First Aid 1.0

by

Mr. Smith

 

First aide is what the name emplies. It is not a substitute for care by a professional, but rather a temporary fix. However, the chance of survival is greatly increased in a combat situation. Further information can be found at your local library, Red Cross, on internet, etc. It is your obligation to learn more. Lastly, practice makes perfect, have the guys, taking turns as casualty/rescuer, go over a situation at the next meeting.

 

Evaluating Casualties

 

    1. Check for Responsiveness.

      2. Ask him "hey, you ok."

       

    2. Check for Breathing

      3. Look to see if his chest is rising/falling, or fog on a mirror.

      Listen to his inhale/exhale

       

    3. Check for Pulse

      4. Take his pulse, arm, neck, etc.

       

    4. Check for Bleeding

      5. Do a sweep using your hands on his body.

       

    5. Treat for Shock

      6. See attached article

    6. Check for Fractures

      7. First ask the casualty if he has any, then look for them.

       

    7. Check for Burns

      8. Should have been noticed when sweeping the body for bleeding.

       

    8. Check for head injuries

Visual inspect.

 

Three Basic Life-Saving Steps

 

    1. Start the Breathing
    2. Stop the Bleeding
    3. Protect the Wound

Treatment for shock

Shock is caused by a depression of the body's attempt to shut down systems so it can save energy and repair itself. Sometimes the body goes to far and goes into shock. Shock is more likely to develop in severe injuries, but may result from minor one. It can kill, even if the injuries are not fatal.

The symptoms of shock may include any or all of the following:

    1. Sweaty but cool, pale skin

    2. Restlessness, nervousness

    3. Thirst

    4. Confusion (or loss of awareness)

    5. Rapid breathing and pulse rate

    6. Blotchy or bluish skin (especially around the mouth and lips)

    7. Nausea and/or vomiting

When treating a casualty assume that shock is present or will occur shortly. By waiting untill actual signs/symptoms of shock are noticeable, the rescuer may jeopardize the victim's life. Also, remember the actual condition of the victim, for example: you would not move a casualty if suspected fractures have not been splinted.

Treatment for shock:

  1. Move the casualty to cover, if available and the situation permits it.

  2. Lay the victim on his back. A victim in shock after suffering a heart attack, chest wound, or breathing difficulty, may breath easier in a sitting position. If so, allow him to sit upright, but monitor the casualty carefully in case his conditions worsens.

  3. Elevate the victim's feet higher than the level of the heart using a stable object such as a box, field pack, or rolled up clothing.

  4. Loosen clothing or equipment wherever it may be binding. But, DO NOT remove chemical protective equipment.

  5. Prevent the casualty from chilling or overheating. The key is to maintain normal body temperature. In cold weather, place a blanket or other like item over the casualty to keep him warm and under him to prevent chilling. In hot weather, place the victim in the shade and avoid excessive covering.

  6. Calm the victim. Throughout the entire procedure of treating and caring for a victim the rescuer should reassure the casualty and keep him calm.

  7. During the treatment/prevention of shock, do not give the casualty any food or drink.

  8. If you must leave the casualty or if he is unconscious, turn his head to the side to prevent him from choking should he vomit.

  9. Seek medical aid.