Personal Best Health Wellness - Emergency

If a co-worker suddenly becomes ill or injured, do you know what to do? First, stay calm. Then, remember these basic immediate first aid steps.

EVALUATE the situation. Call for help. If the victim isn’t in immediate danger, don’t move him or her, especially if there’s a possibility of neck or spine injury. Have someone else go for help while you administer care.

KEEP the person lying down and covered to hold in body heat and prevent shock.

CONDITIONS & WHAT TO DO:

• Shock:
  Call 911. A person in shock needs immediate medical treatment. Have the person lie down on his or her back with feet elevated above the heart. If the person vomits or bleeds from the mouth, place the person on his or her side to prevent choking. Keep the person warm by covering with a coat or blanket. Loosen any tight clothes that might restrict blood flow.
• Heavy bleeding:
  Control by applying direct pressure to the source. Elevate the wound above the victim’s heart.
• Chemical burn:
  Flush eyes or skin with cold water for at least 15 minutes. Then get the victim to the emergency room.
• Nonchemical burns:
  Soak a small burn in cold water (a first-degree burn or a second-degree burn covering 15 percent or less of an adult’s body or 10 percent of a child’s). Don’t treat large burns with water. Instead, make the person as comfortable as possible and get help.

Remember: A first-aid course provides the best training. Check with your local American Red Cross chapter for information. And in the meantime, know your limitations; give only the help you are qualified to give. If you’re not sure, call 911 immediately.