Basic First Aid

Report

● Introduction to Basic First Aid

What’s the First Thing to Do in a Disaster?
- Stay calm! In any emergency, panic can make things worse. The best first aid
starts with a clear mind. Check if you or anyone else is hurt. If someone is
bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth. If they’re unconscious but breathing,
put them on their side to keep their airway open. And if it’s serious, call for help
right away!
- Remember, first aid is like being a superhero without a cape. You don’t need
magic—just quick thinking and simple actions to help save lives. Whether it's
stopping bleeding, treating burns, or giving CPR, knowing basic first aid can turn
you into a lifesaver in times of disaster. So, are you ready to be a hero?

● Objectives | General and Specific Objectives (Lecture and Demo)

1. To equip participants with essential knowledge and skills in basic first aid for
emergency situations.
2. To demonstrate proper techniques in wound care, bleeding control, and
bandaging.
3. To enhance confidence and preparedness in responding to common injuries and
medical emergencies.
4. To simulate real-life emergency scenarios and apply appropriate first aid
responses.
5. To assess and manage different types of injuries, including burns, fractures, and
choking incidents.

● Definition of First Aid

- First aid is the immediate and temporary care given to the victim of an accident or sudden
illness. Its purpose is to preserve life, assist recovery and prevent aggravation of the
condition until the services of a doctor can be obtained, or during transport to hospital or
to the casualty's home.
- The term 'First Aid' was adopted officially in England for the first time in 1879 by the St.
John Ambulance Association. The expression 'First Aid' had not come till 1894 and
intended to designate any person who has received a certificate from an authorized
association that he (or she) is qualified to render first aid.
- What is the difference between basic first aid and basic life support? first aid - its broad
focus is on minor and serious injuries or illnesses, while basic life support has a narrow
focus on life-threatening emergencies, primarily cardiac or respiratory-related.

● Scope of First Aid

1. To determine the nature of the case requiring attention so far as is necessary for
intelligent and efficient treatment-Diagnosis.
2. To decide on the character and extent of the 'treatment' to be given and to apply the
treatment most suited to the circumstances until medical aid is available.
3. To arrange for the 'disposal' of the casualty by removal either to his home or other
suitable shelter, or to hospital.
o Diagnosis
- In deciding the nature of the case, the First Aider must consider its
History, Symptoms and Signs'
- The 'History' is the story of how an accident or sudden illness occurred.
This may be obtained from the casualty (if conscious) or from witnesses.
It may be information that a person is subject to a particular disease on the
surroundings may suggest the cause, e.g. a broken bicycle.
- "Symptoms' are the sensations of the casualty such as feeling cold or
shivery, faintness, nausea, thirst pain, which can be obtained, if conscious
describes. Pain is a very helpful diagnostic point for the First Aider as it
draws his attention to the part which is most probably in trouble and saves
a great deal of time during his examination of the casualty.
- Signs are any variations from the normal conditions of the casualty such as
pallor, congestion, swelling and deformity, which can be observed by the
first aider. Signs are the most reliable indications on which to base
diagnosis, but the circumstances of each particular case will determine the
relative importance of history, symptoms and signs.
o Treatment
- If the cause of the condition is still active remove the cause if possible,
e.g. log of wood on leg, or remove the casualty from the cause of the
conditions, eg gas-filled room.
- Give treatment to preserve life, promote recovery and prevent the
condition becoming worse. Pay special attention to the treatment of failure
of breathing, severe bleeding and shock.
- When there is the slightest doubt as to whether a casualty is dead or alive,
continue treatment until medical aid has been obtained.
o Disposal
 - The speed with which a casualty is brought under medical care is of
tremendous importance in his recovery.
- Unless the casualty is examined by a doctor on the spot, it is the
responsibility of the first aider to see that he is conveyed to his home (or
other suitable temporary shelter) or to hospital as soon as possible in the
manner most suitable in the circumstances. A tactful message should be
sent to the casualty's home or relatives indicating in a general way what
has happened and the casualty's destination.

