Whether you fancy yourself as a bit of a Florence Nightingale or just want to learn the basic first aid methods in case of emergencies, you’ve come to the right place. Here we’ve put together the first aid tips that every woman needs to know; from treating the childrens’ bumps and grazes to dealing with an unconscious member of the public.
Basic Bumps And Grazes
Let’s start off simple, with something that many parents deal with on a daily basis; bumps, cuts, scratches and grazes. Before you rush off for the first aid kit, make sure you wash your own hands first to reduce the risk of infection. You can even cover your hands with disposable gloves if you want to be extra safe. Next, it’s time to wash the affected area with warm water and/or some antiseptic cleansing wipes. Pat the cut or graze dry with a sterile cloth before covering with a dressing or plaster.
Heavy Bleeding
Heavy bleeding must be dealt with differently to the basic cuts and scratches, as the bleeding needs to be stopped right away. If you have time then wash your hands and put on some disposable gloves, but if the patient needs immediate attention then just ensure your hands are scrubbed thoroughly afterwards. You need to apply direct pressure to the wound, using a sterile cloth if available. If nothing is available, then you can use your gloved hands or a piece of fabric from your clothing. If there is a lot of bleeding then you should call the emergency services and stay there with the patient until they get there, still applying pressure to the wound.
Unconscious And Not Breathing
If you notice someone has become unconscious and is now not breathing, then you need to act fast. You can check for breathing by tilting their head slightly backwards and feeling for air. Be careful not to move someone too much, however, as this could do more harm than good. Make sure that you, or someone else, calls the emergency services immediately. Ideally you need to be able to know how to deliver chest compressions by pushing down firmly in the centre of the chest and then releasing, with a regular motion. You can buy training tools or lessons from companies such as Defibrillators UK in order to be prepared for these eventualities.
Choking
If someone nearby has started choking on food, or a small object, then there are ways you can help. There are many different methods and manoeuvres that can be used to dislodge something stuck in someone’s throat, however, don’t try anything that you don’t know how to do. In most cases, the best way to stop someone from choking is to hit the person on their back, between the shoulder blades. Be careful not to do this too hard, especially if you have a lot of arm strength. If you’re worried about doing this yourself, don’t stop and think, just call the emergency services.
We have covered four of the most important first aid tips for women, especially for those with younger children. We hope you never have to use them, but at least now you’re in the know if you do.
