. ● A rapid, weak or irregular pulse.
6. Check and record breathing, pulse, and level of response. ● Collapse, often without any warning.
Prepare to resuscitate if necessary.
Aims are :
● DO NOT let the casualty smoke, eat, drink, or move
● To minimise the work of the heat.
uncessarily. If the casualty complains of thirst,
moisture his/her lips with little water. ● To summon urgent medical help and arrange
removla to hospital.
● DO NOT try to warm casualty with hot-water bottle
or any other direct source of heat. Management
Circulatory Disorder ● Make the casualty comfortable as possible to ease

the strain on heart. A half sitting position, with hed
The heart and network of blood vessels, that are together known and shoulders well supported and knees bent, is
as the circulatory (or cardiovascular) system. often best. Call for medical help. Constantly monitor
If there is any disturbance in blood vessel or lack of oxygen to and record, the casualtys breathing and pulse rates
the blood causes loss of consciousness. This is called as and be prepare to resuscitate, if necessary.
circulatory disorder.
Causes of unconsciousness
● Head injuries
● Fainting
● Sun stroke and Heart Exhuastion
● Heart attack
● Hysteria Epilepsy
● Shock
General Management of unconsciousness
● Ensure supply of fresh air and that the air passages
are free.
● Loosen clothing at neck, chest and wrist.
● If breathing has stopped or is feeble, start artificial Heat Stroke
respiration at once.
Always people are facing heat stroke, sun stroke, heat
● Shift the casualty to Hospital. exhaustion due to excessive heat and the internal part
Heart Attack thermostat control and regulate the heat. The body becomes
dangerously over heated due to high fever or prolonged due
A heart attack most commonly occurs when the blood supply to to high fever or prolonged exposure to heat.
part of the heart muscle is suddenly obstructed
Signs and Symptoms
Sign and Symptoms
● Headache, dizziness and discomfort.
● Persistent, vice like central chest pain, spreading
● Restlessness and confusion
often to the jaw and down the left arm.
● Hot, flushed, and dry skin.
● Breathlessness, and discomfort high in the obdomen,
often feeling similar to servere indigestion. ● A rapid deterioration in the level of response.
● Sudden faintness or giddiness. ● Body temperature above 400
● A sense of impending doom. Aims are :
● Ashen skin, and blueness at the lips. ● To lower the casualtys body temperature as quickly
21 as possible.

Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 8 - Shock
● To arrange revoval of the casualty to the hospital

Management :
1. Move the casualty quickly to a cool shady place.
Remove as much outer clothing as possible.
STEP - 1
2. Wrap the casualty in cold wet sheet/towel and keep ● Hold smelling salt if available in front of nose latter.
it wet until temperature falls to 38 0 C. If no sheet is
available, constantly fan the casualty or sponge with ● If seen latter the casualty will have became
cold water. unconscious. Lay him down as described above.
3. If the casualtys response deteriorate, or he/she

becomes unconscious, open the airway and check
breathing. Prepare to resuscitate if necessary. Place
the casualty in recovery position.
Fainting
Fainting is very common, it is due to lack of circulation to the STEP - 2
brain. Fear of an operation etc. Fright, Sad news or acute pain
can cause the fainting. A sudden fall in the blood pressure also
can produce it. It may also develop slowly in a weak person of
people staying for a long period in hot or stuffy places as in
shelters or stuffy rooms.
Sign & Symptoms
● Giddiness, Face is pale, pulse is weak and slow,
breething becomes less deep than normal, skin is
● See that there is plenty of face air as the onlookers
cold and sticky.
to disperse.
Management
● Loose clothing at waist, chest and neck.
● The moment the person feel fainting get his head
● After recovery only slowly rise the head than make
down quickly, if sitting get the head between the
him get up and sit down.
knees and hold it there for a minute or two. It
may be necessary to lay him down with the ● Give sips of orange juice, tea, coffee even water.
head at a slightly lower level than the feet.
22
Chapter 9 - Fracture Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 9
Fracture
A fracture is a break or crack in a bone. Bones may be

broken (fracture), displaced at a joint (dislocated) or both.
The bones of the arms and legs are particularly vulnerable
to breakage.
received indirect force may be produced by a twist or a rench:

