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First Aid Safety. Basics of First Aid . Hypothermia Heat Stress. Workplace First Aid.
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First Aid Safety Basics of First Aid . Hypothermia Heat Stress
Workplace First Aid Tragedy has struck your co-worker. He lies on the floor, unconscious. The first few minutes after an accident are critical for his survival. If you can provide prompt and proper first aid while waiting for medical assistance to arrive, you greatly increase your co-worker's chance for a complete recovery.
First, make sure the person is breathing. If necessary, and if you are trained, start the ABCs of first aid – Airways, Breathing and Circulation. This may include either rescue breathing or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Be prepared to treat every victim for shock because it can be a life threatening condition. Look for symptoms such as pale, clammy skin and rapid, shallow breathing. Make the person comfortable, either lying down or in a semi-sitting position, and keep him warm. 4 n
If Bleeding Remember The 3 P’s • Position the limb higher than • the heart and apply pressure • on the wound • Position the person lying down, To slow or stop the bleeding Your Text here • Protect yourself from • contact with blood Text Text
Broken Bones Elevate the limb slightly if possible and apply a wrapped ice pack on the swelling Support in a comfortable position — using pillows or rolled blankets. Don't move the person unless he is in immediate danger.
Burns t • Soak small heat burns in cool water for 20 minutes and protect with a light, lint-free dressing. • Serious burns can be fatal and need prompt medical assistance. With all burns, don't break blisters, don't apply oil, lotions, butter, or ice and don't remove charred or melted clothing. • For burns caused by chemicals, immediately place the person into an emergency shower. Make sure the victim continues showering for a minimum of 15 minutes while he removes all of his clothing.
Frostbite And Hypothermia Hazards The air temperature doesn't have to be particularly low to cause hypothermia — just getting wet and chilled can do the same thing. Hypothermia is a dangerous lowering of the body's temperature by exposure to cold or wet conditions. Hypothermia and frostbite can be two of the serious consequences of working outdoors in winter weather
Chemical eye injuries should be irrigated for at least 20 minutes in an eye wash and while the person is being transported to medical aid. . A puncture wound to the chest or lungs is life threatening injury. Quickly seal the wound by placing your protected hand, plastic, foil, or a credit card over the injury. Have someone else send for medical assistance. Place the person in a comfortable semi-sitting position.
Loss of consciousness Inability to think straight or speak coherently Irrational behavior Poor coordination Chills and shivering Signs and Symptoms of Hypothermia
Prevention of Hypothermia • Dress warmly. Wear a hat, waterproof boots and gloves. Dress in layers so you can add or remove clothing as the temperature changes or you get warmed up. • Keep your clothing dry. Put on waterproof gear before you get wet. Carry replacement clothing, such as socks, in case your clothing does get wet or sweaty. • Eat regular meals with enough carbohydrates and fats so that your body can keep producing the heat you need.
It is an injury which occurs when the body tissue freezes. Frostbite Fingers, toes, face and ears most likely damaged. Skin numb, giving it a white and waxy appearance. If frostbitten, it is better to have it thawed at a hospital
Frostbite Do not thaw the tissue if there is a chance it will be refrozen before you reach safety. Do not use hot water or direct heat. If medical help is far away, warm the frostbitten area gradually with body heat or tepid water Do not rub the affected area with your hands Do not thaw the tissue if there is a chance it will be refrozen before you reach safety. Medical Considerations
Carry spare mittens, liners and socks in case yours become wet Keep all of the extremities covered Check for frostbite by making sure you can move your fingers and toes Prevention of Frostbite Make sure you can still feel your feet and hands Gloves and footwear should be snug, not tight.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature Heat Stroke Temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, body is unable to cool down
2 3 4 1 Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F) 1 Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating) Rapid, strong pulse and nausea Throbbing headache and dizziness
Heat Exhaustion • Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. • Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, those with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment.
WHAT STEPS CAN BE TAKEN TO COOL THE BODY DURING HEAT EXHAUSTION
Heat Cramps • Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms – usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs – that may occur in association with strenuous activity. • People who sweat a lot during strenuous activity are prone to heat cramps. This sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture.
Workplace allergies are on the rise. They can be triggered by substances such as mold, dust, natural rubber latex and others. Knowing how to recognize and deal with a severe allergic reaction - called anaphylaxis - can save a life. Workplace Allergies
Swelling of lips, tongue, mouth, face, and ears A tingling sensation in the mouth or throat Wheezing and or difficulty breathing Blue or purple skin color Sudden severe hives Signs and Symptoms Allergic Reaction
Persons with allergies may wish to inform the first aid attendants and co-workers of the condition so everyone can respond more quickly in an emergency. Supervisors should definitely be made aware of any allergic condition you may have. If you suspect a severe allergic reaction, call for emergency help immediately. Keep the victim quiet and in a comfortable position. Look for a medical alert bracelet which may tell of allergies. If the victim stops breathing, administer artificial respiration if you know how and call for help immediately.