BASIC FIRST AID TIPS

Every year many accidents occur. With some care, they can be prevented. In case an accident does happen you can be of help if you know first aid. Read each of the following carefully. You will be able to give vital first aid if needed. Remember always to seek help from an adult immediately
Do not move the casualty unnecessarily. Keep him warm. Make a diagnosis, decide the treatment and treat . Remember the ABC of first aid. See if his Airways are clear, that he is breathing, and his blood circulation is patent.

1.RESPIRATION:
If it is failing give artificial respiration- mouth to mouth or mouth to nose.

2.BLEEDING:
Arrest the bleeding and protect the wound. Apply direct or indirect pressure. Cover with a dressing, apply a pad and firm bandage. Elevate and keep it at rest.

3.FRACTURES:
Immobilize it with a well padded stiff support reaching the joints on either side of the site and at joints on either side support.

4.BURNS AND SCALDS:
A burn is caused by dry heat and a scald by moist heat like steam, very hot water or oil. Immediately cool the area with cold water for 15 minutes till the pain subsides. Do not break blisters, or apply anything on the burns. Cover with a sterile or clean cloth, pad and bandage. Give fluids.

5.NOSE BLEEDING:
Sit him up facing the breeze and the head slightly forward. Ask him to breathe through the mouth and not to blow the nose. Apply a cold compress over the nose. The soft part of the nose may be pinched close with the fingers for 10 minutes. Cold application on the back of the neck and forehead may help.

6.BEE STING:
Do not press the bag (of the sting) . Apply cold or weak ammonia.

7.ANIMAL BITES:
Wash up with soap and plenty of water .Loose bandage may be applied. Get quick medical aid.

8.SNAKE BITES:
Keep patient calm . Wash with plenty of water and soap. Do not rub hard. First apply a constrictive bandage on heart side of the bite(not to be applied continuously for more than 20 minutes).Do not incise or attempt to suck the wound. Get aid quickly. Try to identify the snake.

9.FAINTING:
Lay him down and loosen clothing around chest and waist. Turn head to one side. The legs may be raised a little. Do not attempt to give any solids or liquids. On recovery small amount of a drink may be given and allowed to sit up and move after rest.

10.GENERAL:
If you are in doubt about the treatment do not do anything. You may do more harm.

FIRST AID KIT:
First Aid kit is a basic essential in every household, especially one where little kids reside. It should also accompany you when you go on trips where injuries are likely to occur, for example, camping and picnics etc.
A basic First Aid kit should contain:
• Sterile gauze pads of different sizes
• Adhesive tape
• Adhesive bandages in several sizes
• Elastic bandage
• Splint
• Antiseptic swabs
• Soap
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic solution
• Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
• Pain killers
• Extra prescription medications (if the family is going on vacation)
• Tweezer
• Sharp scissor
• Safety pins
• Cold packs
• Hot water bottle
• Calamine lotion
• Thermometer
• Plastic gloves
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• List of emergency phone numbers
• Blanket (stored nearby)
The First Aid kit should be kept out of children’s reach and should be restocked regularly, replacing used or expired items.
These simple basic tips and can help save a life.