First Aid Scenarios: What should you do?

Environmental

100

How should you treat a blister on a Scout's heel to prevent infection?

• Unbroken Blister: Protect the blister by applying a blister pad or a layer of moleskin to cushion the area and reduce friction.
• Popped Blister: Gently clean the area with mild soap and water. Pat it dry and apply an antiseptic ointment to prevent infection. Cover the blister with a sterile, non-stick bandage to keep it clean, and change the bandage daily or if it gets wet or dirty.

200

What steps should you take to help a Scout recover from heat exhaustion?

• Move the Scout to a cool, shaded area or an air-conditioned space if available.
• Have the Scout lie down and elevate their feet slightly to improve blood flow.
• Encourage them to sip cool water or a sports drink to replenish fluids and electrolytes, but avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks.
• Cool the Scout down by applying a wet cloth to their skin or fanning them. You can also place cool, wet cloths on the neck, armpits, and groin to help lower body temperature.
• Monitor the Scout closely. If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 30 minutes, seek medical help, as this could indicate heat stroke.

300

What steps should be taken to rehydrate a Scout who is feeling faint from lack of water?

• Move the Scout to a cool, shaded area where they can rest.
• Encourage the Scout to take small, frequent sips of water to prevent nausea. If available, give them an electrolyte solution or sports drink to restore their electrolyte balance.
• Avoid giving them too much water at once, as it can cause stomach discomfort.
• Have the Scout continue resting and slowly drink until they feel better. Monitor them to ensure they do not worsen and have them avoid physical activity until they are fully rehydrated.

400

How do you treat fingers showing signs of frostbite on a cold campout?

• Move the Scout to a warmer location, sheltered from the wind and cold.
• Remove any wet gloves or clothing from the affected fingers to prevent further heat loss.
• Warm the frostbitten fingers gradually by placing them in warm (not hot) water, around 98–102°F (37–39°C), for 15-30 minutes until the skin returns to its normal color and feeling.
• Do not rub or massage the frostbitten area, as this can cause further tissue damage.
• Wrap the warmed fingers in a clean, dry cloth and keep them elevated.
• If medical help is accessible, seek it as frostbite can cause serious tissue damage and may require further treatment.

500

How would you identify a Scout with signs of hypothermia and prevent their condition from worsening?

• Move the Scout to a dry, sheltered area, preferably indoors if possible.
• Remove any wet clothing and replace it with dry layers, including a hat and gloves to cover exposed skin. Wrap them in blankets or sleeping bags.
• If you have access to warm (not hot) water bottles or heating packs, place them near the Scout’s armpits, neck, and groin area (core areas), being careful not to place direct heat on the skin.
• Encourage them to sip warm (not hot) liquids like water, broth, or tea to help warm them from the inside. Avoid caffeine 
• Monitor the Scout closely. If symptoms are severe (such as confusion, drowsiness, or slurred speech), seek medical assistance immediately, as hypothermia is a medical emergency.

Fractures & Sprains

100

What steps should be taken to treat an ankle sprain from hiking during Philmont?

• Rest: Have the Scout sit down and keep weight off the injured ankle to prevent further strain.
• Ice: Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the ankle for 15-20 minutes every hour, helping to reduce swelling and pain.
• Compression: Wrap the ankle snugly (not too tight) with an elastic bandage to support the joint and reduce swelling.
• Elevation: Elevate the ankle above heart level to decrease swelling. If possible, have the Scout rest with the ankle propped up on a backpack or rolled-up jacket.

200

How would you identify and stabilize a swollen, potentially broken finger after a fall?

• Immobilize the Finger: Use a small splint or a straight, rigid object (like a popsicle stick or pen) and place it alongside the injured finger.
• Secure: Wrap the splint and finger together with medical tape or a bandage, keeping the finger in a natural, comfortable position.
• Elevation and Ice: Elevate the hand and apply an ice pack, wrapped in cloth, to reduce pain and swelling. Avoid direct ice contact with the skin.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the finger appears deformed, discolored, or the pain persists, suggest the Scout seeks professional medical evaluation.

