Jade Ellene R.

Buenavista
*What is First Aid?
 First aid refers to the actions taken in response to someone who is injured or has suddenly become ill.
One of the primary rules of first aid is to ensure that an area is safe for you before you approach a
casualty.
 First aid is any care given to an injured or ill person (called a 'casualty') before professional medical
assistance (ambulance, paramedics, nurse, or doctor) arrives on the scene to take control of the
situation.
 First aid is the initial assistance or treatment given to a person who is injured or suddenly becomes ill.
The person who provides this help may be a first aider, a first responder, a policeman or fireman, or a
paramedic or EMT.
What are the reasons for FA?
 It does more than help save lives . It’s true that having first aid training undoubtedly helps save lives. That’s
not all though; giving appropriate first aid immediately can help to reduce a person’s recovery time and
make the difference between the patient having a temporary or long-term disability. You’ll learn how to
remain calm in emergency situations and you’ll learn simple acronyms to help you recall the steps you need
to take. First aid training will make you confident and comfortable and therefore more effective and in control
when you need to be.
 It enables you to increase patient comfort. Not all accidents, injuries or illnesses require a trip to the hospital
but it doesn’t mean they don’t cause pain and suffering to the patient. A child crying because of a bruised
elbow or with a fever is in pain and is suffering. By knowing how to act – even just by employing simple
techniques such as applying an ice pack correctly, or utilizing appropriate bandaging, you’ll help to relieve
their discomfort. You’ll also provide emotional support by remaining calm and collected which will make
them feel more secure and reduce their anxiety levels.
 It gives you tools to prevent the situation from becoming worse. In some situations, if a patient doesn’t
receive basic first aid care immediately their situation will deteriorate – often rapidly. By being able to
provide basic care you can stabilize a patient until emergency medical services arrive. You’ll learn how to
use basic household items as tools if a first aid kit is not available meaning that you’ll be able to cope with
many situations. You’ll also be trained in how to collect information and data about what happened and the
patients’ condition. This information will be passed on to the emergency services, which saves them time –
you will be a valuable link in the chain of survival.
 It creates the confidence to care. Having a basic first aid knowledge means that you’ll be confident in your
skills and abilities in relation to first aid administration. By taking first aid training, it helps you to reflect on
yourself and how you and others react in certain situations. Having this understanding will boost your
confidence in a wide range of non-medical day to day situations.
 It encourages healthy and safe living. One of the first things you will learn during your first aid training is that
you must look after yourself and ensure your own safety as a priority. It’s not being selfish, it’s being
practical. Keeping yourself safe means, you are in a position to help others rather than needing help
yourself. You will also learn about the importance of healthy living and how lifestyle habits and choices can
increase or decrease your risks of developing problems such as coronary heart disease. Having this
knowledge makes you more aware of your own health and alert to potential hazards posed by your
surroundings.
What is the value of FA and training?
 Knowledge of first aid promotes a healthy, secure and a safer environment, and instills confidence amongst
people, their families, their colleagues and associates. Basic first aid knowledge is very helpful in dealing
with trauma situations. Being trained to provide first aid is useful to oneself and society.
 By taking first aid training, it helps you to reflect on yourself and how you and others react in certain
situations. Having this understanding will boost your confidence in a wide range of non-medical day to day
situations. It encourages healthy and safe living.
* What are wounds?
Wounds can be classified into a number of different types, depending on the object that produces the wound—such
as a knife or a bullet—and the manner in which the wound has been inflicted. Each of these types of wounds carries
specific risks associated with surrounding tissue damage and infection.
What are the classifications of wounds and the types of wounds?
TYPES OF WOUND

