(1) We all need help at times in our lives. Sometimes we may have accidents and we may get hurt. When we are injured or suddenly become unwell, we need someone to help us - someone who knows what to do. It is the temporary and immediate help. This timely assistance, comprising simple medical techniques, is most critical to the victims and is, often, life saving. Any lay person can be trained to administer first aid. This First Aid can be carried out using minimal equipment. First aid knowledge ranges from taking care of cuts to deal with an unconscious victim.
What is the importance of knowledge of 'First Aid' in crisis management?
temporary and immediate help. This timely assistance, comprising simple medical techniques, is most critical to the victims and is, often, life saving. Any lay person can be trained to administer first aid. This First Aid can be carried out using minimal equipment. First aid knowledge ranges from taking care of cuts to deal with an unconscious victim.
(2) Handling minor accidents at home or on the road develops a sense of crisis management. This may prepare people to tackle with unexpected emergencies with great confidence. Minor cuts and scrapes usually do not need to go to the emergency room. Yet proper care is essential to avoid infection or other complications. Following guidelines can help you to handle crisis and take care of all.
Stop the bleeding:
Minor cuts and scrapes usually stop bleeding on their own. If they don't, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. Hold the pressure continuously for 20 to 30 seconds and if possible elevate the wound. Don't keep checking to see if the bleeding has stopped because this may damage or dislodge the clot that is forming and cause bleeding to resume. If blood spurts or continues flowing after continuous pressure, seek medical assistance.
Clean the wound:
Rinse out the wound with clean water. To clean the area around the wound, use soap and a washcloth. But soap can irritate the wound, so try to keep it out of the actual wound. If dirt or debris remains in the wound after washing, use tweezers cleaned with alcohol to remove the particles. If debris still remains, see your doctor. Thorough cleaning reduces the risk of infection and tetanus.