First Aid for Other Common Emergencies

• Health
• 11th Grade

Common Emergencies

Essential First Aid Skills for Common Emergencies

Objective:

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to demonstrate the correct procedures for providing first aid for minor burns, nosebleeds, anaphylaxis, seizures, and concussions.

In our daily lives, accidents and medical emergencies can occur unexpectedly. Knowing how to respond promptly and appropriately can make a significant difference in the outcome. In this lesson, we will cover essential first aid skills for addressing minor burns, nosebleeds, anaphylaxis, seizures, and concussions.

Brainstorm common injuries or medical conditions we haven't learned how to respond to yet.

Why is important to learn first aid strategies and how to respond to common medical emergencies?

 Why is important to learn first aid strategies and how to respond to common medical emergencies?

Epistaxis

Nosebleeds, also called epistaxis, often happen due to dry air, nose picking, or minor injuries. Sometimes, they can be a sign of overuse of nasal sprays or an underlying health issue.

First Aid for Nosebleeds

• Positioning: Instruct the individual to sit upright and lean forward slightly to prevent blood from flowing down the throat.
• Pinching the Nose: Pinch the soft part of the nose just below the bridge and apply continuous pressure for 10-15 minutes.
• Applying Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the bridge of the nose to constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the nosebleed persists for more than 20 minutes or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical assistance.

Identifying Minor Burns

Minor burns are superficial and often affect only the top layer of skin. Look for redness, slight swelling, and pain. They're commonly caused by hot liquids, steam, or brief contact with heat.

First Aid for Minor Burns

Assessment of the Burn: Determine the severity of the burn by assessing its size and depth. 

Cooling the Burn: Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for at least 10 minutes to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

First Aid for Minor Burns

Protecting the Burn: Apply a sterile gauze bandage or clean cloth to the burn to protect it from infection.

Pain Management: Administer over-the-counter pain relief medication if necessary.

Medical Attention:  Seek medical attention if the burn is severe or covers a large area of the body.

Brainstorm signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis.

First Aid for Anaphylaxis

Recognizing Symptoms: Common symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives, rapid pulse, etc.

First Aid for Anaphylaxis

Administering Epinephrine: If the individual has an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen), assist them in administering it immediately.

First Aid for Anaphylaxis

Calling Emergency Services: Call emergency services and inform them of the situation, providing any relevant medical history or information.

Monitoring Vital Signs: Stay with the individual and monitor their vital signs while awaiting medical assistance.

Recognizing a Seizure

A seizure might look scary, but knowing the signs can help. Look for sudden jerks or stiffening of the body, loss of consciousness, and uncontrollable shaking. The person might seem confused or have trouble speaking. Remember, seizures can vary from person to person.

First Aid for Seizures

Ensuring Safety: Clear the area around the person to prevent injury from nearby objects.

Protecting the Head: Place a soft object or folded cloth under the person's head to protect it from injury.

Time the Seizure: Note the duration of the seizure and remain calm.

First Aid for Seizures

Positioning: Once the seizure ends, gently roll the person onto their side to help maintain an open airway.

Reassurance: Provide reassurance and support to the person as they recover.

First Aid for Concussions

Assessment: Assess the individual for signs of a concussion, including headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and memory loss.

Rest and Observation: Advise the person to rest and avoid strenuous activities.

Ice Pack: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Monitoring: Monitor the person for any worsening symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

What is the first step in treating a minor burn?

1. Apply butter to the burn
2. Cool the burn with cool running water.
3. Use a dry bandage on the burn
4. Cover the burn with a towel

What is the recommended position for someone having a seizure?

1. Hold them down to prevent movement
2. Place them on their side to keep the airway clear
3. Sit them in an upright position
4. Put something in their mouth to prevent biting the tongue

What is the first step to stop a nosebleed?

1. Plug the nostrils with cotton balls
2. Blow forcefully to clear the blood
3. Pinch the nostrils together and lean forward
4. Tilt the head back and pinch the bridge of the nose

What is NOT a common symptom of anaphylaxis?

1. Rapid pulse
2. Difficulty breathing or tightness in the chest
3. Epistaxis
4. Swelling of the face or throat

What should you do if a person with a concussion becomes unresponsive?

1. Call emergency services immediately
2. Shake the person vigorously to wake them up
3. Give the person water and food
4. Leave the person alone and wait for them to wake up

Priorities in First Aid for Seizures

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Protect the head

Position in recovery position

Clear the area

Time the seizure

Provide reassurance during recovery

www.nj.gov

Compare and contrast two of the current recognized certifications in NJ? Consider cost, years it is valid for, length of the course, etc. Explain why these certifications might be beneficial to someone your age.