 Simple laceration This is caused by a clean surface cut from a sharp-edged object such as a razor. Blood
vessels are cut straight across, so bleeding may be profuse. Structures such as tendons or nerves may be
damaged.
 Complex Laceration Blunt or ripping forces result in tears or lacerations. These wounds may bleed less than
clean surface cuts, but there may be deep tissue damage. These lacerations are often contaminated with
germs, so the risk of infection is high.
 Puncture wound an injury such as standing on a nail or being pricked by a needle will result in a puncture
wound. It has a small entry site but a deep track of internal damage. Since germs and dirt can be carried far
into the body, the infection risk with this kind of wound is high.
 Abrasion (scrape) This is a superficial wound in which the topmost layers of skin are scraped off, leaving a
raw, tender area. Abrasions are often caused by a sliding fall or a friction burn. They can contain embedded
foreign particles that may cause infection.
 Stab wound This is a deep incision caused by a long or bladed instrument, usually a knife, penetrating the
body. Stab wounds to the trunk must always be treated as serious because of the danger of injury to vital
organs and life-threatening internal bleeding.
 Contusion (bruise) A blunt blow can rupture capillaries beneath the skin, causing blood to leak into the
tissues. This process results in bruising. Extensive contusion and swelling may indicate deeper damage,
such as a fracture or an internal injury.
 Gunshot wound This type of wound is caused by a bullet or missile being driven into the body, causing
serious internal injury as well as infection caused by clothing and contaminants from the air being sucked
into the wound. It is important to note the number of wounds.
What is direct pressure and how is it applied?
Direct Pressure
 Placing pressure on the wound will constrict the blood vessels manually, helping to stem any blood flow.
Keeping the wound above the level of the heart will decrease the pressure at the site of the wound and
therefore reduce bleeding (this applies mainly to limbs and head, however if a fracture (break) was
suspected in a limb it should not be moved. 
 Application of Direct Pressure
 Wear disposable gloves if available.
 Place a thick, clean compress (consisting of gauze or soft clean cloth) directly over the wound. The
compress will absorb blood and help the clotting process.
 Apply pressure to the victim's wound by placing your palm directly over the compress and pressing
firmly.
 If blood soaks through, do not remove the compress. Instead, add more cloth pads over it as
needed. Removing the compress may reopen the wound and result in further bleeding.

What is the FA for open wounds?

 Cover the wound with a sterile dressing or large clean, nonstick pad, and bandage it in place.
 Raise and support the injured part with a sling and/or bandage. This helps reduce the swelling around the
injury.
 Advise the casualty to seek medical advice. If infection is advanced (with signs of fever, such as sweating,
shivering, and lethargy), take or send the casualty to the hospital.
What are the characteristics and causes of closed wounds?
 The simplest closed wound is a bruise, also called a contusion (Figure 10-1). Bruises result when
the body is subjected to a blunt force, such as when you bump your leg on a table or chair. This
bump or blow results in damage to soft tissue layers and vessels beneath the skin, causing internal
bleeding. When blood and other fluids seep into the surrounding tissues, the area discolors and
swells. The amount of discoloration and swelling varies depending on the severity of the injury. At
first, the area may only appear red. Over time, more blood and other fluids leak into the area,
causing the area to turn dark red or purple. A significant violent force can cause injuries involving
larger blood vessels, deeper layers of muscle tissue and internal organs. These injuries can result
in severe bleeding beneath the skin that may become life threatening.
*What are the symptoms of eye injuries?
 Injuries to the eye can involve the bone and soft tissue surrounding the eye or the eyeball. Blunt
objects, such as a fist or a baseball, may injure the eye area, or a smaller object may penetrate the
eyeball. Injuries that penetrate the eyeball are very serious and can cause blindness. Foreign
bodies, such as dirt, sand, or slivers of wood or metal that get in the eye are irritating and can
cause significant damage. The eye immediately produces tears in an attempt to flush out such
objects. Pain from the irritation is often severe. The person may have difficulty opening the eye
because light further irritates it.
What are the precautionary measures to observe in administering FA for eye injuries?
■ Place the person in a face-up position and enlist someone to help stabilize the person’s head.
■ Do not attempt to remove any object embedded in the eye.
■ Stabilize the object by encircling the eye with a gauze dressing or soft sterile cloth, being careful
not to apply any pressure to the area.
■ Position bulky dressings, such as roller gauze, around the impaled object and then cover it with
a shield such as a paper cup. Do not use Styrofoam®-type materials, as small particles can break
off and get into the eye.
 ■ The shield should not touch the object. Bandage the shield and dressing in place with a self-
adhering bandage and roller bandage covering the person’s injured eye, as well as the uninjured
eye, to keep the object stable and minimize movement.
■ Comfort and reassure the person. Do not leave the person unattended.
* What are head injuries?
 Head injuries are common. They are potentially serious because they can lead to damage to the
brain. There may also be injuries to the spine in the neck, scalp wounds and/or a skull fracture. If a
casualty has sustained a minor injury such as a bruise or scalp wound, he is likely to be fully
conscious. If he has suffered a more serious blow to the head, such as in a sporting impact,
consciousness may be temporarily impaired. The brain lies inside the skull, cushioned by fluid and
can therefore be shaken by a blow to the head. This is called concussion and it often produces a
temporary loss of consciousness. Complications from concussion may affect thinking, language, or
emotions, and may lead to problems with communication and memory, and cause personality
changes, depression, and early-onset dementia. If a casualty has suffered a severe blow to his
head, this may cause bleeding or swelling inside the skull that can press on the brain
(compression). This is a serious condition. The pressure can rise immediately after the impact or it
may develop a few hours or even days later. The severity of the head injury is related to the
mechanism of injury and its impact on the head. A serious head injury is likely after a high-speed
motor collision or a fall from a height.
What are the manifestations of brain injury?
The brain can be literally “shaken” inside the skull with concussion (below). Injury that results in bleeding
can cause pressure to build up inside the skull and damage the tissues of the brain (below right).
What is the FA, for suspected brain injury?
 Sit the casualty down and give him a cold compress to hold against the injury. Carry out an
assessment of the casualty’s level of consciousness using the AVPU scale (opposite). Treat any
scalp wounds by applying direct pressure to the wound (p.122).
 Regularly monitor and record vital signs—breathing, pulse and level of response (pp.52–53).
Watch especially for changes in his level of response.
 When the casualty has recovered, ask a responsible person to look after him.
 If a casualty’s injury is the result of a sporting accident, do not allow him to return to the sport until
he has been fully assessed by a medical practitioner.
 Advise the casualty to seek medical help or arrange transportation to a hospital if he develops
signs and symptoms of a worsening head injury (see CAUTION, opposite, and YOUR AIMS,
above), or if ANY of the following apply: He is over 65 years of age He has had previous brain
surgery He is taking anticoagulant (anticlotting) medication The head injury is accompanied by
drug or alcohol intoxicant
*What are ear injuries?
 External injuries to the ear are common. Open wounds, such as lacerations or abrasions, can result from
recreational injuries, such as being struck by a racquetball or falling off a bike. An avulsion of the ear may
occur when a pierced earring catches on something and tears away from the ear.
 The ear can also be injured internally. A foreign object, such as dirt, an insect or cotton, can easily become
lodged in the ear canal. A direct blow to the head may rupture the eardrum. Sudden pressure changes, such
 as those caused by an explosion or a deep-water dive, can also injure the ear internally. The person may
lose hearing or balance or experience inner ear pain. These injuries require more advanced medical care.
What do you do to treat a perforation of the eardrum?
 Help the casualty into a half-sitting position, with his head tilted to the injured side to allow blood to drain
from the ear.
 Hold a sterile dressing or a clean, gauze pad lightly in place on the ear. Do not plug the ear. Send or take
the casualty to the hospital.
* What are examples of nose injuries?
 Falling or getting hit in the nose can result in a nosebleed. Other, nontraumatic causes of
nosebleeds include breathing dry air and changes in altitude. Certain medical conditions (such as
hypertension, or high blood pressure) and the use of certain medications (such as blood thinners)
can make a person more susceptible to nosebleeds.
Neck injuries?
 The neck contains the esophagus, larynx and part of the trachea. It also contains major blood
vessels, muscles and tendons, and the cervical bones of the spine. Any injury to the neck must be
considered serious. Crushing, rotating, tension or penetrating forces that cause the neck to stretch
or bend too far can injure the neck. Sharp-edged objects can lacerate the neck’s soft tissues and
blood vessels.