300

What are the steps to immobilize a forearm that may be broken and prevent it from worsening?

• Stabilize the Arm: Have the Scout hold the injured arm gently against their body to avoid movement.
• Apply a Splint: Use a rigid object, such as a stick or rolled-up magazine, to support the forearm. Place it along the length of the forearm, ensuring the wrist and elbow are immobilized.
• Wrap Securely: Use a bandage or strips of cloth to secure the splint gently to the forearm.
• Create a Sling: Make a sling to support the injured arm, keeping it close to the body to reduce movement.
• Seek Medical Assistance: Encourage the Scout to get further evaluation and treatment from a medical professional, as fractures require specific care.

400

How do you immobilize and treat a suspected broken leg and keep the Scout comfortable? What are the specific steps to take?

• Keep the Leg Still: Avoid moving the Scout and have them lie down comfortably.
• Apply a Splint: If necessary, place a rigid object on either side of the injured leg, such as two sticks, boards, or even rolled-up blankets.
• Secure with Bandages: Tie or wrap the splints to the leg with cloth strips above and below the suspected break to keep the leg stable.
• Elevate and Apply Ice: If possible, elevate the leg and gently place an ice pack (wrapped in cloth) on the injured area to reduce pain and swelling.
• Seek Immediate Medical Help: A broken leg needs urgent medical care to ensure proper treatment and healing.

500

What steps should be taken to manage a potential neck or spine injury to prevent further harm?

• Do Not Move the Scout: Keep the Scout as still as possible. Avoid moving their head or body, as this could worsen the injury.
• Stabilize the Head and Neck: Hold the head and neck gently in place to prevent any movement, using both hands to keep the head aligned with the spine.
• Keep the Scout Calm: Reassure the Scout and encourage them to stay still until help arrives.
• Call for Emergency Help: A neck or spine injury is a serious emergency. Call for medical assistance immediately and wait for trained professionals to take over.
• Monitor Breathing and Comfort: If possible, monitor the Scout’s breathing and keep them calm, but do not move or reposition them until emergency personnel arrive.

Burns

100

How would you treat sunburn after a long day outdoors?"

• Cool the Skin: Move the Scout to a shaded or indoor area. Apply a cool, damp cloth or take a cool bath to soothe the skin.
• Moisturize: Use an aloe vera gel or a soothing lotion (avoid lotions with alcohol) to keep the skin hydrated and relieve discomfort.
• Pain Relief: If necessary, give the Scout an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help with pain and inflammation.
• Stay Hydrated: Encourage the Scout to drink plenty of water to help with recovery.
• Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for signs of severe sunburn, such as blisters, fever, or severe pain, which may require medical attention.

200

What are the steps to treat a minor first-degree burn from touching a hot pan?

• Cool the Burn: Immediately run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 10-15 minutes to reduce temperature and soothe the pain.
• Clean the Area: Gently wash the area with mild soap and water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
• Apply a Moisturizer: Use an aloe vera gel or a burn ointment to keep the skin hydrated and promote healing.
• Cover if Necessary: If needed, cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick bandage to protect it from infection.
• Pain Management: If pain persists, consider administering an over-the-counter pain reliever.

300

How do you treat a second-degree burn caused by accidental contact with a campfire?

• Cool the Burn: Move the Scout away from the heat source and cool the burn under cool running water for 10-20 minutes. If running water isn't available, use a clean, cool compress.
• Do Not Break Blisters: If blisters form, do not pop them, as this increases the risk of infection.
• Cover the Burn: Gently cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing or clean cloth to protect it. Avoid using cotton or materials that may stick.
• Pain Relief: Administer over-the-counter pain medication to help manage discomfort.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the burn is larger than 3 inches, is on the face, hands, feet, or over a major joint, seek medical help immediately.

400

What steps should be taken to treat a chemical burn after spilling a dangerous solution on the skin?

