First Aid at Work (Level 3)

COURSE TUTOR: _______________________

House Keeping
 Fire Exits
 Toilets
 Schedule for today
 Mobile phones
 Smoking areas
Content
 Roles and responsibilities of a first aider  Minor injuries
 Assessing an incident  Fracture and dislocation
 Managing an unresponsive casualty  Chest injuries
 The respiratory system  Major illness
 Wounds and bleeding  Other injuries
 Shock  Heat and cold injuries
 Seizures
Task

 Please complete the start of your individual learning plan provided.

 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Learning objectives

The learner will be able to:

 Describe the legislative requirements of a first aider
 Describe your role within your employment as a first aider
 List items you would find in a first aid kit
 Explain how the first aider takes control of the scene of an accident
 Demonstrate how to correctly fill out an accident report form
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Roles of the first aider:

 Preserve Life – Administer immediate effective first aid to a casualty in order to save life.

 Prevent the Condition from Worsening – Recognising and treating the cause will assist with preventing
the condition from worsening.

 Promote Recovery – Administer ongoing treatment and offer constant support until the arrival of
qualified medical assistance.
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Legislative Requirements
First aid within the workplace is governed by legislative requirements:

 The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981

 The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1982
 The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
 RIDDOR Reporting of Injuries Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations.
 The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the first aider will be dependent on specific workplace requirements, these could
include:
 Ensuring the first aid equipment is fit for purpose
 Arriving at the scene
 Ensuring the scene is safe
 Contacting the emergency services
 Prioritising the treatment of casualties
 Clearing up after an incident
 Incident reporting and recording
Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Act 2015 (SARAH)

Courts now have to take into account that defendants may have been acting to help society when an
accident happened.

Designed to help first aiders, volunteers and “good deed doers” who step in heroically in dangerous
circumstances but find themselves in a courtroom if something goes wrong.

legislation.gov.uk express.co.uk
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
First aid equipment

The content of your first aid kits will depend on the assessment of first aid needs that should be conducted.

In December 2011 the British Standards Institute launched the new workplace First Aid Kits (BS 8599-1).
 Contents

Large
Small

Travel
Medium
Leaflet

1
1
1
1
Contents list

1
1
1
1
aider
Medium dressing

1
8
6
4
Large dressing

1
2
2
1
First aid equipment

Triangular bandage

1
4
3
2
Safety pins

2
6

24
12
Eye pads

0
4
3
2

Plasters

10
60
40

100
Wipes
4
40
30
20

Adhesive tape
1
1
1
1

Nitrile gloves
1
9
6

12

(pairs)
Finger dressing
0
4
3
2

Resus face shield

1
2
1
1

Foil blanket
1
3
2
1
Roles and responsibilities of the first

Eyewash (250ml)
1
0
0
0

Burn dressing
1
2
2
1

Safety shears
1
1
1
1

Conforming
1
2
2
1

bandage
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
First aid equipment – Risk Assessment
Low Hazard e.g. offices, shops and libraries

No. of Employees What equipment and personnel do you need?

Fewer than 25 1 small workplace compliant first aid kit and at least
1 appointed person.
25 – 50 1 medium workplace compliant first aid kit and at
least 1 EFAW trained first aider.
More than 50 1 large workplace compliant first aid kit (per 100
people) and at least 1 FAW trained first aider for every
100 employees.
Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
First aid equipment – Risk Assessment
High Hazard e.g. light engineering, food processing, warehousing, extensive work with dangerous
machinery or sharp instruments, construction and chemical manufacture.

No. of Employees What equipment and personnel do you need?

Fewer than 5 1 small workplace compliant first aid kit and at least
1 appointed person.
5 – 50 1 medium workplace compliant first aid kit and at
least 1 EFAW trained first aider.
More than 50 1 large workplace compliant first aid kit (per 50
people) and at least 1 FAW trained first aider for every 50
employees.
Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Arriving at the scene

When arriving at a scene the first aider must:

 Always try to remain calm
 Take charge of the situation
 Conduct a scene survey
 Ensure the safety of yourself, bystanders and others
 Gather information from bystanders and the casualty
 Fully brief the emergency services
Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Contacting the emergency services

First aiders with ether contact the emergency services themselves or instruct a bystander to do so.

