CPR & First-aid Video

Head Injuries

Head injuries need immediate care. If someone has a head injury, keep them still and calm. Look for visible signs like wounds, swelling, or bleeding. Gently press on bleeding areas to slow it, but avoid using too much force.

Watch closely for serious symptoms—like loss of consciousness, vomiting, confusion, or seizures—as these could signal a severe injury. If you suspect a neck or spinal injury, do not move the person.

Always seek medical help to rule out a concussion or internal injuries. Acting quickly could make all the difference.

Broken Bones/Fractures

If you think someone has a broken bone, take quick action to stabilize the injury. Avoid moving the injured area—it could cause more harm. Use a splint or any sturdy object to keep the bone in place, then secure it gently with a bandage or cloth. Apply ice over the area for swelling control, but don’t place it directly on the skin. Get professional medical help immediately. Never try to realign the bone yourself. Prompt and proper first aid can make a big difference in the recovery process.

Snake Bites

Snake bites can be deadly and demand immediate medical attention. If bitten, stay calm to help slow the venom’s spread. Immobilize the bitten limb and position it at or slightly below heart level.

Do not suck out the venom, apply ice, or use a tourniquet—these actions can make the injury worse. Remove any jewelry or tight clothing near the bite to prevent further complications.

Seek professional medical help without delay. If you can safely observe the snake’s appearance, note its details, but getting medical care should always be your first priority.

Diabetic Emergencies

A diabetic emergency happens when blood sugar levels drop too low (hypoglycemia) or spike too high (hyperglycemia). Watch for signs like confusion, sweating, a rapid pulse, or drowsiness.

If blood sugar is low, help by offering a quick source of sugar such as juice, candy, or glucose tablets—only if the person is conscious and able to swallow. For high blood sugar, encourage drinking water and keep an eye out to ensure symptoms don’t worsen.

Do not give insulin unless you are trained to do so. If the individual becomes unconscious or unresponsive, call emergency services immediately. Acting quickly can prevent severe complications.

Heart Attack

Resuscitation Quality Improvement (RQI) simplifies the process for medical professionals to earn their certification cards. Here’s how it works:

1. Complete the American Heart Association (AHA) online course at your own pace. Learn the essentials without feeling rushed.
2. Test your skills on a Voice-Assisted Manikin (VAM) at one of our convenient locations or opt for a virtual session with an experienced instructor.
3. Pass the test and receive your official American Heart Association eCard—fast, efficient, and stress-free.

Seizures

Witnessing a seizure can be unsettling, but basic first aid makes a big difference. Stay calm and ensure their safety by clearing nearby hazards. If needed, gently help them lie on the ground and turn them on their side to keep their airway open.

Do not hold them down or put anything in their mouth. Call for medical assistance if necessary. Stay with the person until they are fully alert and recovered.

Bee Stings

Bee stings can hurt, cause swelling, and trigger discomfort. Start treatment by gently scraping the stinger away—don’t squeeze it, as this can release more venom. Clean the area with soap and water to reduce the chance of infection.

To ease swelling and pain, apply a cold pack to the affected area. For itching, use over-the-counter remedies like antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream.

If symptoms escalate to severe allergic reactions, such as trouble breathing, act fast. Seek medical help immediately or use an epinephrine injector if you have one on hand.

Burns

Burns need immediate care to minimize damage. For minor burns, cool the affected area using running cold water for at least 10 minutes. This helps relieve pain and prevent further harm. Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick bandage, and avoid popping any blisters.

For severe burns, don’t attempt to remove clothing stuck to the skin. Instead, gently cover the area with a clean cloth and get emergency medical help right away. Avoid using ice—it can cause more harm to the tissue.

Poisoning

If someone has ingested poison, act immediately. Start by calling emergency services. Avoid inducing vomiting or giving anything to drink unless a medical professional advises you to do so.

Identify the substance involved, noting the amount consumed and the time of ingestion. This information can be vital for proper treatment.

Keep the person calm and stay with them. Monitor their condition closely until medical help arrives. Immediate action and professional care are critical for the best possible outcome.

Bleeding

Managing bleeding is an essential first-aid skill. For minor bleeding, press gently on the wound with a clean cloth or bandage to stop the flow.

For severe bleeding, lift the injured limb above heart level and apply firm pressure until the bleeding halts. If it persists, use a tourniquet placed above the wound while ensuring you monitor the situation closely.

Keep the person calm and avoid using materials that could cause an infection. For major or unrelenting bleeding, contact medical professionals immediately.

The Basics of First Aid

Emergencies happen when we least expect them. Whether it’s a workplace injury, a car accident, or a sudden illness at home, knowing basic first aid can mean the difference between life and death. This guide will walk you through the essential skills and key principles of first aid, along with practical tips to help you stay prepared.

