Basic Knowledge
What is the primary goal of first aid?
The primary goal of first aid is to preserve life, prevent the condition from worsening, and promote recovery.
What is the purpose of CPR?
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is performed to manually pump blood and oxygen to vital organs when a person's heart has stopped beating.
What are the steps to control external bleeding?
The steps to control external bleeding are applying direct pressure to the wound, elevating the injured area if possible, and applying a sterile dressing or bandage.
How can you recognize a sprain versus a fracture?
A sprain involves damage to ligaments, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint, while a fracture involves a broken bone and may show deformity, swelling, and severe pain.
What are the signs that someone is choking?
Signs of choking include difficulty breathing, inability to speak or cough, and clutching at the throat. The person may also have a panicked expression.
How should you assess the scene before providing first aid?
Assess the scene for any potential dangers to yourself, bystanders, and the injured person. Ensure it's safe to approach.
What is the recommended compression-to-breath ratio for adult CPR?
For adult CPR, the recommended compression-to-breath ratio is 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
When should a tourniquet be used to control bleeding?
A tourniquet should only be used as a last resort if direct pressure and elevation fail to control severe bleeding that poses a risk of death.
What is the first step in caring for a suspected fracture or sprain?
The first step is to immobilize the injured area to prevent further damage. Use a splint or sling to keep the limb stable.
What is the recommended first aid response for a conscious choking adult or child?
For a conscious choking adult or child, perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) until the obstruction is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious.
What does the acronym "ABCDE" stand for in first aid?
"ABCDE" stands for Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure. It's a systematic approach used to assess and prioritize treatment for a patient.
When should an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) be used?
An AED should be used when someone is unresponsive, not breathing normally, and shows no signs of circulation. It delivers an electric shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm.
How do you care for a wound that has an embedded object?
Do not remove the embedded object. Instead, stabilize it and the surrounding area and seek medical help immediately.
When is it appropriate to remove a splint from an injured limb?
A splint should only be removed by medical professionals after an X-ray confirms that the bone is adequately healed.
What should you do if the choking person becomes unconscious?
If the choking person becomes unconscious, carefully lower them to the ground and start CPR, beginning with chest compressions. Check the mouth for the obstruction and remove it if visible.
What is the recommended technique for treating a minor burn?
For minor burns, run cool water over the affected area for at least 10 minutes to soothe the burn and relieve pain. Then cover the burn with a sterile gauze or clean cloth.
How do you assess if CPR is effective?
You should assess if CPR is effective by checking for signs of circulation, such as breathing, coughing, or movement.
What is the purpose of applying a sterile dressing to a wound?
Applying a sterile dressing helps to protect the wound from contamination, promotes healing, and helps control bleeding.
How can you help someone with a suspected spinal injury?
If you suspect a spinal injury, keep the person still and supported in the position found until emergency medical help arrives.
How do you perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) on a conscious choking infant?
For a conscious choking infant, give five back blows followed by five chest thrusts until the obstruction is dislodged or the infant becomes unconscious.
How do you recognize if someone is choking?
Signs of choking include difficulty breathing, inability to speak or cough, and clutching at the throat. The person may also have a panicked expression.
What is the proper procedure for using an AED?
To use an AED, first, turn it on and follow the prompts. Place the pads on the person's bare chest, and the AED will analyze the heart rhythm and advise if a shock is needed.
What should you do if a wound appears to be infected?
If a wound appears to be infected (e.g., redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge), seek medical attention promptly.
What is the R.I.C.E. protocol for treating sprains?
The R.I.C.E. protocol stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. It is a common method used to treat sprains to reduce pain and swelling.
When is it appropriate to call emergency medical services (EMS) for a choking emergency?
Call EMS immediately if the choking person becomes unconscious, if the choking person is pregnant or obese, or if the choking person is unable to cough, speak, or breathe effectively.