● Golden Rules of First Aid

Study the surroundings carefully. These may influence the action to be taken and
therefore require careful consideration, for example:
A. Danger from falling building, moving machinery, electric current, fire, poisonous
gases and similar hazards.
B. Weather – if the accident occurs out-of-doors, the casualty may be treated in the
open if the weather is fine; if the weather is bad, he must be removed to shelter
as soon as is reasonably possible.
C. Shelter – Note houses and buildings near at hand, whether occupied or
unoccupied and whether likely to be particularly useful, such as a chemist's shop,
otherwise, temporary shelter may be provided by means of umbrellas, rugs and
the like.
D. Light – It is impossible to treat a patient satisfactorily without sufficient light and
the first aider must provide for this.
E. Assistance – Crowds must be tactfully controlled. If a doctor is present, work
under his direction. If not, ask if anyone with a knowledge of first aid is present.
If neither is available make use of bystanders to the best advantage.
F. Reassure the casualty by speaking encouragingly to him. Warn him to be still
and tell him that he is in trained hands.

● Action at an Emergency
Ø The basic principles of first aid apply to all emergencies, regardless of severity.
As a first aider, your main goals are to:
1. Preserve life – Ensure the casualty stays alive.
2. Prevent deterioration in the casualty’s condition – Stop the condition
from worsening.
3. Promote recovery – Help the casualty heal until professional help
arrives.
- Approach
§ Stay calm and controlled.
 § Ensure your safety before helping others.
§ Announce that you are a trained first aider and take charge if no one
more qualified is present.
§ If there are no doctors, nurses, or more experienced people present,
calmly take charge.
- General Rules
§ Use common sense and know your limitations.
§ Do not attempt procedures you are not trained for.
§ Example: If someone has a severe head injury after a landslide, focus on
stabilizing them and wait for medical professionals instead of attempting
advanced treatment.

● Assessing the situation

o Once you take control of the situation, assess it quickly and
decide on priorities. Ask yourself:
a. Are you or the casualty in danger?
- Example: In a flood, check for rising water
levels or unstable debris before helping someone
trapped.
b. Does the casualty have life-threatening conditions?
- Example: After an earthquake, check for severe
bleeding or unconsciousness.
c. Can bystanders help?
- Example: Ask barangay officials or neighbors to
assist in moving debris or calling for help.
d. Do you need to call for assistance?
● Safety
o Your safety is a priority. You cannot help others if you become
a victim yourself. Minimize risks to yourself, the casualty, and
bystanders.

a. Road accidents – Instruct bystanders to control traffic

and keep vehicles away from the scene.

- Watch for hazards like fuel leaks or fire risks.

- Turn off the ignition of involved vehicles if safe

to do so.
 - Example: On a busy road like EDSA, use
hazard lights or ask others to signal oncoming
vehicles while you assist the injured.

● Determining Priorities
Ø To determine the casualty’s condition, ask them, “What happened?” A response
indicates they are conscious, breathing, and their airway is clear. If they do not
respond, follow these steps:
- Airway, Breathing, Circulation
§ Airway: Ensure the airway is open. Tilt the head back slightly if
necessary.
§ Breathing: Check if the casualty is breathing. If not, start artificial
ventilation (rescue breaths).
§ Circulation: Check for a pulse. If absent, begin chest compressions.
Control severe bleeding by applying pressure to wounds.
§ Example: After a typhoon, if someone is pulled from floodwaters and is
unconscious, clear their airway of water or debris and perform CPR if
needed.
- Unconsciousness
§ Place an unconscious casualty in the recovery position (on their side) to
prevent choking.
§ If spinal injury is suspected, keep them still unless breathing difficulties
or vomiting occur.
§ OTHER HAZARDS:
v Gas and poisonous fumes: If possible, cut off the source and
ensure adequate ventilation.
v Electrical contact: Break the contact, if possible, and take the
necessary precautions against further contact.
v Fire and collapsing buildings: Move the casualty to safety
immediately if you can do so without endangering your own life.
- Getting Others to Help You
§ Some bystanders can be extremely useful and may be able to assist with
treatment. For example:
v Controlling severe bleeding or supporting a badly injured limit.
v Other bystanders may become nuances so you must keep them
occupied to prevent them from interfering with your work. They
can be asked to control traffic crowds or be sent to telephone for
assistance.
 § However, when sending bystanders to the telephone, make sure that they
understand the message that is to be sent. If possible, ask them to write it
down, but in any case, ask them to repeat the message to you before
actually sending it. Always make sure that they report back to you
afterwards.
§ Example: After a bus accident, ask someone to call 911 and another to
comfort other victims while you focus on the most critical injuries.