Contacting the emergency services at the earliest opportunity is paramount.

When contacting the emergency services on ether 999 or 112, it is important that the information gives is
clear, concise and sufficient.
Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Prioritising the treatment of the casualties

After conducting a primary survey and contacting the emergency services, casualties should be placed in an
order of priority and treated accordingly. This order is as follows:

Breathing Bleeding Bones or Burns Other conditions

 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Minimising infection

It is important that as the first aider you do not transmit infections to your casualty or indeed contract
infections from your casualty.
To assist in minimising the risk of infection and cross-contamination there are various precautions that can
be taken:
 Having good personal hygiene
 Ensuring that barrier devices are used
 Covering any open cuts or sores
How to wash your hands..
 Minimising contact with blood or bodily fluids
 Changing gloves between casualties
 Washing hands thoroughly after removing gloves
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Barrier devices

Barrier devices are essential equipment and help to eradicate the spread of infection and cross
contamination.

Barrier devices place a barrier between the first aider and the casualty

Barrier devices include:

 Nitrile powder free cloves
 Face shields
 Pocket masks
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Clearing up after an incident

Once an incident has been handed over to qualified medical assistance, then the clearing up process must
commence.
This process consists of the following:
 Ensure that all used items such as; bandages, gloves etc. are placed in a yellow clinical waste bag or
something similar.
 Ensure that the area where any blood or other bodily fluids have been spilt is thoroughly cleaned.
 Restock the first aid kit and replace an other equipment that may have been used during the incident.
 Record and report the incident.
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Incident recording and reporting

After any first aid incident it is important the incident is recorded and reported in full.

Ultimately the employer is responsible for the reporting of accidents however you should be clear on your role
as the first aider in this process.

The accident book should be completed in full and populated with clear and concise information. There may
also be the necessity to inform RIDDOR.

In cases where a public access AED has been used, there may be a requirement to report the event to your
local authority or ambulance service.
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Accident form

The accident form should be filled out with as much detail as possible relating to the incident, including:
 Who was involved
 Specific details of the incident and injury
 Witnesses present
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Accident form

Task
 In pairs choose a casualty and a first aider
 The casualty chooses what injury they have suffered with and how it happened
 The first aider then fills out the accident report form asking the casualty for details relating to the injury
Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Reporting of injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrence regulations (RIDDOR)

RIDDOR is the law that requires employers, and other people in

control of work premises, to report and keep records of:

 Work-related accidents which cause death.

 Work-related accidents which cause certain serious injuries
(reportable injuries).
 Diagnosed cases of certain industrial diseases.
 Certain ‘dangerous occurrences’ (incidents with the potential to
cause harm).
 Roles and responsibilities of the first
aider
Learning outcomes

The learner will be able to:

 Describe the legislative requirements of a first aider
 Describe your role within your employment as a first aider
 List items you would find in a first aid kit
 Explain how the first aider takes control of the scene of an accident
 Demonstrate how to correctly fill out an accident report form
Assessing an incident
Learning objectives

 Describe how to survey a scene of an accident

 Demonstrate how to conduct a primary survey of a casualty
 Distinguish between normal and agonal breathing
 Demonstrate gathering information from the casualty and conduct a secondary survey
 Assessing an incident
Scene survey

Upon arrival at an incident a scene survey must be conducted to ensure the safety of the casualty, any
bystanders and the first aider.
The scene survey should be conducted in the following way:
 Control the situation
 Look for potential hazards
 Assess the situation
 Protect and prioritise
Assessing an incident
Primary survey

Having conducted a scene survey and established that the immediate area is safe from dangers you may
now approach the casualty.

An initial assessment should be conducted on the casualty which is called a primary survey.

The primary survey is a systematic process of approaching, identifying and dealing with immediate and/or
life threatening conditions.

The primary survey can be remembered by the acronym DRABCD

Assessing an incident
DRABCD
Danger Response Airway Breathing Call 999 / Defibrillation
Circulation

Prior to Check the Place the casualty Place your cheek Ask a helper to If an AED arrives,
approaching the casualty for on their back. next to the call for medical switch it on and
casualty, ensure response by Open the airway casualties mouth; assistance. follow the prompts.
the safety of the asking the using the head tilt look, listen and
casualty, yourself casualty if they and chin lift feel for normal Send someone to
and any are ok and tap method. breathing for 10 get an AED if An AED is used in
bystanders. them on their seconds. available and conjunction with
shoulder. start CPR. CPR.
 Assessing an incident
Agonal breathing

In the first few minutes after a cardiac arrest, a casualty maybe barely breathing or taking infrequent slow
noisy gasps.

