First Aid

Introduction Wounds Bleeding Suffocation Drowning Hanging, Strangling, and Throttling Fainting Nose Bleeds Snake Bites Minor Burns & Scalds Sunburn Heat Exhaustion

| Nose Bleeds | Snake Bites |

Nose Bleeds

These most commonly occur when blood vessels inside the nostrils are ruptured, either by a blow to the nose, or as a result of sneezing, picking, or blowing the nose. Infection, such as a cold or flu, makes the blood vessels in the nose more fragile; nosebleeds may also occur as a result of high blood pressure. Nosebleeds are usually merely unpleasant, but they can sometimes be dangerous, since the casualty can lose a great deal of blood. Where a nosebleed follows a head injury, the blood may appear thin and watery. This is very serious, as it indicates that cerebrospinal fluid is leaking from around the brain. �
 
Aims
To control blood loss, and maintain an open airway. �
 
Treatment
1) Sit the casualty down with his/her head well forward. Don't let his/her head tip back; blood may run down the back of the throat, which can induce vomiting. Ask him/her to pinch the fleshy part just below the bridge.
2) Ask the casualty to breathe through his/her mouth (will also have a calming effect), and to pinch his/her nose just below the bridge. Help him/her if necessary.
3) Tell him/her to try not to speak, swallow, cough, spit, or sniff, as this may disturb blood clots. Give him/her a clean cloth or tissue to mop up dribble.
4) After 10 minutes, tell him/her to release the pressure. If the nose is still bleeding, reapply the pressure for further periods of 10 minutes. If the nosebleed persists beyond 30 minutes, take or send the casualty to hospital in the treatment position.
5) Once the bleeding is under control, and with the casualty still leaning forwards, gently clean around his/her nose and mouth with lukewarm water.
6) Advise the casualty to rest quietly for a few hours, and to avoid exertion and, in particular, blowing the nose, so as not to disturb the clot.

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Snake Bites

Exotic snakes are kept as pets. While a snake bite is often not a serious injury, it can be very frightening. Reassurance is vital, for if the casualty keeps still and calm, the spread of venom may be delayed. Keep the snake, or record its appearance, so that, if necessary, the right anti-venom can be given. Notify the police if an escaped snake remains at large. �
 
Recognition
Depending on the species of snake, there may be:
- A pair of puncture marks.
- Severe pain at the site of the bite.
- Redness and marked swelling around the bite.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Laboured breathing; in extreme cases, breathing may stop altogether.
- Disturbed vision.
- Increased salivation and sweating. �
 
Aims
To reassure the casualty.
To prevent the spread of venom through the body.
To arrange urgent removal to hospital. �
 
Treatment
1) Lay the casualty down. Tell him/her to keep calm and still.
2) Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water, if available.
3) Secure and support the injured part. Dial 995 for an ambulance.
 
DO NOT apply a tourniquet, slash at the wound with a knife, or attempt to suck out the venom.

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