- Other Needs
§ Treat fractures and large wounds before moving the casualty unless
there is immediate danger.
§ Support injured parts while moving the casualty if necessary.
§ Example: After a typhoon, if someone has a broken leg, immobilize it
with a splint (e.g., bamboo or wood) before moving them to safety.

Calling for assistance

When you realize that immediate help is needed, whether it's from an ambulance, police, fire
brigade, or utility services (like gas or electricity boards), it’s important to call for assistance
without delay. Go to the nearest telephone booth to call for an ambulance or emergency services.
Make sure not to leave the injured or affected person unattended.

If you're making the call yourself or asking someone else to do it, make sure to provide the
following critical information:

1. Your telephone number – This is necessary so they can contact you if needed.
2. Exact location of the incident – Provide a clear description of where the incident took
place. Mention nearby road junctions or any well-known landmarks to help them find the
location quickly.
3. Details about the type and seriousness of the incident – For example, you can say, “It’s a
road traffic accident, two cars involved, and three people are trapped.”
4. The number, sex, and approximate age of the casualties – This helps responders
understand the situation. Include any details about the nature of their injuries if you can,
like if someone is unconscious, bleeding, or in need of immediate medical attention.
5. Request for special help – If you suspect a heart attack, childbirth, or any other medical
emergency, be sure to mention it so the right kind of assistance is sent right away.

Clear and accurate information is essential to get the right help to the scene quickly.
First Aid in Specific Disaster Scenarios

1. Earthquake Preparedness

When a disaster strikes, knowing how to respond can mean the difference between life
and death. In this video, we will discuss the crucial steps to take during an earthquake and
how to properly assemble an emergency first aid kit.

A well-prepared emergency kit is essential for surviving disasters like earthquakes. It is

important to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours because help may not arrive
immediately. Here are the must-have items for your emergency kit:

a. Water: Ensure that you have at least one gallon per person per day for a minimum
of three days. Remember, water is essential for drinking, hygiene, and even basic
cooking.
b. Non-Perishable Food: Stock up on foods that won’t spoil quickly. Canned goods,
energy bars, and dried foods are perfect options. You’ll want easy-to-prepare,
high-energy foods that can last for several days.
c. First Aid Supplies: Your first aid kit should contain the basics to treat cuts,
scrapes, and other minor injuries. Include:
● Bandages for wound care
● Antiseptics to clean wounds and prevent infection
● Pain relievers for pain management
● Sterile gauze, medical tape, and tweezers for dressing wounds and
removing splinters or debris
● Scissors for cutting tape or gauze
● Prescription medications: If you or your family members rely on
medication, ensure you have a supply for at least 72 hours.
d. Tools
● Flashlight: Helps you see in the dark. Always have extra batteries.
● Whistle: Use it to get attention if you need help.
● Multi-tool: A small tool with things like a knife, screwdriver, and pliers.
● Fire Extinguisher: To put out small fires and stay safe.

e. Hygiene Products
● Hand Sanitizer: Keeps your hands clean when there’s no water.
● Soap: For washing your hands if water is available.
● Disinfectant Wipes: Clean surfaces or your hands when needed.
● Waste Bags: For handling waste when you don’t have a bathroom.

f. Important Documents
 ● ID, Insurance, and Emergency Contacts: Keep copies in a waterproof
container to protect them from water.

g.
● Emergency Blanket and Extra Clothing
● Emergency Blanket: Helps keep you warm in cold weather.
● Extra Clothing: Wear extra clothes if the weather gets cold.

