Monthly Archive for September, 2009

Poisoning

 What is Poisoning?

Poisoning occurs when the body comes into contact with a harmful or toxic substance which has been swallowed, inhaled, absorbed or injected.

Different poisons affect the body in different ways, they can take effect quickly or over time. Poisoning should be considered as a cause if someone suddenly becomes ill for no apparent reason, or acts strangely, particularly if they are found near a poisonous substance.

Some of the Signs and Symptoms may be:

· Nausea & Vomiting

· Difficulty Breathing

· Diahorrea

· Abdominal Pain

· Abnormal Skin Colour

· Dizziness/Drowsiness

· Burns around the Nose or Mouth

· Blurred Vision

· Seizures

· Unconsciousness

How to Help

· Ensure your safety – protect yourself from poisoning.

· Immediately CALL 111

· Contact the National Poisons Centre – 0800 764 766 (0800 POISON).

· Check DRABC

· DO NOT make the person vomit without advice from a medical professional

 

This information is for reference only and comprehensive life saving skills can only be gained by attending a First Aid Christchurch first aid course.

DO YOU HAVE THE SKILLS TO SAVE A LIFE? Call today to book your first aid course, mention you saw the pop up ad and receive a FREE mini first aid kit valued at $17.00

Fractures & Dislocations

What is a Fracture?

A bone fracture is a break in a bone and happens because an area of bone is not able to support the energy placed on it. Fractures are common and most people fracture at least one bone during their lifetime!

Some of the Signs and Symptoms may be:

· Bruising

· Loss of Function

· Swelling around the injured area

· Deformity of the Limb

What is a Joint Dislocation?

A dislocated joint is a joint that slips out of place. It occurs when the ends of bones are forced from their normal positions. When a joint is dislocated, it no longer functions properly.

Some of the Signs and Symptoms may be:

· Swelling

· Intense Pain

· Immobility of injured joint

· Deformity of the Limb

How to Help

· Try not to move the patient unless it is absolutely necessary.

· Control any bleeding.

· Immobilise the limb. Where possible, it should not be moved at all. Support it in the as found position.

· Cold packs may help reduce pain and swelling.

· Keep the patient warm and continue to reassure them.

· Check for signs of shock.

 

This information is for reference only and comprehensive life saving skills can only be gained by attending a First Aid Christchurch first aid course.

DO YOU HAVE THE SKILLS TO SAVE A LIFE? Call today to book your first aid course, mention you saw the pop up ad and receive a FREE mini first aid kit valued at $17.00

Angina or Heart Attack

What Is Angina?

Angina is a painful or uncomfortable sensation in the chest that occurs when part of the heart does not receive enough oxygen.

What Is A Heart Attack?

Heart attack occurs when there is blockage of a coronary artery. Heart attack lasts much longer than angina, and its symptoms generally continue even after a person rests.

Some of the Signs and Symptoms may be

· Chest Pain

· Pain on Left Side – shoulder/arm/hand/neck/throat/jaw

· Tightness in the Chest

· Nausea

· Breathing Difficulties

· Sweating

· Often mistaken for indigestion

 

How to Help

· Does the patient have a history of Angina and carry medication? If so, give their recommended dose of medication.

· If in doubt, immediately CALL 111.

· The patient should rest.

· Keep them calm and continue to reassure them.

This information is for reference only and comprehensive life saving skills can only be gained by attending a First Aid Christchurch first aid course.

DO YOU HAVE THE SKILLS TO SAVE A LIFE? Call today to book your first aid course, mention you saw the pop up ad and receive a FREE mini first aid kit valued at $17.00

 

Bleeding

If there is excessive bleeding, CALL 111.

Protect yourself – use gloves or plastic bags over your hands.

Using a clean bandage, pad (or whatever is available) apply direct pressure over the wound.

If possible, elevate the wounded area.

If the dressing becomes blood soaked, don’t remove the dressing, but place another dressing on top and continue with the direct pressure on the wound.

Pressure points on a limb will also help to control excessive bleeding.

 

This information is for reference only and comprehensive life saving skills can only be gained by attending a First Aid Christchurch first aid course.

DO YOU HAVE THE SKILLS TO SAVE A LIFE? Call today to book your first aid course, mention you saw the pop up ad and receive a FREE mini first aid kit valued at $17.00

Adult CPR

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure in which cardiac massage and artificial respiration are used to keep oxygenated blood circulating to the brain and around the body to keep vital organs alive.

 

HOW TO HELP

· D – Check for Danger

· R – Check for Response

· S – Send for help – ring 111

 

GIVING ADULT CPR:

· A – Open Airway, head tilt, chin lift

· B – Check for Breathing : Yes – check for bleeding – Control/Apply pressure

No – carry on step C

· C – Give 30 chest Compressions – Give 2 rescue breaths

This information is for reference only and comprehensive life saving skills can onlybe gained by attending a First Aid Christchurch first aid course.

DO YOU HAVE THE SKILLS TO SAVE A LIFE? Call today to book your first aid course, mention you saw the pop up ad and receive a FREE mini first aid kit valued at $17.00