Basic First‑Aid Procedures

This section introduces the core steps of first aid: scene safety, casualty assessment (DRABC), CPR fundamentals, bleeding control, and management of common injuries (sprains, burns). It highlights how prompt, correct actions can save lives and reduce complications.

Focusing on the DRABC framework (Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation), this section outlines how to evaluate an emergency safely, call for help, and deliver essential life-saving measures like chest compressions and rescue breaths. It then covers basic care for external bleeding (direct pressure, elevation), shock prevention, burn cooling, and splinting sprains. Emphasis is placed on recognising when to seek advanced medical assistance.

Basic First Aid Procedure

Basic first aid is the immediate care provided to an injured or suddenly ill person before professional medical help arrives. It encompasses recognising emergencies, ensuring safety, assessing the casualty, and using simple, evidence-based interventions—such as CPR, wound care, and fracture stabilization—to preserve life, prevent further harm, and promote recovery.

Scene Safety & Initial Response

• Danger: Check for hazards (traffic, fire, electricity) and ensure your own safety before approaching.
• Response: Gently attempt to rouse the casualty (e.g., “Can you hear me? Squeeze my hand if you can respond”).
• Calling for Help: If unresponsive or seriously injured, shout for assistance and dial local emergency services immediately.

DRABC Assessment

• Airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin; look for obstructions (food, blood) and clear them if visible.
• Breathing: Listen and feel for breath for no more than 10 seconds; if absent or abnormal, begin CPR.
• Circulation: Assess for severe bleeding and signs of life (movement, coughing).

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

• Chest Compressions: Place heel of one hand on centre of chest, interlock hands, compress 5–6 cm deep at 100–120 compressions/min.
• Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 breaths; pinch nose, seal mouth, watch chest rise.
• Cycles: Continue 30:2 cycles until help arrives or casualty recovers.

Control of External Bleeding

• Direct Pressure: Apply a clean dressing and press firmly over wound.
• Elevation: Raise injured limb above heart level where possible.
• Pressure Bandage: Wrap firmly to maintain pressure; check distal pulse regularly.

Management of Shock

• Positioning: Lay casualty flat, elevate legs (~30 cm) unless spinal injury suspected.
• Warmth: Cover with blanket to maintain body temperature.
• Reassurance: Keep casualty calm; monitor airway and breathing.

Care for Burns

• Cool the Burn: Run cool (not ice-cold) water over area for 10 minutes.
• Dress: Cover with sterile, non-adhesive dressing.
• Do Not: Break blisters or apply ointments.

Immobilisation of Sprains and Fractures (R.I.C.E.)

• Rest: Prevent movement of the injured part.
• Ice: Apply ice pack for 10–15 min to reduce swelling.
• Compression: Use bandage to limit swelling.
• Elevation: Keep limb raised above heart level.
• Splinting: If fracture suspected, immobilise joints above and below injury before moving.

When to Seek Advanced Care

Uncontrolled bleeding, suspected head/spinal injury, chest pain, difficulty breathing, burns larger than palm, or any deteriorating condition.