Identifying Safe Spots in Your Home and Workplace

When an earthquake happens, knowing where to take shelter is important to stay safe. Here are
some simple tips on identifying safe spots in your home and workplace:

A. Under Sturdy Furniture

- If you're inside and shaking starts, find a sturdy table or desk. These pieces of
furniture can protect you from falling objects and debris. Stay under them until
the shaking stops.

B. Interior Walls
- Stay near walls that are inside the building, especially ones that are load-bearing
(they hold up the building). These walls are less likely to collapse during an
earthquake.

C. Away from Window

- Glass can break during an earthquake, so avoid areas with windows. Stay away
from anything that could shatter and cause injury.
D. Clear Paths
- Make sure that the paths leading to exits are clear. You don’t want to be blocked
by objects or furniture if you need to leave quickly.

"Drop, Cover, and Hold On"

When an earthquake strikes, it’s important to act quickly to protect yourself from injury. The key
technique you should follow is called Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Here’s a simple guide to
follow:
 ● Drop: As soon as you feel the ground shaking, immediately drop to your hands and
knees. This will lower your center of gravity and help prevent you from being knocked
over during the shaking.

● Cover: Next, protect your head and neck. If you're near a sturdy piece of furniture like a
table or desk, get under it. If there’s nothing nearby to shelter under, use your arms to
shield your head and neck, or take cover against an interior wall away from windows.

● Hold On: Once you’re protected, grab hold of the furniture you’re hiding under. Hold on
tightly to it to keep it in place and to ensure you remain protected throughout the shaking.
Don’t try to leave or move until the shaking stops completely.

Remember, Drop, Cover, and Hold On is the most effective way to protect yourself during an
earthquake. Practice these steps regularly so you can react quickly when it matters most.

Administer First Aid After an Earthquake

After the shaking stops, your first priority should be ensuring your safety and then helping
others. Here’s what you can do to provide first aid after an earthquake. Assess the Area for
Hazards before helping anyone, check your surroundings. Look for gas leaks, broken glass,
debris, or unstable structures. Make sure the area is safe to approach.

● Treat Cuts and Abrasions: If someone has cuts or abrasions, clean the wound with
clean water or antiseptic wipes. Apply an antibacterial ointment to prevent
infection, then cover the wound with a sterile bandage.

● Immobilize Fractures and Sprains: If you suspect someone has a broken bone or
sprain, keep the injured area still. Use makeshift materials, like a sturdy stick or
board, to create a splint. This will help prevent further damage until medical help
arrives.Remember, stay calm and act carefully to help those in need after an
earthquake.

● Monitor for Shock: Shock is common after injuries or traumatic events. Look for
signs like pale or clammy skin, rapid breathing, or confusion. If someone shows
these symptoms, lay them down flat and keep them warm with a blanket or
clothing. Elevate their legs slightly to help improve blood circulation and prevent
further shock.

● Address Breathing Difficulties: If someone is having trouble breathing—whether

from injury or panic—first check that their airway is clear. Help them sit up if
they can, and encourage them to take slow, deep breaths. If the person becomes
 unresponsive, you’ll need to begin CPR immediately to help restore their
breathing and circulation until help arrives.

2. What to Do if There's a Fire

If there’s a fire, acting quickly and calmly is crucial. Here’s what to do to stay safe:

● Know How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: Before a fire starts, make sure you know
how to use a fire extinguisher. Remember the acronym "PASS":
- Pull the pin.
- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
This will help you put out small fires quickly, but only if it's safe to do so.

● Get Out, Stay Out, and Call 9-1-1:

- If there’s a fire, your first priority is getting out. Once you’re safe, call 9-
1-1 or your local emergency number to report the fire. Never go back
inside once you’re out, even if you forgot something. Stay out and wait for
the fire department to arrive.

● Yell "Fire!" and Exit Quickly:

- Yell "Fire!" to alert everyone around you. Then, go outside immediately.

If you live in a building with elevators, never use them during a fire.
Always take the stairs to avoid getting trapped.

● Use Your Second Escape Route:

- If you come across a closed door that feels warm or if smoke blocks your
path, do not open that door. It could mean there's fire on the other side.
Instead, use your second escape route. Make sure you always know at
least two ways out of your home or building.