Do not mistake this for normal breathing, if in any doubt act as if no breathing is present and prepare to
start CPR.
 Assessing an incident
Casualty communication

Clear and effective communication should be used at all times when dealing with a casualty.

A casualty maybe in a distressed or confused state, the first aider should remain calm and consider the
following when dealing with the casualty:
 Gather as much information as possible about the situation, let the casualty explain if possible
 Only speak about facts, not what your opinion is
 Speak clearly and slowly without shouting and maintain eye contact
 Allow the casualty time to think and respond
 Ask the casualty to assist wherever possible (to distract them)
 Assessing an incident
Gathering patient information

Whilst communicating with the casualty it is important to gather as much information about them and the
situation as possible, this will help you the first aider as well as the emergency services when they arrive.

The best way to gather information is to look at the casualties:

 History – uncover as much information about the casualty as possible, information such as; time, location,
nature of the accident, witnesses and injuries sustained. It is also important to find out if the casualty is
taking any prescribed medication and a history of similar injuries or conditions.
 Signs – what you as the first aider can see, smell or hear.
 Symptoms – what the casualty actually feels such as any pain or feeling nauseous or weak.
 Assessing an incident
Gathering patient information

W What happened

H How did it happen

K Known medication/previous injuries/allergies

A Are they wearing a medical alert bracelet or

E Eating time of last meal
chain?
Y You now need to conduct a secondary survey
T The time of the accident/incident

S Sign of injury
 Assessing an incident
Secondary Survey

If the casualty is breathing normally after you check for breathing in your primary survey you should contact
the emergency services and then perform a secondary survey.

This examination will help you as the first aider gather more information from the casualty.

Talk to the casualty throughout the survey to reassure them and to tell you if they have any pain or
discomfort.
 Assessing an incident
Secondary Survey

Head and face

 Inspect the casualties head looking for obvious signs of injury.
 Remove spectacles and gently feel around the head and face for any bleeding, swelling or depressions.
 Look in the ears and nose for signs of bleeding or the presence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
 Gently open the eye lids together and check the pupils for any reaction to light.
 Smell the breath for any distinct odours e.g. alcohol.
 Feel the forehead with the back of your hand to check temperature – does it feel normal?
 Assessing an incident
Secondary Survey

Neck
 Loosen any restrictive clothing.
 Gently feel around the back of the neck and spinal area to check for bleeding, swelling or deformity.
 Check for medical alert necklaces.
 Take the pulse in the neck quickly – Is it fast, slow, irregular? What does this information tell you?
 Assessing an incident
Secondary Survey

Chest and shoulders

 Gently feel around the shoulders to check for signs of deformity and bleeding.
 Check the chest for signs of deformity and bleeding.

Abdomen
 Gently check the abdomen for signs of bleeding, swelling or unnatural softness.
 If you suspect the casualty has any of the above check the stomach for any bruising if possible.
 Assessing an incident
Secondary Survey

Spine
 Check as much of the spine as possible without moving the casualty.
 Feel for any tenderness or deformity as well as signs of bleeding.

Pelvis
 Check the hips and pelvis for deformity, unnatural positioning or bleeding.
 Assessing an incident
Secondary Survey

Legs and feet

 Check the legs and feet for bleeding, unnatural positioning, swelling and deformity.
 Check the pockets for any form of identification, mobile devices which could be used to contact the
emergency services, medication or any other object which may cause discomfort when moving them.

Arms and hands

 Check down the arms feeling for any deformity, bleeding or swelling.
 Check wrists for any medical alert bracelets or tattoos.
 Check wrists and in between fingers for puncture marks from injections.
Assessing an incident
Learning outcomes

 Describe how to survey a scene of an accident

 Demonstrate how to conduct a primary survey of a casualty
 Distinguish between normal and agonal breathing
 Demonstrate gathering information from the casualty and conduct a secondary survey
Managing an unresponsive casualty
Learning objectives

 Demonstrate CPR on an adult, junior and baby casualties

 Describe how to use an AED on a casualty
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Chain of survival

The chance of survival of a casualty who has suffered a cardiac arrest will diminish by around 6-10% with
each passing minute unless action is taken.

