Being a first-aid responder is a wholesome, challenging and rewarding position to uphold. You have the power and opportunity to save someone’s life, and with that comes all the responsibilities of doing it correctly.
Therefore, when you become a first aider, there are key principles that you must uphold. Although there are many blogs and articles out there that give you a raft of different principles (based on the country they were written for and in and the association that makes the rules), this one cuts down the mess to give you the straight-up principles you need to know.
The Three Core Principles of a First Aider
Do Not Panic
Easier said than done, but one that remains true to the very core of first aid guidelines. In all the chaos of what is happening around an accident or injury, the first aider must remain calm, composed and focused. Panic can usually set in, causing the person to make mistakes. Still, the first aider must remain neutral and focused on the task at hand. During these moments, you’ll also have to:
- Provide reassurance and guidance to the casualty so they are well aware of what is transpiring
- Use appropriate first aid procedures and techniques to help save their life
- Communicate with bystanders, so they are well aware of what is occurring, and they can do to help
If you think clearly, and remember what you have to do, then you’ll be able to help the person in front of you – but only if you remain calm.
Take Immediate Action
Assess the situation in front of you. If the casualty needs to be moved out of harm’s way, do so with the help of bystanders and place them within an area where you can help them. But make sure you do it without causing further injury. If the person has sustained back or neck injuries, do not move them; clear the surrounding area instead. If the casualty is heavily bleeding, ensure you provide immediate assistance. Careful and deliberate action undertaken without too much delay is most beneficial to the casualty, preserving their life and limbs. Every emergency is different, but you can administer the specific measures, including:
- Act in accord with first aid protocol and, if needed, workplace guidelines
- Safely move away the casualty, minimizing pain and helping stabilize their condition
- Secure the emergency site to reduce further harm to the casualty and bystanders
When the opportunity arises, take immediate action; it will help save the person’s life.
Call Medical Emergency
Without question, you must call local emergency services. While you can help a person stay alive during this period, you don’t have the medical experience or knowledge to do anything more. Legally, it’s also best to leave this in the hands of professionals. When contacting the emergency hotline, be clear and concise in your communication (being calm at this point helps). Provide the following details to ensure that they can send someone over right away:
- Exact address or location of the incident (mention any landmarks around, or check on Google Maps to determine where you are)
- The incident and happened (e.g., car accident, sporting injury)
- Number and the condition of the casualties
- Your name, and if you know it, the name of the casualty
- Your phone number and where the call is being made from (although you’ll be most likely on the phone with them until someone arrives)
Get The Training You Need
If you feel that you can become a first aider, or if you wish to retake your course to hold a valid license, then it’s time to get the training you need.
Consistent first aid training (https://www.firstaidtrainingcalgary.com/) is crucial for saving lives, giving you the skills, mindset, and training you need to take action when needed. There are many courses available, including basic first aid, CPR + first aid, blended CPR and AED, and basic life support (BLS) training. Depending on what you would like, or what is required by your position at your workplace, you can find the right training course for you.
Get your training today by qualified experts and become the first aider you were meant to be!