Types of fractures a trip or stumble can break a leg bone, for example.
● Simple fracture
Sign and Symptoms
This is a clean break or
crack in the bone, the skin ● Difficulty in moving a limb normally, or at all.
around a broken bone is ● Pain at or ner site of injury.
intact. There will often be
● Tenderness or discomfort on gentle pressure over
bruising and swelling
the affected area.
around the fracture
site.When the skin is intact ● Distoration, swelling and bruishing at the site of the
and there is no wound, it fracture.
also called closed fractures.
● Grating of the bone ends.
● Compound Fracture
Aims are :
The bone is exposed through
● To prevent blood loss in case of open (compound)
the tissues to contaimination by
fracture and infection at the site of injury.
bacteria from the skin surface
and from the air. ● To prevent movement at the injury site.
● To arrange removal to hospital, with comfortable
● Complicated Fracture
support during transport.
When there is associated injury to some important internal
● Do Not move the casualty until the injured part is
structure such as brain spinal cord, nerve, lung, liver,
secured as supported.
spleen, kidney, major blood vessel, or when a fracture at
a joint is associated with a dislocation. A complicated ● Do Not try to replace a disclosed bone into socket.
fracture may be either closed or open.
Management
1. Cover the wound with a clean pad or sterile
How fractures are caused dressing and apply pressure to control the bleeding.
Both direct and indirect force can cause bones to fracture.
A bone may break at the point, where a heavy blow is
23
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 9 - Fracture

Management
1. If unconscious, open the airway, check breathing
and resuscitate if necessary
2. Help a conscious casualty to lie down, with the head
and shoulders raised . If there is discharge from an
ear, position the casulty so that the affected ear is
lower.
2. Without touching an open wound with your fingers,

carefully place some slean padding over and
around the dressing.
3. Control any the bleeding and treat, other injuries.

4. Monitor and record breathing pulse and leavel of
response every minutes until help arrives.
If it is major facial fracture -
3. Secure the dressing and padding; bandage firmly, - keep the air way open.
but not so tightly that circulation is impended.
- arrange urgent removal to hospital
4. Immobilised the injured part as for a closed fracture.
Fracture to the Lower Jaw
Jaw fractures are usually the result of direct force, such as
heavy blow.
Signs and Symptoms
● Pain when moving the jaw.
● Distortion of the teeth and dribbing.
● Wound or brushing inside the mouth.
5. For firmer support, secure the injured part to a Aims are :

sound part of the body. Bandage from the uninjured ● To protect the air way.
side.
● To arrange removal to hospital.
Skull Fracture
Management
A skull fracture is dangerous as there may be
1. If seriously injured, treat as major facial fracture. If
brain damage; also germs that cause infection
not so seriously injured, help casulty to sit up with
can enter the brain.
head well forward, to allow any blood, mucus or
Aims are : saliva to drain away.
● To resuscitate if necessary 2. Give the casualty a soft pad to hold against jaw -
firmly in place to support the jaw.
● To maintain an open air way 24
Management
1. Reassure the casualty, and tell not to move, steady
➊ ➋ and support casultys head in the neutral position
by placing your hands over casualtys ears.
If neck injury is suspected, get a helper to place
rolled -up blankets or articles of clothing on either
side of the casualtys neck and shoulders. Continue
maintain support of the head and hold the head and
neck till ambulance arrives.
2. If breathing and circulation are absent till the head
back gently, ensuring that the head and neck stay
➌ in the neutral position.
4. If open airwa breathing has not teturned, position
the casualty using the log-roll technique, so that
you can resuscitate.
Do not bandage the pad in place.
Log-Roll Technique
3. Take or send the casulty to hospital keep the jaw
If you have to turn the casualty on to his back to resuscitate,
supported.
you should keep his/her head, trunk, and toes in a straight line
Spine Injury at all times during the manoeuvre. While you maintain support
at the neck, ask helpers to gently straighten the casualtys limbs,
The danger of any spinal injury is that the spinal cord may be
and log-roll him over on to his back.
affected. The spinal cord is delicate and if damaged, loss of
power or sensation can occur in parts of body below the injured ● Give plenty of support at spine
area either temporaily or permanently.
Some Causes
● Falling from a height.
● Head on crash.
● A heavy object falling across the back.
Signs and Symptoms
When only the bones of the spinal column are damaged,
there may be :
● Pain in the neck or the back at the level of injury.
● Tenderness on gently feeling the spine.
● Loss of control over limbs : movement may be weak
or absent.
● Loss of sensation or abnormal sensations (burning,
tingling; stiff or heavy feel of limbs). ● Support head continuously
● Breathing difficulties. ● Hold hip, tigh, and call to steady leg.
Aims are : Fractures of the Rib cage
● To prevent further damage to the spine or spine
Ribs may be fractured by direct force to the chest from a blow
cord.
or a fall, or by indirect force producd in a crush injury. The rib
● To resucitate he casuality if necessary. fracture is complicated by a penetrating wound, breathing
may be seriously impaired.
● To maintain an open air way.
● To arrange urgent removel to hospital.
25
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 9 - Fracture
Signs and Symptoms an elevation sling.

