First aid is the immediate care given to a person who has been injured or suddenly taken ill.¹ Knowing basic first aid skills can be crucial in emergency situations, potentially saving lives.²

Key First Aid Principles

1. Assess the Situation:
   • Ensure your safety and the safety of the injured person.
   • Quickly assess the situation to determine the nature and severity of the injury or illness.³
2. Call for Help:
   • Dial the emergency number (e.g., 911 in many countries) if the situation is serious or if you’re unsure of what to do.⁴
3. Provide Immediate Care:
   • Control Bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or bandage.⁵ Elevate the injured body part if possible.⁶
   • Treat Burns: Cool the burn with cold water, but avoid ice.⁷ Cover the burn with a clean, loose bandage.⁸
   • Manage Shock: Keep the injured person warm and elevate their legs.⁹
   • Perform CPR: If the person is unresponsive and not breathing, start CPR immediately.¹⁰
   • Treat Choking: Administer the Heimlich maneuver if the person is choking.¹¹

Essential First Aid Kit Items

• Sterile bandages of various sizes¹²
• Adhesive tape¹³
• Antiseptic wipes¹⁴
• Antibiotic ointment¹⁵
• Pain relievers¹⁶
• Tweezers¹⁷
• Scissors¹⁸
• Instant cold packs¹⁹
• First aid manual²⁰

Additional Tips

• Stay Calm: Panicking can hinder your ability to provide effective care.²¹
• Avoid Unnecessary Movement: Minimize movement of the injured person, especially if you suspect a spinal injury.²²
• Reassure the Injured Person: Offer words of comfort and reassurance.²³
• Monitor the Person’s Condition: Continuously assess the person’s vital signs, such as breathing and pulse.

By learning basic first aid skills and keeping a well-stocked first aid kit, you can be prepared to handle emergencies and potentially save lives.²⁴ Remember, timely and appropriate first aid can significantly improve a person’s chances of recovery.²⁵