● Escape Through Smoke:

- If you must escape through an area with smoke, get low to the ground.
Smoke rises, so staying low allows you to breathe in cleaner air. Move
 quickly but carefully to your exit, and remember to close doors behind you
as you leave. This helps prevent the fire from spreading.

● When Exit Routes are Blocked:

- If smoke, heat, or flames block your primary exit route, do not try to force
your way through. Instead, stay in the room with the doors closed. Place a
wet towel or cloth under the door to help block smoke from entering.

- Once you're safe, call the fire department or dial 9-1-1. If you have access
to a window, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use a flashlight
to signal for help.

● Once Outside:

- After you’ve safely escaped, go directly to your family’s designated

meeting place. Once you are there, send one person to call the fire
department to report the situation.

- If you can’t reach your meeting place for any reason, follow your family
emergency communication plan. This ensures everyone stays in touch and
remains safe.

3. Flood Preparedness and First Aid

A. Stay Informed About Flood Risks

- Always be aware of the flood risks in your area. Listen to local weather
reports, and keep an eye on flood warnings. Sign up for emergency alerts
if available in your area, and know the evacuation routes. Having this
information can give you time to act quickly before a flood occurs.
B. Elevate Valuable Items and Equipment

- If you live in a flood-prone area, elevate your valuable items, electronics,

and important documents to higher levels in your home. This will help
protect them from water damage. Consider moving appliances, furniture,
and anything that can be damaged by water to higher floors or using
waterproof containers for storage.

C. Evacuate Early and Avoid Floodwaters

 - If flooding is imminent, evacuate early to avoid being caught in rising
water. Don’t wait until it’s too late to leave. If you are told to evacuate, do
so immediately.

- Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters. Even a small amount

of moving water can be dangerous, as it can sweep you away or cause you
to lose control of your vehicle.

D. Treat Injuries Caused by Flooding

- Floodwaters are often contaminated with chemicals, sewage, and debris,

which increases the risk of infection, even from minor wounds. If
someone is injured during a flood, it’s essential to treat the wound
properly to prevent complications.

● Clean Wounds Immediately

● Use clean water or antiseptic to thoroughly clean cuts and
abrasions.
● Gently wash the wound to remove dirt, debris, and
contaminants.
● After cleaning, apply antibacterial ointment to help prevent
infection.
● Cover the wound with a sterile bandage to protect it from
further contamination.

● Prevent Infections
● Floodwaters carry harmful bacteria that can easily infect
wounds.
● Keep the injury dry and covered to minimize exposure to
bacteria.
● If the wound shows signs of infection, such as redness,
swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention immediately.

E. Disinfect and Stay Hygienic

- Flooding can introduce harmful bacteria and waterborne diseases, so it’s

essential to maintain good hygiene to protect yourself. Here’s how to do
that:

● Use Bottled or Boiled Water

 - Drink and use water that has been properly treated. If
you’re unsure whether the tap water is safe, boil it for at
least one minute to kill any harmful bacteria, viruses, or
parasites that may be present in contaminated water.

● Disinfect Surfaces

- Floodwaters can leave behind harmful contaminants on

surfaces. Clean and disinfect all surfaces that came into
contact with floodwater.

- Use a bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water)

to disinfect countertops, floors, and other areas. This will
help kill bacteria and viruses that could pose a health risk.

● Dispose of Contaminated Food

- Any food that has been exposed to floodwater should be

thrown away. Even sealed packages can be contaminated
by floodwater. Don’t consume any food that may have
come into contact with contaminated water, as it can lead to
serious health issues.

4. First Aid for Chemical Spills: Safety Precautions and Cleanup Procedures

When dealing with a chemical spill, prioritize immediate safety by evacuating the area,
wearing appropriate protective gear, and identifying the chemical involved; then,
carefully contain the spill using absorbent materials, preventing further spread, and
follow proper cleanup procedures based on the specific chemical, including neutralization
if necessary, while always consulting safety data sheets (SDS) and contacting relevant
emergency services if the spill is significant.