back injuries?
 Lower back pain is common and most adults may experience it at some point in their lives. It may be acute
(sudden onset) or chronic (long term). It is usually caused by age-related degenerative changes or results
from minor injury affecting muscles, ligaments, vertebrae, disks, or nerves. It may be the result of heavy
manual work, a fall, or a turning or twisting movement. Serious conditions causing back pain are rare and
beyond the scope of first aid. Most cases are simple muscular backaches, often in the lower back. In some
casualties, the pain may extend down one leg. This is called sciatica and is caused by pressure on the
nerve root (a so-called "pinched nerve"). Back pain that results from more serious mechanisms of injury may
indicate spinal injury and requires investigation and treatment (see Spinal injury, pp.157–59).
* What is the FA for blisters?
 Wash the area with clean water and rinse. Gently pat the area and surrounding skin thoroughly dry with a
sterile gauze pad. If it is not possible to wash the area, keep it as clean as possible.
 Cover the blister with an adhesive dressing; make sure the pad of the bandage is larger than the blister.
Ideally use a blister bandage, which has a cushioned pad that provides extra protection and comfort.
*What is a shock and what are the causes?
Shock is a progressive, life-threatening condition in which the circulatory system fails to deliver enough
oxygen-rich blood to the body’s tissues and organs. As a result, organs and body systems begin to fail. Common
causes of shock include severe bleeding and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), but shock can develop quickly
after any serious injury or illness. A person who is showing signs and symptoms of shock needs immediate medical
attention.
What are the 3 treatment objectives for shock?
 ■ The heart must be working well.
 ■ The blood vessels must be intact and able to adjust blood flow.
 ■ An adequate amount of blood must be circulating in the body.
*What is respiratory emergency?
 Pulmonary emergencies are life-threatening conditions that occur when a person has
difficulty breathing normally. In severe cases, the patient may be unable to breathe at all.
Such emergencies require immediate medical attention to prevent the failure of critical organs, such as the
heart and brain.
Artificial respiration?
 The restoration or substitution of someone's breathing by manual, mechanical, or mouth-to-mouth methods.
What are the 3 main causes of Respiratory Failure?
 Obstruction. When something lodges in your throat, you may have trouble getting enough
oxygen into your lungs. Obstruction can also occur in people with chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma when an exacerbation causes the airways to
become narrow.
 Injury. An injury that impairs or compromises your respiratory system can adversely affect
the amount of oxygen in your blood. For instance, an injury to the spinal cord or brain can
immediately affect your breathing. The brain tells the lungs to breathe. If the brain can’t
relay messages due to injury or damage, the lungs can’t continue to function properly. An
injury to the ribs or chest can also hamper the breathing process. These injuries can
impair your ability to inhale enough oxygen into your lungs.
 Acute respiratory distress syndrome. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a
serious condition characterized by low oxygen in the blood
What are the causes of obstruction that constrict the air passages?
The airway may be obstructed externally or internally, for example, by an object that is stuck at the back
of the throat. The main causes of obstruction are
■ Inhalation of an object, such as food
■ Blockage by the tongue, blood, or vomit while a casualty is unconscious
■ Internal swelling of the throat occurring with burns, scalds, stings, or anaphylaxis
■ Injuries to the face or jaw
■ An asthma attack in which the small airways in the lungs constrict
■ External pressure on the neck, as in hanging or strangulation
■ Peanuts, which can swell up when in contact with body fluids.
Find out the other causes of respiratory failure.

