First Aid

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

| Minor Burns & Scalds | Sunburn | Heat Exhaustion |

Minor Burns & Scalds

Domestic accidents are the most common cause of minor burns and scalds. Prompt first aid will usually enable them to heal naturally and well, but if you are in any doubt as to the severity of the injury, seek doctor's advice. �
 
Aims
To stop the burning.
To relieve pain and swelling.
To minimise the risk of infection. �
 
Treatment
1) Flood the injured part with cold water for about 10 minutes to stop the burning and relieve the pain. If water is unavailable, any cold, harmless liquid, such as milk or canned drinks, will do.
2) Gently remove any jewellery, watches, or constricting clothing from the injured area before it begins to swell.
3) Cover the area with a sterile dressing, or any clean, non-fluffy material. A polyethene bag or kitchen film makes a good temporary covering. �
 
Do not use adhesive dressings or strapping. Do not break blisters or interfere with the injured area. Do not apply lotions, ointments, creams, or fats to the injury.

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Sunburn

This can be caused by over-exposure to the rays of the sun or a sunlamp. Similar burns can also, rarely, be caused by exposure to a radioactive source. Most are superficial burns, with redness, itching, and tenderness. In severe cases, the skin is lobster-red and blistered; the casualty may also suffer heatstroke. Occasionally, exaggerated reaction to sun exposure can be precipitated by the use of some medicines. At high altitudes, sunburn can occur even on a dull, overcast day in summer or reflection from snow in winter. �
 
Aims
To move the casualty out of the sun and into a cool place.
To relieve discomfort and pain. �
 
Treatment
1) Help the casualty into the shade or, preferably, indoors.
2) Cool his/her skin by sponging with cold water, or soaking in a cold bath.
3) Give him/her frequent sips of cold water. If the burns are mild, calamine or an after-sun preparation may soothe them.
 
If there is extensive blistering or other skin damage, seek medical advice.

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Heat Exhaustion

This condition usually develops gradually, and is caused by loss of salt and water from the body through excessive sweating. It is more common in persons who are unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot, humid environment, and in those who are unwell, especially with diarrhoea and vomiting. �
 
Recognition
As the condition develops, there may be:
- Headache, dizziness, and confusion.
- Loss of appetite, and nausea.
- Sweating, with pale, clammy skin.
- Cramps in the limbs or abdomen.
- Rapid, weakening pulse and breathing. �
 
Aims
To move the casualty to cool surroundings.
To replace lost fluid and salt. �
 
Treatment
1) Help the casualty to lie down in a cool place. Raise and support his/her legs.
2) Provided she is conscious, help him/her to sip plenty of weak salt solution.
3) If recovery is rapid, advise the casualty to see his/her own doctor. �
 
If the casualty becomes unconscious, place him/her in the recovery position. Dial 995 for an ambulance.

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