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SCOPE OF FIRST AID
The scope of first aid encompasses a wide range of situations and conditions where immediate care and basic medical assistance can be provided. Here are some areas where first aid plays a crucial role:
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Injury emergencies: First aid is essential for addressing various types of injuries, including cuts, burns, fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, head injuries, and more. It involves providing immediate care to control bleeding, immobilize the injured area, and alleviate pain and discomfort.
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Medical emergencies: First aid is applicable to various medical emergencies, such as heart attacks, strokes, asthma attacks, seizures, diabetic emergencies, allergic reactions, and choking incidents. It includes recognizing the signs and symptoms of these conditions, providing appropriate interventions, and activating the emergency medical services.
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Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): CPR is a critical component of first aid and is used to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation in a person whose heart has stopped beating. CPR techniques involve chest compressions and rescue breaths, and they can be vital in cases of cardiac arrest.
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Airway management: First aid covers basic techniques for managing a blocked or compromised airway. This includes clearing obstructions, performing the Heimlich maneuver for choking victims, and ensuring a clear airway during unconsciousness or respiratory distress.
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Wound care: First aid includes knowledge and techniques for proper wound care. This involves cleaning wounds, applying dressings and bandages, and preventing infection. It also covers more advanced techniques, such as suturing or stapling, in some cases.
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Environmental emergencies: First aid addresses emergencies related to environmental factors, such as heatstroke, hypothermia, frostbite, and poisoning. It includes recognizing the signs of these conditions, providing appropriate care, and taking steps to minimize further harm.
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Bites and stings: First aid provides guidance on how to manage bites and stings from insects, snakes, and animals. This includes cleaning the wound, applying pressure, and seeking medical attention if necessary. First aid may also involve recognizing signs of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and administering epinephrine in such cases.
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Emergency childbirth: First aid covers the basic steps to assist in childbirth when professional medical help is not immediately available. This includes providing a safe and clean environment, assisting with the delivery process, and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and baby.
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Psychological support: First aid extends beyond physical care and includes providing psychological support to individuals in distress. It involves offering reassurance, actively listening, and providing comfort to those experiencing emotional trauma or shock.
It’s important to note that the scope of first aid may vary based on the level of training and the specific guidelines or protocols established by national or local organizations.
Generally, the scope of first aid consist of four parts:
(i) Assessment of the situation; establishing the nature of accident and prioritizing your operations so as not to endanger your life or to intensify the harm on the casualty
(ii)Diagnosis; This is the determination or knowing what is wrong with the casualty based on the history of the case, symptoms and signs.
Symptoms are details of the casualty’s sensations gathered from the conscious victim while talking to him/her. Signs are details obtained from complete examination of unconscious casualty using your own senses to the maximum e.g. by touching, determining the pulse rate, body temperature etc.
(iii) Treatment; Treatment should be done immediately and appropriately
(iv) Disposal to the house for rest or hospital
This will depend on the conditions of the casualty and nature of accidents or illness.