Depending on severity,
3. Secure the arm to the chest with a broad-fold
there may be :
bandage tied around the chest and over the sling.
● Sharp pain at the site of the
4. Take or send the casulty to hospital, keeping the
fracture.
casulty seated.
● Pain on taking a deep
breath. Pelvis Fracture
● Sallow breathing. Injuries to the pelvis are usually caused by indirect force. Pelvic
injuries may be complicated by injury to internal tissues and
Aims are : organs, such as the bladder and urinary passages, which the
● To support the chest wall. pelvis protects. Internal bleeding associated with the fracture
may be severe, and shock often develops.
● To arrange removal to hospital
Signs and Symptoms
Management
There may be :
1. Immediately cover and seal any wounds to the chest
support the limb on injured side in an arm by ● Inability to walk or even stand.
elevation sling. ● Pain and tenderness in the region of hip.
2. Place the casulty in the most comfortable position, ● Blood at the urinary orifice - Difficult or painful to
which, may be half-sitting,with head, shoulders, and pass urine.
body turned towards the injured side.
● Signs of shock and internal bleeding.
If the casulty becomes unconscious, or breathing
becomes difficult or noisy, place the casulty in Aims is :
recovery position uninjured side upper most. ● To arrange urgent removal to hospital.
Collar - Bone Fracture Do not bandage the legs together if this causes intolerable
pain.
The Collar bones (Calvicles) form struts between the shoulder
blades and the breastbone, to support the arms. It is rare for
collar bones to be broken by direct blow. They are usually
broken by indirect force, transmitted from impact at the shoulder
or a fall on to an outstretched hand.
Signs and Sympotms
There may be :
● Pain and tendernes at the site of the injury increased Management
by movement. 1. Help the casualty to lie on back either with legs
Aims are : straight.
● To immobilise the upper 2. Immobilise the legs of the casualty by bandaging

