First aid is a series of simple, life-saving medical techniques that a non-doctor or layman can be trained to perform in medical emergencies, before the intervention of emergency medical technicians or doctors. It is best to obtain training in first aid before a medical emergency occurs. Supplies useful in giving first aid are often kept together in a first aid kit.

Training in first aid is often available through community organizations such as the Red Cross. First aid instruction is a part of military basic training and the Scouting movement. In many countries in the Commonwealth of Nations St. John Ambulance provides first aid training and in some countries operates Ambulance services. In the United States, the American Heart Association also offers first aid training.

First aid is often taught as a four step process:

1. Assess the accident scene for hazards to the victim or rescuer(s), and if necessary perform a protection (suppressing the risk, marking out the dangerous zone etc.)
2. Assess the patient
3. Call for help and activate the emergency medical services (EMS)
4. Provide treatment to the limits of your skill

(see also Emergency Action Principles).

Contents

1 Conditions that often necessitate first aid 2 Providing first aid 3 Techniques and procedures of first aid 4 External links

Conditions that often necessitate first aid

• Also see medical emergency

• Childbirth
• Diabetic coma
• Diving disorders
• Fracture
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Heat stroke
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypoglycemia
• Hypothermia
• Laceration, incision , abrasion and other types of wound or bleeding
• Avulsion
• Sprain
• Strain

Providing first aid

• Emergency medical service
• Good Samaritan law
• Wilderness first aid

Techniques and procedures of first aid

• Artificial respiration
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Occlusive dressing
• Oxygen first aid
• Triage
• Tourniquet
• Sub-abdominal thrusts

External links

This article is about the concept of first aid. A First Aid textbook is available on Wikibooks.

• Emergency Institute http://www.emergencyinstitute.us
• HealthWorld Online - Emergency & First Aid http://www.healthy.net/clinic/firstaid/
• First aid tips and tutorials http://med.mywebcities.com
• First Aid http://www.wildernessmanuals.com/manual_4/index.html - U.S Army manual.
• VBgov.com - First Aid Tips http://www.vbgov.com/dept/ems/firstaid/