Why is First Aid Important?

First aid is more than just patching up small injuries—it’s an immediate response that can save a life. Here’s why it matters:

Preserve life: Effective first aid can stabilize life-threatening situations, such as cardiac arrest or heavy bleeding.
Prevent worsening: Quick, proper action can stop a condition from deteriorating. For instance, immobilizing a fractured limb prevents further injury.
Promote recovery: Timely care can pave the way for faster healing, reducing long-term complications.
Empowerment: Above all, understanding first aid equips you with the confidence to act decisively in emergencies.

From helping a choking child to providing CPR for a heart attack victim, basic first aid skills save lives—and we all can learn them.

Core Principles of First Aid

Before jumping into action, understanding these foundational principles is critical:

Assess the situation: Your safety comes first. Check for hazards (fire, traffic, electricity) before approaching an injured person. Observe the cause of injury or illness to determine the appropriate next steps.
Stay calm: Panic can lead to mistakes. Take a deep breath and focus on providing clear, thoughtful care.
Call for help: Dial professional emergency services immediately for severe incidents. Provide precise details like your location and the victim’s condition.
Provide care: Offer the necessary first aid for the specific injury or illness while awaiting professional responders.

Essential First Aid Skills

1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

One of the most critical lifesaving techniques, CPR keeps oxygen circulating in the body during cardiac arrest:

Confirm unresponsiveness and call emergency services.
Perform chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, pressing down about 2 inches on the chest.
If trained, alternate compressions with rescue breaths; otherwise, continue compressions only.

For infants, adapt your method—place two fingers on their chest and press gently.

2. Controlling Bleeding

Uncontrolled bleeding can lead to shock. Here’s what you can do:

Apply firm pressure on the wound with a clean cloth or bandage.
Elevate the injured area above heart level if possible.
If the bleeding doesn’t stop, add more bandages without removing the initial one.

3. Treating Burns

Burns are a common injury and require swift action:

Minor burns (red skin): Cool under running water for 10 minutes, then cover with a sterile dressing.
Severe burns (blistering or charred skin): Do not apply water or creams. Cover loosely with a clean, non-stick cloth and seek immediate medical help.

4. Choking Relief

When someone’s airway is blocked:

For adults and children, use the Heimlich maneuver. Stand behind them, place your fist above their navel, and thrust inward and upward.
For infants, alternate five back blows with five chest compressions.

5. Responding to Seizures

If someone has a seizure:

Move nearby objects to prevent injury.
Turn the person on their side to keep their airway clear.
Do not attempt to restrain them or place anything in their mouth.

6. Shock Management

Shock can be life-threatening, caused by blood loss, trauma, or severe illness.

Lay the victim flat on their back and elevate their legs.
Keep them warm and monitor their breathing.
Avoid giving food or drink.

Building the Ultimate First Aid Kit

A well-prepared kit is a must-have for any home, workplace, or vehicle. Here’s what to include in yours:

Bandages: Adhesive bandages in different sizes, sterile gauze pads, and medical tape.
Antiseptics: Alcohol wipes, antiseptic cream, and hand sanitizer to reduce infection risks.
Tools: Tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and disposable gloves.
Medications: Pain relievers (like ibuprofen) and antihistamines for allergies or stings.
Special Items: A CPR mask, instant cold packs, and a first aid manual.

Keep your kit in a central, easily accessible location. Check it regularly to replace expired items.

Why First Aid Training is Crucial

Reading about first aid is a great start—but hands-on training takes it to the next level. Training courses help you:

Practice techniques like CPR and using an AED (automated external defibrillator).
Handle real-life scenarios, such as managing choking, burns, or fractures.
Gain the confidence needed to act quickly during emergencies.

Organizations like the Red Cross and St. John Ambulance offer comprehensive courses. Many workplaces also provide first aid training programs.

Debunking Common First Aid Myths

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Here are a few myths worth setting straight:

Myth 1: Apply butter or oil to burns.
Truth: This traps heat and worsens the injury. Use running water instead.

Myth 2: Tilt your head back to stop nosebleeds.
Truth: Tilting back may cause blood to flow into your throat. Instead, lean forward and pinch your nose.

Myth 3: Remove anything stuck in a wound.
Truth: Removing an object could cause further bleeding. Stabilize it and seek help.

Take the First Step Toward Preparedness

Whether you’re at home, out in public, or at work, first aid skills empower you to act efficiently in critical situations. Start by learning the basics, assembling a proper kit, and enrolling in a certified training program.

You don’t need to be a medical professional to save a life. With a little preparation and knowledge, you can make a huge difference. Start today and be the calm in the chaos.