 Drug or alcohol abuse. If you overdose on drugs or drink too much alcohol, you can impair brain
function and hinder your ability to breathe in or exhale.
 Chemical inhalation. Inhaling toxic chemicals, smoke, or fumes can also cause acute respiratory
failure. These chemicals may injure or damage the tissues of your lungs, including the air sacs and
capillaries.
  Stroke. A stroke occurs when your brain experiences tissue death or damage on one or both sides
of the brain. Often, it affects only one side. Although stroke does present some warning signs, such
as slurred speech or confusion, it typically occurs quickly. If you have a stroke, you may lose your
ability to breathe properly.
 Infection. Infections are a common cause of respiratory distress. Pneumonia in particular, may
cause respiratory failure, even in the absence of ARDS. According to the Mayo Clinic, in some
cases pneumonia affects all five lobes of the lungs.
What are the signs and symptoms of respiratory emergencies?
■ Nasal flaring (widening of the nostrils when breathing in)
■ Use of the chest and neck muscles to breathe (muscles pull in around the collarbone and ribs)
■ Grunting

What is poisoning?
 A poison is any substance that causes injury, illness or death if it enters the body. Poisons can be ingested
(swallowed), inhaled, absorbed through the skin or eyes, or injected. Practically anything can be a poison if
it is not meant to be taken into the body. Even some substances that are meant to be taken into the body,
such as medications, can be poisonous if they are taken by the wrong person, or if the person takes too
much. Combining certain substances can also result in poisoning.
What are the frequent causes of poisoning?
 Poisoning can happen anywhere, but most poisonings take place in the home. Children younger than 5
years, especially toddlers, are at the highest risk for poisoning. Children may be attracted to pretty liquids in
bottles, sweet-smelling powders, berries on plants that look like they are edible, or medications or vitamins
that look like candy. Additionally, very young children explore their world by touching and tasting things
around them, so even substances that do not look or smell attractive are poisoning hazards among this age
group. Older adults who have medical conditions that cause confusion (such as dementia) or who have
impaired vision are also at high risk for unintentional poisoning. Box 7-2 lists common household poisons,
and Box 7-3 describes strategies for reducing the risk for unintentional poisoning at home.

What is the FA for poisoning?

 If the person is showing signs and symptoms of a life-threatening condition (for example, loss of
consciousness, difficulty breathing) or if multiple people are affected, call 9-1-1 or the designated
emergency number.
 If the person is responsive and alert, call the national Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. When you dial
this number, your call is routed to the regional poison control center that serves your area, based on the
area code and exchange of the phone number you are calling from (Box 7-5). The poison control center
staff member will tell you what care to give. General first aid care steps for poisoning include the following:
■ Remove the source of the poison if you can do so without endangering yourself.
■ Do not give the person anything to eat or drink unless the poison control center staff member tells you to
do so.
■ If you do not know what the poison was and the person vomits, save a sample for analysis.
What are the signs that tell you NOT to induce vomiting?
 In most instances, vomiting should not be induced. This includes when the person:
■ Is unresponsive.
 ■ Is having a seizure.
■ Is pregnant (in the last trimester).
■ Has ingested a corrosive substance (such as drain or oven cleaner) or a petroleum product (such as
kerosene or gasoline). Vomiting these corrosives could burn the esophagus, throat and mouth.
■ Is known to have heart disease.
What are examples of poisonous plants?
 Lily-of-the-valley, mistletoe, philodendron, oleander, hyacinth, foxglove, mountain laurel, hemlock, poison
ivy, poison oak and poison sumac.

