Medical Emergencies
Remember to call 911 first. Always check to see if there is someone in the area authorized to deliver Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). If there is, follow instructions from that person.
To stop bleeding
- Wash your hands well with soap and water, if available.
- Apply pressure directly to the wound with sterile gauze, a clean handkerchief, paper towels, tissues, or with many layers of clean cloth, plastic bags, or the cleanest material available. Use bare hands as a last resort.
- Maintain steady pressure for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Make sure the victim is lying down.
- Elevate the limb if victim is bleeding from an arm or a leg.
- Stay with the victim until help arrives.
Watch for signs of shock (loss of blood pressure)
If victim shows pronounced signs of lightheadedness or confusion, or if breathing is shallow or rapid and the skin is clammy or sweaty, follow these steps:
- Keep the victim lying down and elevate the legs.
- Maintain an open airway. If the victim vomits, turn the head sideways and the chin downward.
- Keep the victim warm.
- Reassure the victim.
< back | index | next >
|