limb (shoulder girdle and arm) them together, placing padding between the bony
points.
● To arrange removal to
hospital. Thigh Bone Fracture
Management This is a serious injury because, in most cases, a large volume
of blood is lost into the tissues, which may cause shock to
1. Sit the casualty down.
develop.
Place the arm on injured side
across casualtys chest, and arm Signs and Symptoms
to support it at the elbow. There may be :
Put some soft padding
between arm and body. ● Pain at the site of the injury.
2. Support the arm in
26 ● Inability to walk.
● Signs of shock.
● Shortening of the thigh.
Aims are
● To immobilize the lower limb. ➊
Do Not give casualty anything to eat or drink.
Management
1. Lay the casualty down gently.
2. Gently straighten the lower leg.
3. Take any steps possible to treat the casualty for
shock, but do not raise hte legs of the casualty. ➋
4. Immobilze the limb by securing or splinting it to the
uninjured limb.
Pad between the legs and the body. Secure the splint
into the pelvis with broad-fold bandages at the chest (i)
pelvis (2) ankles (3) knees (4) above and below the
fracture site (5 and 6) and an extra point for support.
Do not bandage over the fracture. Move casualty on to
the stretcher using the log-roll technique while carrying
the stretcher, raise the feet to reduce swelling and shock. E Elevate the injured part.
Management
Sprains 1. Wrap the ankle in a thick layer of padding and
bundage firmly.
Usually casued by a wrench, sprain can be treated by the
RICE procedure. 2. Raise and support the injured limb to reduce
swelling.
Signs and Symptoms
3. Advise the casualty to rest the ankle, and to see a
● Pain increased either by movement or by putting doctor if pain persists.
weight on the foot.
● Do Not give the patient anything by mouth - in
● Swelling. case an anaesthetic has to be given, when
● To relieve pain and swelling. the bone is set.
● To seek medical aid if necessary. ● Do Not sit the patient upright especially in case
of a spinal injury.
The RICE Procedure
R Rest the injured part.
I Apply ice or a cold compress.
C Compress the injury 27
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 10 - Burns & Scalds
Chapter - 10
Burn and Scalds
In our region burns usually result from dry heat (fire) and scalds
are caused by wet heat such as boiling water, oil, etc. Cases
of burns could be complicated by the presence of fire,
electricity, smoke or other hazards.
Depth of Burns rawness and blisters, needs medical treatment. Such burns can
heal well, but if they affect very large areas (ie over 60%) of
There are three types of burn injury : superficial (1st degree),
the body, they can be fatal.
partial-thickness, (2nd degree) and (3rd degree) full
thickness. A casualty may suffer one or more depths of burn
Full-thickness burn (3rd Degree)
in an incident.
With this type of burn, all
Superficial burn the layers of the skin are
(1st Degree) burned and there maybe
some damage to nervas, fat
This involves only tissue, and muscles. The skin
the outermost layer of m a y l o o k w a x y, p a l e , o r
skin and is characterised charred. Urgent medical
by redness, swelling, and attention is always essential
tenderness. for these burns.
It usually heals well
if first aid is given promptly Miner Burns and Scalds
and should not require
Aims are :
medical attention unless it
● To stop burning
is extensive.
● To releave pain and swelling.
Partical-thicknes ● To minimise the risk of infection.
burn (2nd Degree) Management
Burn affecting layers of the peidermis, giving rise to 1. Flood the injured part with cold water for at least
28 ten minutes to stop the burning and relieve pain.
Chapter 10 - Burns & Scalds Basic First Aid Techniques
Severe Burns and Scalds

Great care must be taken when treating burns that are deep or
extend over a large area. Injury becomes more severe with
larger burning. If the casualty has been burned in fire, it should
be assumed that smoke or hot air has also affected the respiratory
system.
Aims are :
● To stop burning and relieve pain.
● To maintain an open air way and resuscitate, if

necessary.
● To treat associated injuries.
● To minimise the risk of infection.
● To arrange removal to hospital

2. Gently remove any jewellery, watches, belts, or
constricting clothing from the injured area before it Do Not overcool the casualty as it carries the risk of
begins to swell. lowering the body temperature to a dangerous level
(hypothermia) if the burns cover a large part of the body.
Do Not remove anything sticking to the burn; you may

cause further damage and introduce infection into the wound.
Management
1. Lay the casualty down protect the burned area from

contact with the ground, if possible.
2. Douse the burn with plenty of cold water for at least

10 minutes. Do not however, delay the casualtys
3. Cover the area with a sterile dressing, or any clean,

nonfluffy material, and bandage loosely in place.
● Do Not break blisters or otherwise interfere

with the injured area
● Do Not apply adhesive dressing or adhesive

tape to the skin.
● Do not apply lotions, ointments, or fats to

the injury; they can further damage the
tissues and increase the risk of infection. 29
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 10 - Burns & Scalds
3. While colling the burn, watch for signs of difficulty in Burns may be caused by a lightning strike or by low or
breathing, and the ready to resusciate if necessary. high voltage current. A electric shock can cause cradiac arrest.
If the casulty is unconscious, priority is resuscitation, once you
4. Gently remove any rings, watches, belts, shoes, or
are sure it is safe.
smouldering clothing from the injured area, before
it begins to swell. Do Not touch the casulty if in contact with the electrical
current, you may risk electroction.
5. Cover the injury with a sterile dressing to protect if
from germs and infection. Do Not use anything metallic to push away the electrical
source.
6. Till getting medical help reassure the casualty and
treat for shock, monitor and record breathing and Aims are :
pulse rates; resuscitate if necessary.
● To treat the burns and shock
● Do Not touch or otherwise interfere with the
● To arrange removal of the casualty to hospital.
injured area.
● Make sure that contact with the electrical sources is
● Do Not brust any blisters.
broken.
● Do Not apply lotions, ointment, fat or adhesive
Management
tape to the injury.
1. If the casulty is unconscious, open the airway and
Electrical Burns check breathing : be prepared to resuscitate if
necessary.
Burns may occur when electricity passes through the body.
Much of the visible damage occurs at the points of entry and
exist of the current Howver, there may also tbe track of internal
damage which may be indicated by - wounds at the entry and
exist point.
2. Flood the injury with plently of cold water place a