* What are burns?

 A burn is a traumatic injury to the skin (and sometimes the underlying tissues as well) caused by contact
with extreme heat, chemicals, radiation or electricity.
What are the classifications of burns and the FA for each of these?
 Burns are classified according to the depth of skin damage. There are three depths: superficial, partial-
thickness, and full- thickness. A casualty may suffer one or more depths of burn in a single incident. A
superficial burn involves only the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis. It usually heals well if first aid is
given promptly and if blisters do not form. Sunburn is one of the most common types of superficial burn.
Other causes include minor domestic incidents. Partial-thickness burns are very painful. They destroy the
epidermis and cause the skin to become red and blistered. They usually heal well, but if they affect more
than 20 percent of the body in an adult and 10 percent in a child, they can be life-threatening. In full-
thickness burns, pain sensation is lost, which masks the severity of the injury. The skin may look waxy, pale,
or charred and needs urgent medical attention. There are likely to be areas of partial and superficial burns
around them.
 Chemical Burns The general care for a chemical burn is the same as for any other type of burn: stop, cool,
cover. However, there are some special considerations for the “stop” step. Because the chemical will
continue to burn as long as it is on the skin, you must remove the chemical from the skin as quickly as
possible.
■ Dry chemicals. If the burn was caused by a dry chemical, such as lime, brush off the powder or granules
with gloved hands or a cloth, being careful not to get any of the chemical on your skin or on a different area
of the person’s skin. Carefully remove, or help the person to remove, any clothing that was contaminated
with the chemical. Then flush the area thoroughly with large amounts of cool water for at least 15 minutes or
until EMS personnel arrive.
■ Liquid chemicals. If the burn resulted from a liquid chemical coming into contact with the skin, flush the
affected area with large amounts of cool water for at least 15 minutes or until EMS personnel arrive.
If the chemical is in the person’s eye, flush the eye with water until EMS personnel arrive. Tilt the person’s
head so that the affected eye is lower than the unaffected eye as you flush.
 Electrical Burns First aid for electrical burns also follows the general principle of “stop, cool, cover,” but as
with chemical burns, there are some special care considerations when electricity is the cause of the burn.
As always, check the scene for safety before entering. Make sure 9-1-1 or the designated emergency
number has been called, and if possible, turn off the power at its source. Do not approach or touch the
person until you are sure he or she is no longer in contact with the electrical current. Once you have
determined that it is safe to approach the person, provide care as needed until help arrives. Because the
electrical current that caused the burns can also affect the heart’s rhythm or the person’s ability to breathe
 (causing the person to go into cardiac arrest), be prepared to give CPR and use an AED if you are trained in
these skills.
Anyone who has experienced an electrical burn should be evaluated by a healthcare provider because the
person’s injuries may be more extensive than they appear. Although the person may only have a small burn
wound where the electrical current entered or left the body, there may be significant internal injuries caused
by the current passing through the body.
* What is a heat stroke?
 A medical emergency, this condition is caused by a failure of the “thermostat” in the brain to
regulate body temperature. The body becomes dangerously overheated, usually due to a high
fever or prolonged exposure to heat. Heatstroke can also result from the use of drugs such as
ecstasy. In some cases, heatstroke follows heat exhaustion when sweating ceases and the body
cannot be cooled by the evaporation of sweat. Heatstroke can develop with little warning, resulting
in unconsciousness within minutes of the casualty feeling unwell
Heat cramps?
 Heat cramps (painful muscle spasms, usually in the legs and abdomen, caused by loss of fluids
and electrolytes as a result of sweating) are often the first sign that the body is having trouble with
the heat. If appropriate care measures are not taken, heat cramps can turn into heat exhaustion or
heat stroke. To care for heat cramps, help the person move to a cool place to rest, and have him or
her sip a drink containing electrolytes and carbohydrates (such as a commercial sports drink,
coconut water or milk). If a drink containing electrolytes and carbohydrates is not available, have
the person drink water. Lightly stretch the muscle and gently massage the area to relieve the
cramps. When the cramps stop, the person usually can resume his or her activity as long as there
are no other signs or symptoms of illness. Encourage the person to keep drinking plenty of fluids,
and watch the person carefully for additional signs or symptoms of heat-related illness.
Heat exhaustion?
 This disorder is caused by loss of salt and water from the body through excessive sweating. It
usually develops gradually and often affects people who are not acclimatized to hot, humid
conditions. People who are unwell, especially those with illnesses that cause vomiting and
diarrhea, are more susceptible than others to developing heat exhaustion. A dangerous and
common cause of heat exhaustion occurs when the body produces more heat than it can cope
with. Some nonprescription drugs, such as ecstasy, can affect the body’s temperature regulation
system. This, combined with the exertion of dancing in a warm environment, can result in a person
becoming overheated and dehydrated. These effects can lead to heatstroke and even death.
In what ways are they similar in their symptoms?
 Headache
 Dehydration
 Nausea
 Sweating
These are their similarities in symptoms.
In what ways are they different?
 Heat cramps: The result of dehydration and low salt levels. 
  Heat Exhaustion: The result of dehydration and prolonged over-exertion. 
 Heatstroke: The result of the body's inability to regulate its temperature. It can be life-threatening
 Heatstroke follows two less serious heat-related conditions: Heat cramps are caused by
initial exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion. Signs and symptoms include excess
