5 Things You Need to Know About First Aid

1. Expect the Unexpected

Accidents are unexpected by their very nature and knowing what to do in an emergency is what first aid is all about. The self-confidence you gain from knowing first aid procedures and how to act in an emergency cannot be overstated; it could be the difference in saving a life or not. Of course, not all accidents are life threatening, but knowing how to handle minor injuries is important and can prevent them from becoming major problems.

2. Protect the Protector by Using Universal Precautions

Universal precautions reduce the risk of contracting blood-born diseases that the person you are administering first aid to may have. It goes both ways though, the injured person also needs to be protected from any diseases you may have. Physical barriers such as gloves and masks and good hygiene practices like hand washing are the primary ways to stop the transfer of disease.

3. First Aid Kits Come First

A first aid kit should be in every home, in every car and in boats or in tents for use when you're on vacation. Businesses should also have first aid kits on their premises and you should know where the kits are so you can help co-workers with a paper cut or with a major accident if needed. According to the American Red Cross, first aid kits should contain absorbent compress dressings, band-aids, cloth tape, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, aspirin, a space blanket, a breathing barrier, a cold pack, non-latex gloves, hydrocortisone ointment, scissors, rolls of gauze, sterile gauze pads, a thermometer, tweezers and a first aid instruction booklet.

4. They're Not Minor if They Happen to You

Minor injuries or accidents can hurt; paper cuts sting like the dickens and stubbing your toe is excruciating. Minor cuts and scrapes are one of the most common injuries you may have to deal with, especially if you have young children around. Insect bites and stings are also common and first aid includes removing stingers and controlling itching. A bite from an animal or minor cuts and scrapes need to be disinfected, treated with antibiotic cream and covered with a bandage.

5. Serious Injuries Call for Major First Aid

Life threatening injuries, including heart attack, stroke, choking, deep cuts, poisoning, burns, poisonous snake bites, sprains and fractures, require you to learn important techniques for dealing with each appropriately. Take first aid classes to be fully prepared. Contact your local American Red Cross to find classes on CPR, the Heimlich Maneuver and other techniques that will prepare you for life threatening accidents. It never hurts to be prepared.