First aid
saves lives.
Bleeding
Severe bleeding may be life threatening, so
act promptly.
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Apply direct pressure to the wound and
surrounding skin.
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Add dressings as soon as you can,
maintaining pressure.
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Elevate the bleeding part, if possible, and
rest the patient.
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Check circulation below the wound.
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Call for expert aid.
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Watch for shock and unconsciousness.
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Remember the DRSABCD plan.
Before treating a wound,
remember to wash
your hands to prevent
infection.
Minor wounds
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Clean the wound using water or a diluted
antiseptic solution.
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Apply a clean, preferably sterile, dressing.
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Seek medical aid, particularly if the
wound is deep or dirty.
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Don’t remove objects that are impaled
in the wound as this increases tissue
damage and bleeding. Instead, pad
the wound around the object and seek
medical aid.
Hypothermia
People who are immobile, frail or sick are
more susceptible to hypothermia.
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Rewarm the patient slowly. Place blankets
over them (and under if possible) in a
room with a temperature of approximately
25°C.
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If the patient is conscious, give them
warm drinks or high-energy food.
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If the patient is unconscious, follow
DRSABCD and call 000 (Triple Zero) for
an ambulance.
Strokes
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to
the brain is disrupted. The sooner treatment
is given, the more likely it is that damage can
be minimized.
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Follow DRSABCD and reassure the
patient.
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Call 000 (Triple Zero) for an ambulance
immediately.
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If the patient is unconscious, place them
in the recovery position.
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If the patient is conscious, make them
comfortable and ensure their airway is
clear.
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