sterile dressing as in case of burn. Arrange to
30
Chapter 11 - Poisoning Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 11
Poisoning
A poison is a substance which, if taken into the body in sufficient
quantity, may cause temporary or permanent damage.
Poisoining is often damage. Poisoning is often accidental, it
can also be deliberate for example, in cases of attempted
suicide.
Once in the body, poisons may work their way into the Sign and Symptoms
bloodstream and be swiftly carried to all the tissues of the body.
There may be :
Although poisoning can be fatal, most cases are treatble. Here
we will discuss about some cases of acute poisoning which as ● Nausea and vomiting
First Aiders we may encounter as an amergency in our region. ● Cramping abdominal pains.
Diarrhoea (possibly bloodstained)
First - Aid Priorities ●
● Headache or fever
l Open on unconscious casualtys airway and monitor
airway, breathing, and circulation. ● Feataures of shock
l Prevent further injury in case of swallowed poisons ● Collapse

do not attempt to induce vomiting. Management
Management (Swallowed Poision) 1. Help in casualty to lie down and rest.
1. Check and, if necessary clear the casualtys airway 2. Arrange for modeical attendance.
Resuscitate if necessary for mouth ventilation in a 3. Encourage the casualty to rest - give plenty to drink
poison case use a plastic face shilled. such as water, or weak tea. Give a bowl in case the
Place casualty in recovery position. casualty vomits.
2. Arrange to send the casualty to hospital or seek

medical help. If a conscious casultys lips are burned
by corrosive substanes, give frequent sips of cold
water or milk.
Food Poisoning
This may be caused by eating food that is contaminated
by bacteria or by toxins poriduced by bacteria that were
already in the food. 31
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 11 - Poisoning
2. Wash the wound thoroughly with plenty of soap and

water.
3. Obtain medical aid or send the casualty to hospital.
Snake Bite
Reassurance in vital. Because if the casualty keps still and
calm, the spread of vaenom may bedelayed. Most people die
not because of the venom, but from fear. However, all snake
4. In case of casualty has taken corrosive poison, bite causes ar to be treated as if bitten by poisonsous ones.
give plenty of water or coconut water, Dont vomit.
If possible, put the snake in a secure container or make
note of the snakes appearance, this may help the correct
Some common poisons and First Aid for antivenom to be given to the casualty. Note that the venom in
them - active whether the snake is dead or alive.
1. Rat Poison, Match heads - Induce vomitting, give Aims are :
plenty of water or smooth drinks.
● To reassure the casualty
2. Aspirin, Sleeping tablet - Induce vomitting, give
● To prevent the spread of venom through the bloods.
strong coffee or tea.
● To arrange urgent removal of the casualty to the
3. Petrol, Kerosene, paraffin - Induce vomitting, give
hospital.
large quantity of water or coconut water.
4. Acid (strong) - Must not be made to vomit, give
plenty of water or coconut water.
Bites
Dog Bite
Dog bites are sometimes very serious. If the animal is suffering
from rabies; it will be transmitted to the person. The condition is
known as Hydrophobia. The dog should not be killed. It must
Management
1. Lay the casualty down. Calm and reassure the
be chained and must be kept under observation for ten days. casualty never make the casualty walk nor sleep.
Rabies also caused by infected cats, monkey and jackels. 2. If the bite is on the arm or leg, apply a constrictive
Management bandage above the site of bite, tight enough to
obstruct and stop the flow of venom to all parts of
● To control bleeding. the body.
● To prevent rabies and other infection. 3. Wash the wound with soap and water. Flush the
● To get medical aid. wound with lot of water.
REMEMBER all dog bites must be treated as 4. Cover the wound with a sterilised dressing.
potentially bite by a rabid dog. 5. Should breathing fail, commence artificial respiration
1. Wipe the saliva away from the wound.
32 6. Arrange for medical aid as quickly as possible.
Chapter 12 - Handling & Transportation of Pregnant Woman Basic First Aid Techniques
Chapter - 12
Handling & Transportation of Pregnant Woman
In situations like emergency child birth you may have