● Safety Precautions for Chemical Spills

➔ Wear Protective Gear: Always wear protective equipment like gloves, goggles,
and a mask before handling any chemical spill. This helps protect you from
exposure to harmful chemicals.
 ➔ Evacuate the Area: If the spill is large or the chemicals are toxic, evacuate the
area immediately to ensure the safety of everyone nearby. This minimizes the risk
of harm.

➔ Ventilate the Area: If the chemical spill is small and can be managed safely, it's
important to ventilate the area by opening windows and doors. This helps to
reduce the buildup of harmful fumes or vapors in the environment, ensuring better
air quality and minimizing the risk of inhalation.

➔ Identify the Chemical: Identifying the spilled chemical is a crucial step in

handling the situation effectively. Knowing the type of chemical will allow you to
take the proper precautions and follow the correct cleanup procedure, including
selecting appropriate protective gear and disposal methods.

● Cleanup Procedures:
➔ Contain the Spill: The first step is to contain the chemical spill to prevent it from
spreading. Use absorbent materials like sand, sawdust, or kitty litter to soak up the
chemical and keep it in one area.

➔ Neutralize the Chemical: After containing the spill, neutralize the chemical using
agents like baking soda or vinegar. This helps to neutralize the harmful effects of
the chemical, making it safer for cleanup.

➔ Clean up the Spill: Once the chemical has been neutralized, carefully clean up the
spill using absorbent materials, such as a mop or cloth, to remove any remaining
residue. Make sure to dispose of all contaminated materials, such as cleaning tools
or absorbents, in a safe and proper manner to prevent further contamination.
➔ Decontaminate the Area: After the spill has been cleaned up, it's crucial to
decontaminate the affected area to ensure safety. Use a disinfectant or bleach
solution to thoroughly clean the area, eliminating any remaining bacteria,
chemicals, or harmful substances that could pose a health risk. This will help
ensure the space is safe and free from contamination.

FIRST AID KIT ESSENTIALS

A first aid kit typically contains items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, scissors,
gloves, and pain relievers. These supplies can be crucial in treating wounds, reducing bleeding,
preventing infection, and managing pain until professional medical help arrives.
 1. BANDAGES - Various types of bandages such as adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads,
and elastic bandages are essential for covering wounds, controlling bleeding, and
providing support to injured areas.

2. ANTISEPTICS - Antiseptic solutions like hydrogen peroxide or povidone-iodine can be

used to clean wounds and prevent infection.

3. GLOVES - Disposable gloves should be included to protect both the caregiver and the
injured person from potential contamination.

4. MEDICATIONS- Basic over-the-counter medications like pain relievers (e.g,

acetaminophen or ibuprofen), antihistamines, and antacids can be useful for managing
common symptoms.

5. ADHESIVE TAPE - Medical tape is necessary for securing bandages and dressings in
place.

6. SCISSORS AND TWEEZERS: - These tools are handy for cutting tape, removing
splinters, or cutting clothing to access wounds.

7. CPR MASK - A CPR mask with a one-way valve should be included for performing
CPR safely.

8. EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION - It is important to have a list of emergency

contact numbers, including local emergency services and personal contacts.

Additional items that can be included based on specific needs or activities include:

1. Cold Packs: Instant cold packs can provide relief for sprains, strains, or insect bites.

2. Burn Gel: A specialized gel for treating burns can be included to provide immediate relief
and prevent further damage.

3. EpiPen: Individuals with severe allergies may need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector
(EpiPen) in their first aid kit.

4. Safety Pins: Safety pins can be useful for securing bandages or making temporary repairs
to clothing.

5. Splint: A splint can be included for stabilizing fractures or sprains until medical help is
available.
Safety Precautions of First Aid

When providing first aid, your safety is the top priority. Before rushing to help a victim, it's
essential to ensure the scene is safe and that you are not putting yourself at risk. Remember that
calling 9-1-1 or emergency services is often one of the most important actions you can take to
save a life.

1. Your Safety First: Always assess the scene for any immediate dangers such as fire,
traffic, or electrical hazards. If the environment is unsafe, leave the scene and wait for
professionals to arrive. Never put yourself in harm’s way when trying to assist others.