• Remove Contaminated Clothing: Carefully remove any clothing or jewelry that may have come into contact with the chemical.
• Rinse Immediately: Flush the burn area with copious amounts of cool running water for at least 15-20 minutes to wash away the chemical. Ensure the water is not too cold.
• Avoid Applying Creams or Ointments: Do not apply creams, ointments, or home remedies until the area has been properly assessed by a medical professional.
• Cover the Burn: After rinsing, cover the area with a clean, dry, sterile dressing or cloth to protect it.
• Seek Medical Attention: Contact poison control or seek immediate medical attention, especially if the chemical is corrosive or if symptoms worsen.

500

How would you extinguish flames on a Scout's clothing and treat severe burns afterward?

• Stop, Drop, and Roll: If a Scout’s clothing catches fire, have them stop, drop to the ground, and roll over to smother the flames. This helps to extinguish the fire quickly.
• Use Water if Safe: If available, pour cool water over the area to help cool the skin. Avoid using ice directly on burns.
• Remove Burning Clothing: Once the flames are out, carefully remove any burnt or smoldering clothing that is not stuck to the skin.
• Cover the Burn: Cover the burned area with a sterile, non-stick dressing or clean cloth. Do not apply ice or butter.
• Seek Emergency Medical Attention: Severe burns require professional medical treatment. Call for help immediately, and keep the Scout calm and comfortable while waiting for assistance.
• Monitor Breathing: Ensure the Scout can breathe comfortably and monitor for shock or other symptoms.

Cuts & Wounds

100

What are the steps to treat a bleeding cut on a finger?

• Wash Your Hands: Before treating the wound, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Rinse the Wound: Gently rinse the cut or scrape under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Clean the Area: Use mild soap to clean around the wound. Avoid getting soap directly in the cut.
• Apply Antiseptic: After cleaning, apply a small amount of antiseptic ointment to help prevent infection.
• Bandage the Wound: Cover the cut or scrape with a sterile adhesive bandage or gauze to protect it from dirt and bacteria.
• Monitor for Infection: Check the wound daily for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus.

200

What steps should be taken to stop a sudden nosebleed?

• Sit Up Straight: Have the Scout sit up straight and lean slightly forward to avoid swallowing blood.
• Pinch the Nose: Pinch the soft part of the nose (below the bony ridge) firmly for about 5-10 minutes without releasing.
• Breathe Through the Mouth: Encourage the Scout to breathe through their mouth while pinching their nose.
• Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the bridge of the nose to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling.
• Do Not Blow Nose: Instruct the Scout not to blow their nose after the bleeding stops, as this can restart the bleeding.
• Seek Medical Help: If bleeding continues for more than 20 minutes or is severe, seek medical assistance.

300

How do you stop the bleeding from a deep cut on an arm?

• Apply Direct Pressure: Use a clean cloth or sterile dressing to apply firm, direct pressure to the cut. Maintain pressure for 5-10 minutes without lifting the cloth to check the wound.
• Elevate the Arm: If possible, elevate the injured arm above the level of the heart to help reduce bleeding.
• Use a Tourniquet (if necessary): If bleeding is severe and does not stop with direct pressure, a tourniquet may be applied above the wound. Ensure it's tight enough to stop blood flow but not so tight that it causes further injury.
• Clean the Wound: Once bleeding is controlled, gently clean the area around the cut with mild soap and water. Avoid getting soap directly in the wound.
• Cover the Wound: Apply a sterile dressing or bandage over the cut to protect it and keep it clean.
• Seek Medical Attention: For deep cuts, particularly those that may require stitches or show signs of infection, seek medical help.

400

If a Scout has a piece of glass stuck in their leg, what steps should you take to treat the wound?

• Do Not Remove the Object: Leave the glass embedded in the leg to prevent further bleeding and injury.
• Control Bleeding: Apply gentle pressure around the area with a sterile cloth or bandage to control any bleeding without pushing on the embedded object.
• Stabilize the Object: Use additional bandages or cloths to stabilize the glass and prevent it from moving.
• Clean the Area: Once stabilized, gently clean around the wound with soap and water, being careful not to touch the glass itself.
• Cover the Wound: After cleaning, cover the area with a sterile dressing to protect it from infection.
• Seek Emergency Medical Attention: Transport the Scout to a medical facility for professional evaluation and removal of the glass.

