When there is an emergency in the home, everyone in the family must know where to find a qualified first-aider. A qualified first-aider can give life-saving first-aid treatment to a family member in case of an accident or other medical issue. By becoming a trained first aider, you can ensure that you will be better prepared for an emergency in the family.
Basic First-aid Knowledge
First aid is the name of the game when you observe a family emergency. Having basic first aid can be a lifesaver, whether the incident is a burn, cut, or insect bite. The most effective first aid involves the appropriate use of equipment and techniques. These include the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and bleeding control measures.
One of the most important steps in providing first aid is to remain calm. Being stressed will hinder your ability to think clearly and provide the necessary care when you are in a bind, so remaining calm is the best course of action. Once you are calm and thinking clearly, the next important action is to assess the situation. Knowing where to start can make the difference between your loved one having a full and quick recovery, or a longer, more painful recovery.
Obligation To Give First Aid
In the United States and the United Kingdom, a bystander does not usually have a legal obligation to perform first aid. However, those who are trained as first aid providers may be held to higher standards. Check with your local emergency services for clarification on your local laws. Either way, you should not attempt any first aid procedure that you are not trained to perform. Even if it is something you are trained in, you should not do it unless you can do it safely and without harm to the victim. In most states, once you begin first aid, you have an ethical and sometimes legal duty to continue treatment to the best of your ability until the patient is in the care of emergency medical professionals.
Treating a Family Emergency
Responding to a family emergency by a qualified first aider is smart, as it can help save your loved one. The key is ensuring the first aider is prepared and knows what to do. If you are not sure what to do, consult a physician or emergency medical service. This online resource is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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This content is made possible by M. Rafiq.
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