Life-saving first aid tips everyone should know 

Dr.Sumit Mor, 3 mins read

Emergency - the word brings fear to our minds, but emergencies can strike anytime, and most of the time, it is without any warning. They need urgent attention. Whether it is a cut, burn, or something as serious as a cardiac arrest, if we know what to do and how, it can make all the difference between life and death. Here we explore the essential first aid techniques everyone should know, which will help you respond effectively before professional help arrives. 

Some of the emergency procedures that should be known to everyone: 

1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

CPR is one of the most crucial first-aid skills, especially in cases of cardiac arrest or drowning. In such cases, immediately call for emergency medical help. When a person stops breathing or has no pulse, immediate CPR can keep oxygenated blood flowing to vital organs.

• For adults: Lay the person on their back and open their airways. If they are not breathing, start by doing 30 chest compressions. Then give 2 rescue breaths, repeat this process until an ambulance arrives. For chest compressions, place the undersurface of your hand on the center of the chest, interlock the other hand on top, and press hard and fast—about two inches deep and clocking 100–120 compressions per minute.
• For children or infants: Use less pressure and one hand (or two fingers for infants). One can use alternate compressions with gentle rescue breaths if trained.

2. Choking

Choking can block airways and cause fatality. If someone is coughing forcefully, encourage them to keep coughing. If they cannot breathe, speak, or cough, turning blue in the face and grabbing at the throat, perform the Heimlich maneuver. Stand behind the person, wrap your arms around their waist, and make a fist. Place it just above the navel and pull sharply inward and upward. Repeat until the object comes out or the person becomes unresponsive, in which case begin CPR.

3. Bleeding 

Controlling severe bleeding is vital to prevent shock and death. Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to the wound. If blood soaks through, do not remove the first layer—add more cloth on top. For severe limb bleeds, elevate the injured part above heart level. In case of life-threatening bleeding that cannot be controlled, a compression bandage may be applied above the wound, but only as a last resort.

4. Burns

Burns must be handled carefully to prevent infection and scarring. For minor burns, run cool (not cold) water over the area for 10–15 minutes, then cover with a sterile, non-stick dressing. Avoid applying butter, toothpaste, or ice. For severe burns with blisters or charred skin, cover loosely with a clean cloth and seek immediate medical care.

5. Fractures and Sprains 

If a bone fracture is suspected, avoid moving the affected area unnecessarily. Immobilize the limb using a splint made from firm materials like cardboard or rolled towels. Apply an ice pack covered in a cloth to reduce swelling. In cases of deformities that can be seen or open fractures, cover with a clean dressing and call emergency services.

6. Unconsciousness or Fainting  

If someone loses consciousness, check their breathing and pulse. If the person is breathing normally, place them in the recovery position—on their side, with the head leaning slightly back to keep the airway open. If not breathing, start CPR immediately. Loosen tight clothing and ensure good air circulation until help arrives. 

7. Stroke

There are different symptoms that a person can experience during a stroke. Some of the most common symptoms include aphasia, blurry vision, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and confusion, etc. In case anyone around you suffers from a stroke, call emergency services immediately. Ensure that the concerned person is in a safe and comfortable condition, check their breathing,  and apply pressure on any bleeding wounds. 

Conclusion 

First aid isn’t just about medical techniques—it checks our preparedness. Knowing how to handle emergencies ensures that you can act rapidly and effectively in emergencies. By learning these life-saving first aid tips and keeping a well-stocked first aid kit at home, in your car, or at the workplace, you become a vital link in the chain of survival. After all, every second counts when saving a life.