Category First Aid

Asthma Attacks: Recognising the Symptoms and Providing First Aid

Asthma attacks can be frightening and life-threatening if not managed quickly. An asthma attack occurs when the muscles around the airways tighten, causing them to narrow and making it difficult to breathe. Understanding the signs of an asthma attack and…

Shock: How to Recognise and Provide First Aid for Shock

Shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body is not getting enough blood flow, resulting in insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues and organs. Shock can develop after a severe injury, blood loss, allergic reactions, or other medical emergencies.…

Head Injuries: How to Recognise and Respond to Head Trauma

Head injuries are a common occurrence and can range from minor bumps and bruises to serious trauma that affects the brain. It is important to treat all head injuries with caution, as symptoms may not always be immediately obvious. Proper…

Sprains and Strains: How to Recognise and Treat Soft Tissue Injuries

Sprains and strains are common injuries that affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. While they are not usually life-threatening, they can be very painful and may limit movement. Proper first aid for these injuries can help alleviate pain, reduce swelling,…

Bleeding and Wound Management: How to Treat Bleeding Injuries

Bleeding injuries, whether minor or severe, can happen unexpectedly and require prompt action to prevent complications. Knowing how to manage bleeding effectively can stop a situation from becoming life-threatening, as well as prevent infections and promote healing. This guide covers…

Choking: How to Recognise and Respond to a Choking Emergency

Choking is a serious medical emergency that occurs when an object becomes lodged in the throat or airway, preventing normal breathing. Acting quickly and correctly can save a life, whether the casualty is an adult, child, or infant. This guide will…

Cardiac Arrest and Use of Defibrillators (AED): What You Need to Know

Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body. Without immediate intervention, it can lead to death within minutes. Knowing how to recognise cardiac arrest and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can…

Basic Life Support (BLS): A Guide to Saving Lives

  Basic Life Support (BLS) refers to the techniques used to keep someone alive in an emergency until professional medical help arrives. This includes providing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), rescue breaths, and chest compressions for individuals who are unresponsive and not…

A Brief History of AEDs: Saving Lives One Shock at a Time

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are now a common sight in public spaces, workplaces, and schools, playing a crucial role in saving lives during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) incidents. But how did these lifesaving devices come to be? The story of…