The chain of survival is a series of actions, that when put into motion quickly will increase the casualties
odds of survival. If the chain has links broken the odds of survival will be reduced.
Managing an unresponsive casualty
The respiratory system

The respiratory system supplies oxygen to all parts of the body and removes carbon dioxide from the blood
supply. When we inhale we breathe a mixture of:
 Nitrogen (79%)
 Oxygen (20%)
 Other gasses (1%)

When we exhale we breathe out a mixture of:

 Carbon dioxide (4%) ▪ Nitrogen (79%)
 Oxygen (16%) ▪ Other gasses (1%)
Managing an unresponsive casualty
Cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)

CPR is a method of combining chest compressions with effective rescue breaths in order to artificially
circulate blood and to put air into the lungs.

 Cardio Heart
 Pulmonary Lungs
 Resuscitation Revive
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Chest compressions

 Chest compressions should be administered to a casualty who is not breathing normally.

 For an adult, the depth of the chest compressions is 5-6cm (similar to the height of a credit card).

 The rate of compressions should be 100-120 beats per minute.

 30 compressions should be performed before moving onto rescue breathing.

Managing an unresponsive casualty
Rescue breathing

 After completing 30 chest compressions the first aider should then perform 2 rescue breaths

 Each breath should take 1 second to complete.

 Administering 2 rescue breaths should take no longer than 5 seconds to complete.

Managing an unresponsive casualty
Adult basic lift support and automated external defibrillation
Look, listen and feel
Check for danger Check for response Open the airway for normal breathing
for 10 seconds

Call an ambulance
Administer CPR –
Continue with CPR Give 2 effective (999/112), send
start with 30 chest
30:2 rescue breaths someone to get an
compressions
AED
Managing an unresponsive casualty
Child and infant basic lift support
Look, listen and feel
Check for danger Check for response Open the airway for normal breathing
for 10 seconds

Give 30 chest
compressions Give 5 initial rescue Ask a helper to call
Continue with CPR
followed by 2 breaths an ambulance
30:2
effective rescue (999/112)
breaths
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Automated external defibrillator (AED)

The AED is used in conjunction with effective CPR and will prompt you to do
actions.

The AED is completely safe to use by anyone as it does not require any training
to be able to use and will not progress to the next prompt until it has detected
that the step has been completed.
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Automated external defibrillator (AED)

Ensure nobody The AED will

Attach the touches the The AED will deliver the shock
Follow the voice
electrode pads to casualty whilst the decide if a shock is automatically or
Switch on the AED and/or visual
the casualties bare AED is analysing advised or not prompt you to
prompts
chest the casualties advised press the shock
heart rhythm button
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Automated external defibrillator (AED)

Leave the AED turned on until further medical assistance arrives as it provides a history of the casualty to
the medical professionals.

Do not remove the electrode pads from the casualty or turn off the AED even if the casualty regains
consciousness.

The AED will analyse the casualties heart rhythm every 2 minutes and advise a shock if necessary.
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Automated external defibrillator (AED)
Continue until
casualty starts
to breath
Call 999/112 & normally
send for an AED
Shock
Managing an unresponsive advised
casualty 1 shock

Commence CPR
Open airway & until AED is AED will assess Continue 30:2
check breathing turned on and heart rhythm for 2 mins
attached
No shock
advised
Unresponsive
 Managing an unresponsive casualty
Using and AED on children

Children between 1-8 years old

An AED is very unlikely to advise a inappropriate shock for a child. Ideally the AED will state that it is suitable
to be used on paediatric casualties. If no such AED is available a standard AED maybe used. If you are still
unsure seek professional medical advice (999/112).

Children under 1 years old

The AED is not recommended for use for children under 1 years old. Seek professional medical advice if you
are unsure (999/112).
Managing an unresponsive casualty
Recording use of the AED

The Resuscitation council (UK) has previously been collecting a database of AED events across the UK
however this has now stopped.