to administer first-aid to a peregnant women.
Taking care of the pregnant at the time of disaster is very nearby during disaster, while removing the patient the care
important factor. If proper care is not taken at right time then the must be taken in the following aspects -
situation may be dangerous, therefore just getting the information
1. The patient lie comfortably and give adequate protection
about disaster, the TF (Task Force) and TBA (Traditional Birth
with sanitary pad, soak up the bleeding if any.
Attendent) must kept themselves ready.
2. Keep all their pad inside or any product expelled to shown
For the disaster risk reduction the TF and TBA must register
to the doctor.
all the pregnant women under the list of vulnerable people
before disaster in order to give priority for the evacuation. The 3. Take the patient in comfortable position make sure that for
TF must make appropriate arrangement at the cyclone shelter back and shoulders are well supported.
site and inform the trained TBA to get ready, the TF must seek
4. Always reassure the pregnant woman.
at of the trained TBA in order removal of the patient to safety to
nearby hospital or in a safety place. If hospital is not available 5. To obtain medical aid and arrange removal to hospital.
33
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 13 - General Diseases
Chapter - 13
General Diseases
Diarrhoea Management
The causes of vomiting and diarrhoea are most likely to be food 1. Give the casualty O.R.S. to counter dehydration.
poisoning and consumption of contaminated water. Vomiting may
occur without diarrohea and diarrohea without vomiting when 2. Give the casualty lot of green coconut water; Barley
both occur together, there is an increased risk of dehyration, water and rice wter with 5% glucose to sip slowly
which can be serious. and often.
Sign and Symptoms

● Evacuation of watery or unformed stools.
● Pain in abdomenand in some cases vomiting.
● Fever or headach in severe cases.
● Occasionally slimy and bloody evacuation.
● Signs of dehdration may include dry lip and tounge,
loss of elasticity of skins.
3. If the condition persists call for a doctor as soon as

possible or send to hospital
4. If Oral Rehydration solution (ORS) is not available
salt and sugar solution can be prepared at home.
Mix 8 tea spoonfull of sugar (40gm.) and half tea
spoonful of common salt (5gm) in a litre of water
(Tubwell or boil and colled) and use as ORS.
5. Do not give soft drinks, sweet and fruit juice and
sweet tea.
Aims is : Pneumonia
● To restore the lsot fluids and salts. Although majority of the cough and cold problems are self
● Rest the casualty on bed. Maintain body limiting, in some cases particularly in small children, the
warmth with blankets, and hot water bottels in problem of cough and cold gets worse leading to life
exreme cases. 34 threatening condition called pneumonia.

Chapter 13 - General Diseases Basic First Aid Techniques
Sings and Symptoms ● Headache, aching of limbs and shivering may be

present is some cases.
Follwing a speel of cough and cold :
Aims are :
● Irregualr rise in temperature.
● Keep the body cool in case of high temperture.
● Fast breathing
● Check for malaria.
● Inability eat and drink, excessive drowsiness.
Management
● Noisy breathing
1. In fever the casualty looses lots of water, give
● Hypothermia (low body temperature of a sick child)
sufficient water to drink.
● Convulsion (fits in a child with cough and cold).
2. In some casesof high temperature cool the casualty
Aims are : down with sponging with cold water. Remove
● Provide well cushioned and ventilated rest to the excess clothing and keep the room well ventilted.
caualty.
Malaria
● Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Malaria is caused by mosquitoes bite. Malaria is transmitted to
● Give plenty of liquied to drink.
a human by the bite of an infected female anopheles Mosquito.
● While resting keep cushion behind to make the
Signs and Symptoms
casualty comfortable and make breathing easier.
Keep casualty warm. ● High fever (more than 103 0 F) accompanied with
headache, shivering; sometimes vomiting and
Management
anorexia.
1. Keep in room well ventilated away from all kind of
● Fast pulse and sweating in post
smoke.
Aims :
2. If a child, clean nose - blocked nose makes breast
feeding difficult. ● Arrange for antimalarial medicine.
3. Seek doctors attention as soon as possible. ● Keep the body cool and seek doctors attention.
Remember : Pneumonia can kill. A child with Pneumonia ● Cover the patient is case of fever and use Mosquito
needs urgent medical treatment. Net.
Common Fever
Fever is most common illness. Prolonged high temperature Skin Disease
could be very uncomfortable and lead to serious condition.
Just after disaster skin diseases are found which is major
Signs and Symptoms skin diseases. The skin disease is a epidemic disease, if
Raised body temperature and quickened proper treatment is not given it may aggravate. So before
●
pulse.
35 aggravation of the skin disease consult with a doctor.

Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 14 - Water & Sanitation
Chapter - 14
Water and Sanitation
Sanitation :
Sanitation is about being clean. Important parts of sanitation
are - water sanitation and disposal of human excreta in safe
way. Sanitation is essential for preventing diarroheal for
preventing diarroheal diseases. Use of safe drinking water from
deep tubewells, boiled or treated and use of proper sanitation
practices in day to day life is very important to prevent varities
of diseases and illness.
During disaster period (Cyclone, Flood) it even becomes
more important to prevent diarroheal epidemic.
● During an post disaster period advise people to

use properly stored safe drinking water.
● Disinfected water/safe water for drinking brushing
teeth and feeding domestic animals.
● Do not use siscoloured water, water from sources
which were submerged; having floating materials
and odour.
Management
● During preparation for risk reduction make the
community members aware regarding the use of
safe drinking water and latrines as well as how to
take care of the water sources and storage of
water af family and shelter centre level. Also
demonstrate them to make and use sanitar
latrines.
36
Chapter 14 - Water & Sanitation Basic First Aid Techniques
● In case of suberged tubwell pump for 30 minutes ● Wash hands wit soap.
before using water.
● Use proper sanitary practices.
How to purify water

Traditional
Mix powder of one crushed drumstick seed in small amount of
water, stir and add the solution to one litre of turbid water; stir
for 12 minutes, let it stand for one hour, transfere the clear
water to another container.
Chemical Method
● Use latrine Mix 6 gramsof 65% Calcium hydrochoride with four litres of
water to get 5.25% bleach solution. Add 4 drops of this solution
● If do not have latrine or latrine is damaged use cat
to 1 liter of turbid water. Stir well and let it stand for 30 minutes
method (cover excreta with soil) trench latrine.
before drinking.
● Avoid open defecation, do not defecate near to water

sources. Chlorine or iodine tablet : Dissolve and mix one
tablet with 4 litre of water . Let it stand then use it.
37
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 15 - Handling & Transport of Casualty
Chapter - 15
Handling and Transport of Casualties
When moving a casualty, it is important to be aware of the
dangers to yourself and to the casualty. Incorrect handling and
transport methods could aggravate the casualtys condition. You
should not move a casualty unless you have received
comprehensive training, or the casualty is in imminent danger
and it is safe for you to approach him or her.
Method of Carrying
Human Crutch
Cradle Mehod
38
Chapter 15 - Handling & Transport of Casualty Basic First Aid Techniques
Firemans Lift and Carry 4-Handed Sheet
3-Handed Sheet The Fore and AFT
39
Basic First Aid Techniques Chapter 15 - Handling & Transport of Casualty
Stretcher used, clothing, hay or straw should beplaced on it and

covered with a piece of stout cloth or sacking which is
Stretcher Exercise for 4-bearers useful for taking the casualty off the stretcher. Always test
1. 4-bearers will be selected and numbered 1,2,3,4 from an improvised stretecher before use.
latest to shortest in order to give as even a carry as
possible, they will take up the position in shown figure.
2. Collection of Blankets and stretcher
No.1 will give the command, no.3 collects the blankets,
no.4 collects the stretcher - right turn - quick march. The
STEP - 1
name bearers will collect the blankets and stretcher. no.3
will fold the blankets neetly and carry them over his right
STEP - 1
STEP - 2
STEP - 2
STEP - 3
arm and no.4 will carry the stretcher at the slope on the
right shoulder, runners to the front. On their return no.3
will resume his position behind no.1 and no.4 will slide
the stretcher foot fast between no.1 and no.2, runners to
the right and resume his position behind no.2
3. Lifting stretcher - On the command - lift stretcher no.2
and no.4 stoop together, grasp the handles of the stretcher
with their right hands, knuckles to the right and rise
together.
STEP - 4
A hurdle, broad peice of wood, door or shutter may be
40
Cover Back Inner
First Aid Kit

