BILD serves as a reminder. - Eight critical first aid principles you need to be aware of.
When we arrive at the incident, first responders sometimes fail to initiate life-saving measures or do so incorrectly, notes emergency paramedic Christopher Klicks (35). It generally takes 10 to 15 minutes in Germany for the fire department to arrive on the scene after the alarm is sounded, stresses Marcel Klicks (35), head of the first aid company "In Case of Emergency Klicks." "First aid is crucial during this timeframe," he adds.
1. prioritize your safety
Firstly, assess whether you can render aid without putting yourself at risk. Designate a warning triangle to mark the accident site.
2. dial 112
Dial 112 – this is the European-wide emergency number. The call operator will inquire about the accident and the injured individual. They can also provide support over the phone until the ambulance arrives.
3. stem the bleeding
If someone is excessively bleeding, the initial step is to cease the hemorrhage. A pressure bandage from your first aid kit might be employed, or a belt or your personal T-shirt might serve as alternatives. Adhere these to the wound firmly.
4. evaluate response
If the individual shows no reaction, address them loudly and gently shake them. "Frequently, we encounter homeless or inebriated individuals who are simply asleep," remarks the first aid trainer.
5. verify breathing
Discern whether the individual's airways are clear and ascertain if they've ingested anything like sausage or bread. Afterward, position their head over to observe if their chest moves. Listen for breaths and feel with your ear if you detect air blowing out of their mouth.
6. administer chest compressions
If the person isn't breathing, commence chest compressions immediately. "Position yourself with both hands crossed over each other just above the heart," instructs Klicks, "and perform compressions roughly five centimeters deep into the chest with a tempo of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, similar to the songs 'Stayin' Alive' or 'Breathless Through the Night'!"
7. maintain the sideways angle
If the person is breathing but seemingly unconscious or slightly responsive, place them in the recovery position (see diagram). "Elevate the head and ensure their mouth is clear to prevent choking due to vomiting," shares Klicks.
8. persist with assistance
The expert stresses, "Continue protecting the person and do so until the paramedic arrives and either continue with compressions or monitor the recovery position for changes."
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Source: symclub.org
