First aid is usually associated with a red cross symbol. This symbol has been one of the most internationally recognised symbols throughout the years in the world. But, do you know what exactly it means or how important this symbol is? The answers will be discussed below that may make you realize the importance of first aid which is done by certified first aiders. Being one will also be included in the discussion.
What is the Meaning of the Red Cross Symbol?
When first aiders and medical personnel assist in providing first aid response to the wounded on the battlefields, a red cross symbol is put up. This red cross symbol is made sure to be visible enough to say “don’t shoot” to the members of the fighting groups. This symbol also means that the people, vehicles, or buildings using it are not part of the war, but instead are providing medical assistance. The red cross symbol protects military medical units, patient transportation, and the Red Cross’s humanitarian aid.
Who Started the Red Cross Symbol?
The Geneva Conventions adopted the red cross symbol 150 years ago to protect first aiders and medical personnel who are assisting the wounded on the battlefields. This was then adopted by every society providing first aid and humanitarian services around the world.
What are the Other Symbols Used?
The red cross symbol is thought to have religious, political, or cultural connotations by some groups. Hence, the Geneva Conventions created more symbols which are:
- Red Crescent
- Red Crystal
- Red lion with sun
All of which were made in an attempt to resolve perception issues and have the same meaning as the Red Cross.
Who May Use these Symbols?
The red cross, red crescent, red crystal, and red lion with the sun are protected by countries around the world. These are limited to be used only by:
- Official Red Cross organizations and programs.
- Medical Services of the Red Cross’s armed forces.
Hence, it is recognized universally and respected throughout the world as a trusted symbol of neutrality, protection, and humanitarian aid.
What is First Aid?
First aid is defined by Merriam-Webster‘s dictionary as the emergency care and treatment provided to a person who has injuries or sickness before regular medical care is obtained.
Who may Provide First Aid Care and Treatment?
First aid care and treatment may be given by anyone who has the skills and knowledge to do it. Such information may not be taught in most homes or schools, so a first aid course has become available. In this course, enrollees will learn the appropriate first aid treatment for specific injuries and illnesses, and how to do them correctly. Enrollees who also pass an assessment acquire a first aid certificate and may officially be called a first aider.
What Common Injuries may be Provided with First Aid?
Almost all types of injuries may be treated with first aid. Below are some of them:
- Wounds
- Burns
- Snakebites
- Spiderbites
- Sunburns
- Nosebleed
- Sprains, Strains, and Tears
- Fractures
Each of these may be treated with appropriate first aid practices respectively.
What Common Sicknesses may be Provided with First Aid?
Sicknesses may be responded to with first aid. Most of these illnesses are:
- Anaphylaxis
- Heart problems like cardiac arrest and heart attack
- COVID-19
- Thunderstorm asthma
These are common not only in Perth but also throughout Australia.
What is a First Aid Course?
A first aid course equips you with the skills and knowledge in providing appropriate first aid. It involves the care and treatment that may be provided for the above injuries and illnesses, and in other emergencies. Since there are many of them, different first aid courses in 123C Colin St West Perth 6005 have been available to cater to different emergencies and settings.
What First Aid Courses are Available in Perth?
Fortunately, there are accredited first aid course providers in Perth that offer courses recommended by the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC). They offer the following:
HLTAID009 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation- HLTAID010 Provide an emergency first aid response
- HLTAID011 Provide First aidÂ
- HLTAID012 Provide first aid in an education and care setting
HLTAID009 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitationSome first aid courses cover first aid treatment for different injuries and illnesses including those mentioned above. There is also a dedicated first aid course for certain first aid skills like performing CPR.
How to be a First Aider?
Being a first aider may be achieved by enrolling in any of the first aid courses mentioned above. Doing so may be done without any pre-requisite or first aid certification. Acquiring the skills and knowledge in providing first aid care and treatment to injuries and illnesses is already helpful, especially in homes. There are also areas where medical emergencies may be more common like the workplace, education, and care settings. For this reason, the availability of a first aider is not only helpful but also a requirement by the government. Furthermore, the first aider must not have only enrolled in a first aid course in Perth but also acquired a first aid certificate.
What is a First Aid Certificate?
A first aid certificate is a document that proves an enrollee has passed the assessment wherein skills and knowledge in performing first aid responses were tested. This may be renewed in line with the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC)’s recommendations.
What Other Situations may First Aiders be Assigned to?
As mentioned above, a first aider may be available and/or required in homes, workplaces, education, and care settings. Additionally, first aiders may be needed in the following situations:
- Beaches for possible shark attacks.
- Pools for possible drowning where CPR may be needed.
- Environment-related disasters like earthquakes and landslides.
- Wars.
Wars may be the most dangerous situation for a first aider. It occurs between two different groups that may use very powerful weapons. These deadly weapons may hurt and kill not only the members of the opposing side but also a first aider.
How Dedicated Must a First Aider Be?
Being a first aider is not just about providing care and treatment for the injured and ill. In some circumstances, a first aider is put into dangerous situations that may impose risk to his/her life. It depends on the first aider’s dedication to whether he/she still wants to provide treatment to those in need in such situations. Thankfully, during the previous times when wars occurred more often, many first aiders were dedicated enough to risk their lives. They went to the battlefields to treat the injured, wounded, and attempt to save the lives of members of either group. To protect them from being attacked, an emblem was created as a symbol of neutrality and partiality. This symbol is a red cross which is now one of the most recognised symbols in the world.
Conclusion
The red cross symbol in first aid has a deeper meaning and importance. It was adopted mainly to protect first aiders from being attacked. It is their only protection from risking their lives by providing first aid response to the injured and sick, especially in wars. First aiders may also be needed and required in other areas, so people in it may be treated. Being one may be done by enrolling in a first aid course. In doing so, a first aid certificate may be obtained which is required for first aiders in workplaces, education, and care settings.