sweating, fatigue, thirst and cramps, usually in the stomach, arms or legs.
* What is a heart attack?
 A heart attack is most commonly caused by a sudden obstruction of the blood supply to part of the
heart muscle— for example, because of a clot in a coronary artery (coronary thrombosis). It can
also be called a myocardial infarction. The main risk is that the heart will stop beating. The effects
of a heart attack depend largely on how much of the heart muscle is affected; many casualties
recover completely. Aspirin can be used to try to limit the extent of damage to the heart muscle
What are the do's and don’ts when administering FA to a person who had a heart attack?
 Call 911 for emergency help. Tell the dispatcher that you suspect a heart attack. If the casualty
asks you to do so, call his own doctor too.
 Make the casualty as comfortable as possible to ease the strain on his heart. A half sitting position,
with his head and shoulders supported and his knees bent, is often best. Place cushions behind
him and under his knees.
 Assist the casualty to take up to one full-dose adult aspirin tablet (325 mg) or four baby aspirin (81 
mg each). Advise him to chew it slowly.
 If the casualty has angina medication, such as tablets or a pump-action or aerosol spray, let him
administer it; help him if necessary. Encourage him to rest.
 Monitor and record vital signs—level of response, breathing, and pulse (pp.52–53) —while waiting
for help. Stay calm to avoid undue stress.
* What is a minor stroke?
 A mini-stroke is when a person has the signals of a stroke, which then completely go away. Most
mini-strokes get better within a few minutes, although they can last several hours. Although the
signals of a mini-stroke disappear quickly, the person is not out of danger at that point. In fact,
someone who has a mini-stroke is at very high risk of having a full stroke within the next 2 days.
Major stroke?
 A massive stroke commonly refers to strokes (any type) that result in death, long-term paralysis, or
coma
What do you do as a first aider to somebody who has a minor stroke? major stroke?
 If you think that a person is having (or has had) a stroke, call 9-1-1 or the designated emergency
number immediately. Note when the signs and symptoms first started (or, if you do not know when
the signs and symptoms started, note the last time the person was known to be well). This is
important information to give to EMS personnel because some of the medications used to treat
stroke are only effective within a certain time frame after the onset of signs and symptoms. Stay
with the person and provide reassurance until help arrives. If the person is responsive but not fully
awake, or if the person is drooling or having trouble swallowing, put the person in the recovery
position and monitor the person’s condition until EMS personnel arrive.
* What is fainting?
 Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness caused by a temporary reduction of the blood flow to the brain. It
may be a reaction to pain, exhaustion, lack of food, or emotional stress. It is also common after long periods
of physical inactivity, such as standing or sitting still, especially in a warm atmosphere. This inactivity causes
blood to pool in the legs, reducing the amount of blood reaching the brain. When a person faints, the pulse
rate becomes very slow. However, the rate soon picks up and returns to normal. A casualty who has fainted
usually makes a rapid and complete recovery. Do not advise a person who feels faint to sit on a chair with
his head between his knees because if he faints, he may fall and injure himself. If the casualty is a woman in
the late stages of pregnancy, help her lie down so that she is leaning toward her left side to prevent the
pregnant uterus from restricting blood flow back to her heart.
Convulsions?
 Convulsion: An abnormal, involuntary contraction of the muscles most typically seen with
certain seizure disorders. The term convulsion is sometimes used as a synonym for seizure, but not all
seizures are characterized by convulsions. A person having convulsions appears to be shaking rapidly and
without control. Other possible causes of convulsions include fever, meningitis, drug or alcohol abuse,
poisoning, hypoglycemia, and head injury.
Epilepsy?
 Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder, estimated to affect approximately 3 million people in the United
States alone. Epilepsy is not a specific disease but a term used to describe a group of disorders in which the
individual experiences recurrent seizures as the main symptom. In about one-third of all cases, seizures
occur as a result of a brain abnormality or neurological disorder, but in two-thirds of cases there is no
known cause.
 In young people (up to the age of 20), the risk for having epilepsy is approximately 1 percent, with the
greatest likelihood occurring during the first year of life. People ages 20 to 55 may also develop epilepsy but
have a somewhat lower risk. The risk increases again after the age of 55 as people in this age group
develop strokes, brain tumors or Alzheimer’s disease, all of which can cause epilepsy. In fact, the highest
rate of new epilepsy diagnoses is in this age group. The prevalence of epilepsy, or the number of individuals
suffering with it at any time, is estimated to be approximately 5 to 8 in every 1000 people. By age 75,
approximately 3 percent of people will have been diagnosed with epilepsy.
 Persons who have epilepsy often can control the seizures with medication. Those with seizures that are
difficult to control may also be treated with surgical resection, which can be curative, or with implanted
devices, such as the vague nerve stimulator, that help reduce seizure frequency. While some people require
lifelong medical therapy, sometimes medication may be reduced or even eliminated over time. Some
childhood epilepsies may resolve with age.
* What are dressings?
 A dressing is a pad that is placed directly on a wound to absorb blood and other fluids, promote clotting and
prevent infection. To minimize the chance of infection, dressings should be sterile. There are many different
types of dressings available. In a first aid situation, gauze pads, which are available in a variety of sizes, are
most commonly used as dressings.
Bandages?
  A bandage is a strip of material used to hold the dressing in place and to control bleeding. Roller bandages,
made of gauze or a gauze-like material, are frequently included in first aid kits and come in a variety of