2. Protect Yourself from Disease Transmission: When helping someone, there may be a risk
of exposure to blood or bodily fluids that could carry diseases. To protect yourself:

● Use Preventive Barriers and PPE: If available, always use personal protective
equipment (PPE), such as gloves and masks, to reduce the risk of infection. A
preventive breathing barrier should be used for CPR to avoid direct contact with
the victim's mouth. COVID-19 Protection: During the COVID-19 pandemic, if
other PPE is unavailable or there is a shortage, use a cloth mask for protection
while performing first aid or CPR.

● Cover Your Own Wounds: Before responding to an emergency, cover any open
cuts, sores, or wounds you have with a clean bandage. This will reduce the risk of
infection while you assist the victim.

3. Use Disposable Gloves: Always wear disposable gloves when providing first aid to avoid
direct contact with blood or bodily fluids. This helps protect you from potential infections
or diseases that can be transmitted through exposure to bodily fluids. Make sure to
dispose of gloves immediately after use to prevent contamination.

4. Wash Your Hands Properly: After removing gloves, wash your hands thoroughly with
soap and water. Proper hand hygiene is vital to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
Even if gloves are worn, washing your hands afterward ensures any potential
contaminants are removed. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at
least 60% alcohol as an alternative.

5. Avoid Moving a Victim with Suspected Spinal or Neck Injury: If you suspect that a
victim has suffered a spinal or neck injury, do not attempt to move or shake them.
Moving the victim could cause further damage to the spine, potentially leading to
paralysis or other severe complications. Instead, keep the victim as still as possible and
 wait for professional medical help to arrive. If necessary, support their head and neck in a
neutral position to minimize movement until help arrives.

SELF LEARNING ASSESSMENT:

A. Multiple Choice Questions:
1. What is the main goal of First Aid?
A. Cure
B. Preserve
C. Delay
D. Ignore

2. When does the responsibility of a first aider end?

A. When medical aid arrives
B. After the injury heals
C. When the patient is discharged
D. Before calling for help

3. What should a first aider do after reporting to the doctor?

A. Leave immediately
B. Continue treatment
C. Standby for assistance
D. Take the patient home

4. What is First Aid limited to?

A. Complete medical treatment
B. Assistance during emergency
C. Surgery procedures
D. Long-term care

5. What are the three factors to consider in diagnosis?

A. Age, Symptoms, Treatment
B. Symptoms, Signs, History
C. Medicine, Therapy, Recovery
D. Doctor, Nurse, First Aider

6. In calling for assistance which is considered as the third information passed on?
A. Exact location of the patient
B. The number, sex and appropriate casualties
C. Type and seriousness of the incident
D. Telephone number

7. If the chemical spill is large or if the chemicals are toxic it is important to…
 A. Evacuate Immediately
B. Ventilate the Area
C. Identify the chemical to perform first aid
D. Neutralize the chemical

8. What are the techniques in the event of an earthquake that is the safest action to
minimize injury.
A. Drop
B. Cover
C. Hold on
D. All of the above

B. True or False
1. It is the first aider’s responsibility to act quickly, calmly, and correctly in order to
preserve life, prevent deterioration of the casualty’s condition, and promote recovery.
2. During a road accident, it is always safe to approach the casualty without taking
precautions, even if there is a risk of fuel spillage or fire.
3. In the recovery position, an unconscious casualty should be placed on their side to
prevent choking, unless there is a suspected spinal injury.
4. When treating burns, it is recommended to apply butter, oil, or ointments directly to the
burn to promote healing.
5. For fractures, immobilizing the injured area with a splint or rigid material is essential
before moving the casualty unless there is immediate danger.
6. Understanding where to take shelter during an earthquake is critical to avoid incidents.
7. If you must escape through smoke, get high and go above the smoke to your exit.

Find out how you scored? ANSWER KEY:

1. MCQ 1-8 (B,A,C,B,B,C,A,D)
2. T/F 1-7 (T,F,T,F,T,T,F)