First aid training is important for two reasons. First, it preserves the lives of others and allows them to receive immediate medical attention. Second, it helps prepare emergency responders for any circumstance, whether they are responding to a traumatic event or dealing with an emergency in their daily lives.
Purpose of First Aid
First aid can help stabilise an injured person until the first aider can get professional medical assistance. Anyone can be trained to acquire a first aid certification all in the same day. There are many first aid courses available in Adelaide CBD, and it’s important to learn as much as possible so you can help in an emergency situation in any setting. Knowing how to perform CPR, for example, could save someone’s life.
CPR First Aid teaches workplace first aid at Level 1/174 Gilles St, Adelaide 5000 and other locations in various Australian states.
Reasons Why People Delay Learning First Aid
Not everyone learns about first aid when they should. Here are some of the top reasons why.
Lack of Awareness
People are generally not aware of the importance of learning CPR and first aid practices and what it can do for them, the community or the workplace.
Lack of Time
With work and other commitments, people often feel that they do not have the time to study and apply for emergency response.
Fear of the Unknown
Some people may be afraid of the idea that they would be the first line responders and others would be counting on to deal with a serious accident or injury.
Lack of Confidence
Many lack the confidence to learn and provide first aid, feeling that it is too complex or they will not be able to remember what to do in an emergency.
Cost
First aid courses can sometimes be expensive. CPR First Aid courses in Adelaide are compliant and of high quality, yet the fees are reasonably low.
What is the Importance of First Aid Training?
First Aid Can Save Lives
When an accident or sudden illness happens, first responders are often the first people on the scene. They are trained to provide medical care and support to those who need it most.
Prevents Further Injury
First aid can be used to treat a wide range of injuries and illnesses, from minor cuts and scrapes to more serious conditions like heart attacks and strokes.
Helps Reduce Pain and Suffering
It is important to know how to properly administer first aid in order to minimise the impact of an emergency situation. Basic first aid skills include knowing how to properly apply pressure to a wound, how to properly bandage an injured limb, and how to administer CPR.
Helps Speed Up the Healing Process
By quickly and effectively responding to an injury and providing immediate care, the first aider can help reduce recovery time and ensure a better outcome.
Reduces the Risk of Infection
First aid can help reduce the risk of infection by immediately cleaning and protecting wounds. This would usually include:
- stopping any bleedingÂ
- cleansing the woundÂ
- applying a bandage
By taking these quick and simple steps, first responders can help to prevent infection and further injury.
Promotes Relaxation and Peace of Mind
When an emergency arises, it can be very stressful. First aid can help reduce the stress of a situation by providing basic life support and emergency response.
Helps You Be Prepared for Anything
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When it comes to providing first aid and responding to emergencies, this adage is unquestionably accurate. In a medical emergency, having a basic understanding of first aid might mean the difference between life and death.
Gives You Better Control Over the Situation
With the knowledge, skills and confidence, you are able to take control of the incidents even when under pressure. As a first aider, apart from providing emergency care, it will be easier for you to relay patient information and steps taken to other first aiders, medical emergency responders, or the doctor.
Common Emergencies at Home and First Aid
Even at times, you’ve been extra careful, accidents still happen. Here are some of the common emergencies at home and their corresponding basic first aid response.
Cuts or Bleeds
To help control bleeding, follow these steps:
- Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean clothÂ
- If the bleeding is coming from an arm or leg, elevate the limb above the heart levelÂ
- If the bleeding is constant and heavy, seek medical help immediately
Burns at Home
Cool the burn with cold running water for at least 5 minutes. Do not put ice on the burn. Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage or clean cloth.Â
Choking
Bend the choking person forward. Between the shoulder blades on the back, give sharp blows using the heel of your hand, up to five times.
Fractures
Apply first aid for a fracture by immobilising the injured body part with a splint.Â
Sprains and Strains
Rest the injured body part, elevate it, and apply ice to reduce swelling.Â
Common Emergencies in the Workplace and First Aid
Businesses are required to have a first aid facility and trained first aid staff to be prepared for accidents or emergencies such as:
Cuts and Scrapes
- Clean the wound with soap and water
- Apply pressure to stop the bleeding
- Cover the wound with a bandage
- Call 000 or bring the affected person to the nearest hospital if the wound is deep or won’t stop bleeding
Burns at Work
- Cool the burn with cold running water for at least five minutes
- Remove any jewellery or clothing that is close to the burn
- Cover the burn with a sterile bandage or wrap
- Bring the patient to the doctor if the burn is large or deeper than first degree
Nosebleeds
- Let the person sit up and lean forward slightly
- Pinch the nostrils shut and breathe through the mouth
- Apply ice to the bridge of the nose
- Bring a coworker to the nearest doctor if the nosebleed lasts longer than 20 minutes or recurs frequently
Sprains and Strains
- Rest the injured body part and avoid trying to use it too much
- Apply ice to the area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day
- Wrap the area with an elastic bandage
- Bring the affected person to the doctor if there is severe pain, swelling, or bruising, or if you cannot move the injured body part
Fainting
- Make the person lie down and elevate the feet above heart level
- Loosen any tight clothing
- Apply cool, damp cloths to the person’s forehead
- Bring the affected person to the doctor or nearest hospital if he or she does not regain consciousness within a few minutes, has trouble breathing, or has other symptoms such as chest pain or an irregular heartbeat
In conclusion, the importance of first aid training cannot be understated. The knowledge gained from this endeavour will help you and your coworkers respond effectively in an emergency. Furthermore, with the appropriate skills and expertise, this will keep you and the people around your immediate surroundings safe e.g. preventing accidents from happening in the first place at home or in the workplace. The benefits of first aid training are numerous, and the cost of a few days of training is well worth the investment.
Where Can I Know More About First Aid Training?
CPR First Aid RTO NO 21903, is available to accommodate your queries about the different courses offered in several locations all over the country. Reach out to us anytime and let us guide you from start to finish.