widths and lengths. Wrap the bandage around the injured body part, covering the dressing completely and
allowing a margin of several inches on all sides. Then tie or tape the bandage to secure it in place. Bandage
compresses, which are specially designed to control severe bleeding and usually come in sterile packages,
are thick gauze dressings attached to a bandage that is tied in place.
What are their kinds?
 CONFORMING ELASTIC ROLLER GAUZE WRAP ROLLER
 SELF-ADHESIVE ROLLER
 FOLDED TRIANGULAR BANDAGE
 GAUZE TUBULAR BANDAGE AND APPLICATOR
What are their uses?
 Rollers These items are used to give support to injured joints, secure dressings in place, maintain
pressure on wounds, and limit swelling.
 Triangular bandages Made of cloth, these items can be used folded as bandages or slings. If they
are sterile and individually wrapped, they may also be used as dressings for large wounds and
burns.
 Gauze tubular bandages Gauze tubular bandages are used with an applicator to secure dressings
on fingers and toes. Elasticated tubular bandages are sometimes used to support injured joints
such as the knee or elbow.
* What is a fracture? (closed? Open?)
 In an open fracture, one of the broken bone ends may pierce the skin surface, or there may be a wound at
the fracture site. An open fracture carries a high risk of becoming infected. In a closed fracture, the skin
above the fracture is intact. However, bones may be displaced (unstable), causing internal bleeding and the
casualty may develop shock
Dislocation? Fracture Dislocation?
 Dislocations are usually more obvious than fractures. A dislocation is a displacement or separation of a
bone from its normal position at a joint (Figure 11-9). This movement is usually caused by a violent force
tearing the ligaments that hold the bones in place. However, if a joint has been dislocated once and the
ligaments holding the bones in place were damaged, subsequent dislocations are then more likely to occur.
In some cases, dislocation can become chronic so that relatively minor movements can cause joint
instability. When a bone is moved out of place, the joint no longer functions. The displaced end of the bone
often forms a bump, a ridge or a hollow that does not normally exist.
Sprain?
 A sprain is the partial or complete tearing or stretching of ligaments and other tissues at a joint (Figure 11-
10). A sprain usually results when the bones that form a joint are forced beyond their normal or usual range
of motion. The more ligaments are stretched or torn, the more severe the injury. The sudden, violent forcing
of a joint beyond its range of motion can completely rupture ligaments and even dislocate the bones. Severe
sprains may also involve a fracture of the bones that form the joint. Ligaments may pull bone away from
their point of attachment. Young children are more likely to have a fracture than a sprain because their
ligaments are stronger than their bones.
Strain?
 A strain is the excessive stretching and tearing of muscle fibers or tendons (Figure 11-11). A strain is
sometimes called a muscle pull or tear. Because tendons are tougher and stronger than muscles, tears
usually occur in the muscle itself or where the muscle attaches to the tendon. Strains often result from
overexertion, such as lifting something too heavy or working a muscle too long. They can also result from
sudden or uncoordinated movement. Strains commonly involve the muscles in the neck or back, the front or
back of the thigh, or the back of the lower leg. Strains of the neck and lower back can be particularly painful
and therefore disabling.
How do we apply FA to each of the above-mentioned conditions?
 A gentle, reassuring approach is important in caring for a person with muscle, bone and joint injury. The
person is likely to be experiencing severe pain and may be frightened. Avoid moving the injured part of the
person’s body; keep the injured area stable in the position found until more advanced medical personnel
take over.
 The general care for musculoskeletal injuries includes following the mnemonic RICE: rest, immobilize, cold
and elevate:
Rest Avoid any movements or activities that cause pain. Do not move or straighten the injured area; do not
try to straighten angulated fractures. Help the person find the most comfortable position to rest in until
help arrives. If you suspect injuries to the head, neck or spine, remind the person to remain still, and avoid
moving their head or neck until EMS arrives. Do not hold the person’s head or try to forcibly restrict their
movement as this may only lead to further complications. If you are alone and have to leave to get help,
place the person in the recovery position.
Immobilize If you suspect a serious musculoskeletal injury, you must immobilize the injured part (keep it
from moving) before giving the additional care.
Cold helps reduce swelling and eases pain and discomfort. You can make a cold pack by filling a plastic
bag with ice and water or by using a large bag of frozen vegetables, such as peas. You can also use a
commercial cold pack if other options are not available. Always place a layer of gauze or cloth between the
source of cold and the skin to prevent damage to the skin. Leave a cold pack on the injured part for no
longer than 20 minutes. If continued cold is needed, remove the cold pack for 20 minutes, then reapply a
new cold pack for an additional 20 minutes. If 20 minutes cannot be tolerated, apply a cold pack for periods
of 10 minutes. Do not apply a cold pack to an open fracture. This could put pressure on the open fracture
site, which could cause discomfort to the person and possibly make the injury worse. Instead, place the cold
packs around the site. Do not apply heat to any acute musculoskeletal injury as there is no evidence that
applying heat helps.
Elevate Elevating the injured area above the level of the heart helps slow the flow of blood, reducing
swelling. Elevation is particularly effective in controlling swelling in extremity injuries. However, you should
only elevate the injured part if it does not cause more pain. In addition, do not attempt to elevate a seriously
injured area of a limb unless it has been immobilized.
* What is emergency rescue?
 An Emergency Rescue is a technical term for a rescue taking place under hazardous
circumstances and with high risk to the rescue personnel, but must be done immediately to save a
person's life
 A rapid movement of patient from an unsafe place to a safe place
What are the indications for immediate rescue?

