First Aid Basics
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What you will learn
- 1Define first aid and explain why it is important
- 2Describe the correct steps for treating a minor cut
- 3Identify the appropriate first aid response for common injuries
- 4Explain the RICE method for treating sprains
Mini Lesson
First aid is the immediate help given to a person who is injured or suddenly ill. Knowing basic first aid helps you stay calm and get a grown-up, who calls the emergency number (911 in the US) when someone is badly hurt. Quick action can prevent a minor injury from becoming serious.
Treating a Minor Cut
Even small cuts need proper care to prevent infection. Follow these five steps every time you treat a cut.
- Stop the bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth.
- Clean the wound with clean running water to remove dirt and germs.
- Ask a grown-up to apply antiseptic to prevent infection.
- Cover with a clean bandage to protect the wound.
- Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, warmth, or fever.
Common Injuries and Responses
Different injuries require different first aid responses. Knowing the correct response for each type of injury is essential for staying safe.
- Burn — Cool with running water for at least 10 minutes. Do not use ice or butter.
- Nosebleed — Lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes.
- Sprain — Use the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate.
- Choking — Shout for a grown-up, who calls the emergency number (911 in the US). A trained adult gives back blows and abdominal thrusts.
- Fainting — Lay the person down and raise their legs to improve blood flow to the brain.
Words to know
first aid
Immediate help given to an injured or ill person before professional medical care arrives.
antiseptic
A substance that kills germs and prevents infection in a wound.
bandage
A strip of material used to cover and protect a wound.
sprain
An injury caused by overstretching or tearing a ligament around a joint.
RICE
A first aid method for sprains: Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.
infection
The invasion of the body by harmful germs that cause illness or damage.
abdominal thrusts
A first aid technique used to dislodge an object blocking the airway of a choking person.
Tip: remember RICE for sprains — Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.
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