As much as possible, everyone must know first aid. Most importantly, accidents and emergencies can happen at any time. Knowing to handle common injuries and emergencies is a life-and death-situation.
How to Deal with Cuts and Wounds?
When faced with a cut or wound, the first step is to clean it properly to prevent infection. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then gently cleanse the wound using mild soap and water. Using either a sterile gauze or a clean cloth, pat the area until it’s dry.
With your clean cloth or gauze, firmly apply steady pressure on the affected body part. Maintain pressure for 5-10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. After that, use a sterile adhesive bandage or dressing to protect the wound from further contamination.
Initial Actions to Do for Sprains and Strains
In case of a sprain or strain, giving the injured area some rest is essential. Avoid putting weight or pressure on the affected limb. Make sure that the injured or wounded area remains elevated. This helps in reducing pain and swelling.
It will also help to put on an ice pack’s wrapped in a thin cloth.
Doing this for the next 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours during the first 24-48 hours can help reduce swelling. Use a compression bandage to support the injured area but ensure it’s not too tight to avoid cutting off circulation.
Got Burned? Be Cool
For minor burns, immediately run cool (not cold) water over the affected area for about 10-20 minutes to cool the burn and alleviate pain. Avoid using ice or very cold water. This could unwantedly do more damage to the skin. Once the burn is cooled, cover it with a sterile non-stick dressing or a clean cloth to protect it from infection. Refrain from applying adhesive bandages directly on the burn.
Someone Choked? Remember the Heimlich Maneuver
If someone is choking and unable to speak or breathe, stand behind them and wrap your arms around their waist. Place your fist, thumb side in, just above their navel and below the ribcage. Grasp your fist with your other hand and deliver quick, inward, and upward thrusts to dislodge the object blocking their airway.