A first aid kit should include the following
items and should be inspected regularly
for expired medicines and replaced
accordingly.
Roller Bandages of different width. ● Triangular bandage
Sterile adhesive bandages ● Sterile gauze pads of various
sizes ● Sterile Cotton ● Adhesive tape ● Rubber tourniquet
● Anti bacterial drugs ● Burn ointment ● Antiseptic Lotion
and spirit ● Tincture iodine ● Gentian Violet lotion and spirit

● Oral Reydratants ● Water purification Tablet ● Blankets
Tweezers ● Disopable or surgical Gloves ● Disinfectant

soap ● Scissors ● Blades and safety pins ● Pen ● Note
Book ● Torch light ● Stretcher Tarpaulin.

Basic First Aid Techniques Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid
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Basic Concept and Principles of First Aid Basic First Aid Techniques

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

Chapter 1 - Basic Concept and Principle of First Aid 1-3

Chapter 2 - Structure and Function of Human Body 4-5

Chapter 3 - Suffocation and Artificial Respiration 6-8

Chapter 4 - Drowning 9-10

Chapter 5 - Chocking 11-12

Chapter 6 - Dressing & Bandage 13-15

Chapter 7 - Wounds & Bleeding 16-19

Chapter 8 - Shock 20-22

Chapter 9 - Fracture 23-27

Chapter 10 - Burn & Scald 28-30

Chapter 11 - Poisoning 31-32

Chapter 12 - Emergency Child Birth 33

Chapter 13 - General Diseases 34-35

Chapter 14 - Water & Sanitation 36-37

Chapter 15 - Handling & Transport of Casualty 38-40

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

People are facing many problems when disaster comes or great

Aim of the First Aid The Scope of First Aid

2. To prevent the condition worsening History

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

Don ts You may see these signs

1. Ball-and socket joints

3. Slightly movable joints

Immovable Joint Pulse

6. Chest wall sucking in as the casualty breaths in.

C irculation - the blood must travel to each cells of the body.

Mouth to-mouth Ventilation

2. Close the casualtys nose by pinching it with your index

Opening the Airway

blocked. This makes breathing difficult and noisy, or completely

4. Adult - Give two effective rescue breathing, aiming at

5. Child - Give five effective rescue breathing, aiming at

For Adult For Child (1-7)

impossible. Careful, there might be head or neck injuries. lift

14. If breathing returns, place the casualty in the recovery

For Adult For Child (1-7)

11. Press down vertically on the breastbone and depress the

12. Adult - (a) Complete 15 chest compressions, aiming for

(b) Continue alternating 15 chest compression with two

13. Child - (a) Give 5 chest compressions, aiming for about

15. Babies under 1yr. - 1 to 7 5 (with 1 hand) 1 (on mouth only)

● To get air into the casualtys lungs as first as possible

● To keep casualty warm.

● To arrange removal to hospital.

● In carrying the casualty from water to safety keep

6. Treat for collapse condition

4. If resuscitating. beware that water, give the occasional

Give the First Aid and Check Breathing

Give artificial Open airway, place in recovery

Check Blood circulation

Give artificial respiration with

Send to the Hospital

Choking is most common with children. A marble, a weed or a Management

2. If the casualty seems to be weakening, or stops

ORISSA DISASTER MITIGATION PROGRAMME- ODMP II

Repeat step 2 and For the Unconcious Choking Casualty -

Dressing Gauze Dressing

Don ts You may see these signs

2. Close the casualtys nose by pinching it with your index

● To get air into the casualtys lungs as first as possible

3. If the casualtys response deteriorate, or he/she

Firemans Lift and Carry 4-Handed Sheet