Principles of Workplace First Aid
Where can you find information on OH&S requirements for first aid in the OHS Handbook?
OH&S Code Part 11.
What are signs and symptoms of shock?
Decreased LOC, fast pulse, shallow or rapid breathing, pale/blue skin, nausea or vomiting, sweating, enlarged pupils
What does FAST stand for? What is it used to assess?
Stroke.
Face, Arms, Speech, Time
What are signs and symptoms of a fracture?
pain, swelling, discoloration (blue, purple), cool and pale below fracture site
What are the stages of hypothermia?
Mild: body temp drops, shivering involuntarily
Moderate: decreased LOC, violent shivering
Severe: shivering stops, loss of consciousness
What are the three types of consent we need to be aware of?
Express, Implied, Minor
Can shock be fatal?
Yes, if left untreated, shock can be fatal.
-Inhalation
-Injection
-Absorption
-Ingestion
What should we not do when you suspect a head or spinal injury?
Move the patient, unless absolutely necessary.
Ex. vomiting, unsafe scene, airway inaccessible
What are the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion?
-severe thirst, sweating, headache, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, pale clammy skin
What is an SDS and what does it tell us?
Safety Data Sheet (SDS's) are summary documents that provide information about the hazards and safety precautions of a product.
Can you give someone suffering from shock food or drink?
No. Refrain from giving a patient in shock anything by mouth. Even if they state they are thirsty.
Opioid overdoses.
What is the purpose of a splint?
Splints are used to immobilize musculoskeletal injuries. If medical aid is delayed, or you must move the patient, a splint could be applied.
What is the first aid treatment for frostbite?
Ensure the area does not thaw and refreeze- this can cause tissue damage. Do not rub the area.
Seek medical attention. Thawing should only occur under medical supervision.
What PPE should we consider before treating an ill or injured person?
Gloves, safety glasses, face shield, pocket mask
Define shock.
The lack of oxygen and nutrient delivery to the cells of the body, caused by a disruption in normal blood flow, resulting in cellular death.
What are the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)?
Decreased LOC, confusion, increased breathing, sweating, hunger
Define minor vs major bleeding.
Minor: common, easy to treat, not a threat to life
Major bleeding: significant blood loss, life threating, can come from a vein or artery
What is the first aid treatment for heat emergencies?
Remove patient from heat to shaded area.
If patient is conscious, provide sips of cool water.
Help cool the patient by removing excess clothing, fanning patient, applying cool packs to the body (armpits, groin), or immersing the patient in cool water.
Be careful not to cool patient too much or too fast.
Call 911 if sweating stops (dry to touch), complain of a headache, shortness of breath, feel nauseous. Monitor patient and move into recovery position if they become unconscious.
How long must an employer keep incident report records for?
3 years
1. Raise arm closest to you
2. Bend ad raise the knee that is furthest from you
3. Place the hand furthest from you on their opposite cheek.
4. Ensure their airway is supported, and their body is supported using their higher leg and arm. Chin placed in hand to assist in an open airway.
What is the proper care for someone suffering from a seizure?
Do not restrain, move dangerous objects away, allow the seizure to run its course, never put anything in the mouth.
When seizure has ended, place in recovery position, monitor vitals
What is the treatment for flail chest?
What is trench foot?
Trench foot occurs when feet are exposed to cold, wet and unsanitary conditions for extended periods of time.