500

How do you treat an injury if a Scout has a sharp object impaled in their hand? What are the steps?

• Do Not Remove the Object: Leave the sharp object in place to minimize bleeding and prevent further injury.
• Control Bleeding: Apply gentle pressure around the wound with a clean cloth or sterile dressing to control any bleeding.
• Stabilize the Object: Use padding (such as gauze or cloth) around the object to stabilize it. If necessary, tape the object to the padding to prevent movement.
• Elevate the Hand: If possible, elevate the injured hand above the level of the heart to reduce blood flow to the area.
• Monitor for Shock: Watch for signs of shock, such as pale skin, rapid pulse, or weakness, and keep the Scout calm and comfortable while waiting for medical help.
• Seek Emergency Help: Once stabilized, transport the Scout to a medical facility for professional treatment and removal of the object.

Respiratory

100

What steps would you take to help a Scout who is coughing a lot after inhaling water?

• Encourage Coughing: Tell the Scout to keep coughing to expel the water from their lungs. Coughing is the body’s natural response to clear the airway.
• Positioning: If the coughing doesn’t help, have the Scout lean slightly forward, which can help dislodge the water.
• Stay Calm: Reassure the Scout and encourage them to remain calm, as panic can make the situation worse.
• Monitor Symptoms: Watch for signs of distress, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing.
• Seek Medical Help: If the Scout continues to cough excessively or shows difficulty breathing, seek medical attention to rule out any complications like aspiration pneumonia.

200

How would you assist a Scout having trouble breathing during an asthma attack?

• Sit Them Down: Help the Scout sit upright in a comfortable position, which can make breathing easier.
• Encourage Calmness: Reassure the Scout to stay calm, as anxiety can exacerbate breathing difficulties.
• Inhaler Use: If the Scout has a prescribed inhaler, assist them in using it. Remind them to shake the inhaler, take a deep breath, and use it as directed (usually 1-2 puffs).
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on their symptoms, looking for improvement or worsening conditions.
• Call for Help: If symptoms do not improve within 5-10 minutes, or if the Scout has severe difficulty breathing, call for emergency medical assistance.

300

What are the steps to identify and help a Scout who is choking severely?

• Assess the Situation: Confirm the Scout is indeed choking by asking if they can cough or speak; if they cannot, proceed with intervention.
• Call for Help: If you’re with others, have someone call 911 or your local emergency number while you assist the Scout.
• Perform Heimlich Maneuver: Stand behind the Scout, place your arms around their waist, make a fist with one hand, and place it above their navel. Grasp your fist with your other hand and thrust inward and slightly upward until the object is dislodged.
• Continue until Successful: Repeat thrusts until the object comes out or the Scout becomes unresponsive.
• If Unresponsive: If the Scout becomes unconscious, gently lower them to the ground and begin CPR, checking the mouth for the obstructing object after each set of compressions.

400

How would you help a Scout who is hyperventilating, having a panic attack, and feeling light-headed? What are the steps?

• Calm the Scout: Speak to the Scout in a calm, reassuring voice. Let them know you’re there to help.
• Guide Breathing: Encourage the Scout to breathe slowly and deeply. You can suggest they inhale through their nose for a count of four and exhale through their mouth for a count of six.
• Provide a Paper Bag: If available, give the Scout a paper bag to breathe into, as this can help them rebalance oxygen and carbon dioxide levels (do not use a plastic bag).
• Focus on Relaxation: Help the Scout focus on relaxing their muscles, particularly around the shoulders and neck.
• Monitor Symptoms: Continue to monitor the Scout for improvement. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, seek medical assistance.

500

What steps would you take to identify and assist a scout who collapses and isn’t breathing? 

• Check Responsiveness: Gently shake the Scout and shout to see if they respond.
• Call for Help: If the Scout is unresponsive, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number to get professional help.
• Assess Breathing: Look for signs of breathing (rise and fall of the chest, listen for breath sounds). If the Scout is not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR.
• Begin CPR: Place the Scout on their back on a firm surface.
  • Chest Compressions: Kneel beside the Scout, place your hands in the center of the chest, and push down hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute (about 2 inches deep).