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First Aid Basics

General first-aid tips for common situations include:

· BRUISES: Elevate, and apply ice or a cold pack.

· BURNS: Immerse the burned area in cool water for at least five minutes or until the pain subsides. Cover the area loosely with a sterile gauze bandage. Do not apply ice directly, and do not use ointments or butter.

· BLEEDING OR PUNCTURE WOUNDS: Apply continuous, direct pressure with a clean cloth or towel for about 20 minutes to control bleeding. Rinse the wound with clean water (no soap, as this may irritate the wound); apply an antibiotic, and cover the wound with a bandage or sterile gauze.

Be sure to wash your hands before treating a wound. If you’re not sure about the severity of the injury, call your doctor or head to your local emergency room.

When To Go To The Er

If the injury is severe or complications occur—such as continued bleeding or redness, pain, numbness, fever, or swelling—you need to go to the emergency room.

Be Prepared

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, every emergency can be managed using the four-step process: prevent, prepare, recognize, and act. This includes mock emergency drills with family, CPR classes from your local hospital or Red Cross, and teaching children to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Discuss with your child what constitutes an emergency and in which situations it is appropriate (and not appropriate) to call for emergency help. Help your child to memorize and practice the information they’ll need to provide: their home address, their home phone number, and answers other questions the dispatcher will ask about the person who needs help (whether they are conscious and breathing).V