Monthly Archive for December, 2009

Heat Related Illnesses

Heat cramps are painful, brief muscle cramps that occur during exercise or work in a hot environment. Inadequate fluid intake often contributes to heat cramps.

The symptoms of Heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating and a rapid pulse as a result of your body overheating. Causes of heat exhaustion include exposure to high temperatures, strenuous physical activity and dehydration.

Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat illness and is life-threatening. Heatstroke can be brought on by high environmental temperatures, strenuous physical activity or by other conditions that raise your body temperature. Immediate medical attention is required.

Some of the Signs and Symptoms may be:

· Dizziness

· Nausea & Vomiting

· Thirst

· Fainting

· Cessation of Sweating

· Confusion

 

How to Help

· Move the patient to a cool shaded area and remove clothing.

· Rehydrate the patient with as much water as possible.

· Cool the body by fanning the patient or using ice packs if they’re available.

· If the patient becomes unresponsive, CALL 111 immediately.

· Check DRABC.

 

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

Spinal Injuries

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

A Spinal Cord Injury is always a medical emergency as it could lead to chronic painful conditions and permanent paralysis. Spinal cord injuries occur when a traumatic event (often a car, diving or sporting accident) results in damage to the spinal cord.

Some of the Signs and Symptoms may be:

· Patient is lying with their head, neck or back in an awkward position

· Severe pain in the head, neck or back

· Weakness

· Tingling or loss of sensation

· Inability to move arms or legs

· Loss of bowel or bladder control

· Difficulty breathing

· Unconsciousness

 

 

How to Help

· CALL 111 immediately.

· Keep the patient absolutely immobile. DO NOT attempt to reposition the neck or allow the neck to bend or twist if you suspect a spinal injury.

· Unless there is imminent danger or they need CPR, keep the patient in the position where they were found.

· If the patient is unresponsive check DRABC

· Don’t remove helmets unless you need to perform CPR.

· Treat other life-threatening injuries while waiting for help to arrive.

· Keep the patient warm 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

Treating Wounds

An open wound is a type of physical trauma where in the skin is torn, cut or punctured.

How to Help

· For your safety, avoid direct contact with blood, by using disposable gloves or plastic bags over your hands. Cover any cuts, wounds, or scratches on your own skin first.

· Control the bleeding.

· Clean the cut ckin or wound (only if no further medical attention is required). Proper cleaning will help remove any foreign material and reduce the risk of infection.

· Cover the wound with a clean bandage or dressing and apply direct pressure.

· Immobilise the injured part.

 

If a Body Part is Amputated

· CALL 111.

· Control the bleeding.

· Protect the amputated part by keeping it clean and dry. Place it in a plastic bag and keep it cool.

· When calling for assistance advise them of the amputation.

· Treat for Shock.

 

Impaled Objects

· DO NOT remove an impaled object! Impaled objects create a puncture wound and puts pressure on the wound, controlling 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