First Aid Is Essential Knowledge That Can Save People

By Author: Jenifer Whitmire
Total Articles: 324
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When someone has been trained in first aid, he or she possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to provide assistance to one who has been wounded or affected by a medical emergency. Promptly performing these simple yet effective measures can often mean the difference between life and death while awaiting professional medical help. By choosing to arm oneself with this vital training, a person is prepared to possibly make a very valuable contribution to the well-being of others.

Medical emergencies come in many forms. A person may start to choke while eating, sprain an ankle, have a seizure, or get badly cut and bleed profusely. If someone is quick to apply certain measures it can lessen the impact of the incident or injury and improve the patient's chances of a positive outcome. However, it is not meant to take the place of the care a doctor can provide.

A large number of facilities such as community centers and health and safety organizations can provide interested persons with this training. It usually only takes a few days to complete one's certification. A comprehensive course will cover such emergencies ...
... as poisoning, fractures and sprains, shock, burns, choking, unconsciousness and bleeding. Instruction in CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) is normally taught as well.

Students will write a knowledge test upon completion of their program, which they must pass in order to become certified. Usually a demonstrated understanding of CPR, and possibly other techniques will also be required as proof that they know the right measures to take in a certain situation. It is essential to know what to do right away in an actual emergency as there will be no time to consult instructions. Properly assessing the emergency is another important aspect first aiders will learn.

One main characteristic of this practice is that it relies on the use of resources available at the time. Since people don't typically carry medical supplies around with them as does an ambulance or hospital, it will be necessary to know how to work with basic materials which are usually present.

People who have been hurt or have experienced a health emergency may be scared and nervous. It can be very comforting for them to hear reassuring words from the one who is providing care until they can receive professional assistance. With an unconscious victim who is not responsive, ensuring his or her safety is the main priority.

Numerous professions require that workers be trained in this vital set of skills. A growing number of occupations include this certification as a prerequisite for employment. At one time only medical personnel needed this training, but today this trend is changing to encompass other sectors such as childcare.

Once someone has received first aid training, he or she can instruct others how to carry out these procedures. While being certified does not automatically qualify one as an official instructor, simply imparting basic details for life-saving techniques to others can be helpful. The biggest reward of being trained in this capacity is possessing the knowledge to possibly save a person's life one day.

Check out www.lifesupport-rcms.co.uk for a summary of the benefits of completing first aid training, now. You will also get more information about our CPR training courses at http://www.lifesupport-rcms.co.uk/manual_handling_training.htm today.