 The victim has stopped breathing.

 The victim has severe bleeding.
 The victim is being electrically shocked.
 The victim has a heart attack.
 The victim is on fire.
 The victim is drowning.
 The victim has been poisoned.

What are the different methods of transfer?

 Walking Assist To move a person who can walk but needs help*
Place the person’s arm around your shoulder or waist (depending on how tall the person is), and
hold it in place with one hand. Support the person with your other hand around the person’s waist.
(Another responder can also support the person in the same way on the other side.)
 Two-Person Seat Carry To move a responsive person who is not seriously injured*
Put one arm under the person’s thighs and the other across his or her back, under his or her arms.
Have a second responder do the same. Interlock your arms with the other responder’s arms under
the person’s legs and across the person’s back. Lift the person in the “seat” formed by your
interlocked arms.
 Clothes Drag To move a responsive or unresponsive person who may have a head, neck or back
injury. Grasp the person’s shirt behind the neck, gathering enough material so that you have a firm
grip. Cradle the person’s head with the shirt and your hands, and pull the person to safety.
 Blanket Drag To move a responsive or unresponsive person
Fold the blanket in half lengthwise, and place it so that the fold is alongside the person’s body.
Take the top layer of the folded blanket, and roll it toward the person’s body. Position yourself so
that the person is between you and the blanket. Put one hand on the person’s shoulder and the
other on his hip and roll the person onto his or her side, toward you, and then pull the blanket
toward you so that it is against the person’s body. Roll the person onto his or her back, onto the
blanket. Pull the side of the blanket that was rolled up toward yourself, so that the person is in the
middle of the blanket. Gather the blanket at the person’s head and pull the person to safety.
 Ankle Drag To move a person who is too large to move another way
Cross the person’s arms over his or her chest. Firmly grasp the person’s ankles. Move backward,
pulling the person in a straight line and being careful not to bump the person’s head.