A database has now been set up in partnership with the University of Warwick.

AED Resuscitation online form..

Managing an unresponsive casualty
Learning outcomes

 Demonstrate CPR on an adult, junior and baby casualties

 Describe how to use an AED on a casualty
The respiratory system
Learning objectives

 Describe the actions to take to help a casualty who is choking

 The respiratory system
Obstructed airway

An obstructed airway is the complete or partial blockage of the airway which leads to the lungs. An airway
can be blocked in various ways:
 Foreign objects
 Foods
 Allergic reactions
 Asthma
 Blood and vomit
 Infections
 The respiratory system
Choking casualties

A casualty will ether have a mild or severe airway obstruction. The severity of the blockage will determine
how to treat the casualty.

A casualty who is choking will be:

 Gasping for air
 In distress
 Difficulty breathing or speaking
 Grasping the throat
 Red in the face
 The respiratory system
Choking casualties

A casualty with a partial blockage can be helped by:

 Lean the casualty forward
 Encouraging the casualty to cough

This will normally clear the partial blockage.

 The respiratory system
Choking casualties

If this procedure does not work then more aggressive action is necessary, follow the following procedure:

Abdominal Thrust
 Stand the casualty and put both arms around the casualties abdomen just below the rib cage.
 With one hand clench your fist and place it between the naval and rib cage.
 Grasp this hand with your other hand and pull sharply inwards and upwards.
 Repeat this up to 5 times and assess the casualties condition, if the casualties condition has not improved
call 999/112 and repeat the cycles of back slaps and abdominal thrusts until qualified medical assistance
arrives.
 The respiratory system
Choking adult and child flow chart

Encourage the Call an ambulance

casualty to cough Assess the Assess the 999/112 and
and lean forward. Give up to 5 back Give up to 5
casualties casualties continue back
blows. abdominal thrusts.
condition. condition. blows and
Shout for help! abdominal thrusts.
 The respiratory system
Choking infant flow chart

Encourage the Call an ambulance

casualty to cough Assess the Give up to 5 chest Assess the 999/112 and
and lean forward. Give up to 5 back
casualties thrusts using 2 casualties continue back
blows.
condition. fingers. condition. blows and chest
Shout for help! thrusts.
The respiratory system
Hypoxia
Hypoxia is when the tissue of the body is starved of oxygen.

Recognition Treatment
 Confused and distressed  Maintain airway
 Cyanosis (blue colouration of skin)  Call for an ambulance 999/112
 Hyperventilation  Calm and reassure casualty
 Sweating  Monitor constantly and be prepared to perform
CPR
 Nausea
 General weakness
The respiratory system
Learning outcomes

 Describe the actions to take to help a casualty who is choking

 Wounds and bleeding
Learning objectives

 Identify the differences in types of wounds

 Describe the effects of blood loss
 Demonstrate applying a dressing to a casualty with a minor bleed
 Wounds and bleeding
The circulatory system

The circulatory system consists of the heart which pumps blood to the entire body through blood vessels. A
failure of this system will be life threating to the casualty.

Life threatening conditions include: Normal beats per

minute
 Heart attack Adult:
60-100
 Angina Child: 90-110
 Blood clots (Inc. stroke) Infant: 110-130
Wounds and bleeding
Types of wounds

Laceration (tear) Abrasion (graze)

A wound that can be caused by tearing the skin A superficial wound caused by a scrape. This is
resulting in a jagged edge wound. This could be caused by falling or sliding on surfaces. Blood loss
caused by broken bottles or cans. The severity of from this type of wound is minimal and will tend to
blood loss will be dependent on the size of the bleed from capillaries and therefore ooze out of the
laceration. wound.
Wounds and bleeding
Types of wounds

Incision (cut) Puncture (piercing)

Normally caused by a sharp object such as a knife, Caused by an object puncturing or piercing the skin
scissors or piece of glass. The wound will be a clean such as a needle, shard of glass or nail. A puncture
slice and depending on the severity may result in wound does not cause excessive bleeding as the
severe blood loss. wound closes around the foreign object. There is a
high risk of infection and if severe could cause
internal damage.
Wounds and bleeding
Types of wounds

Embedded (penetrating) Contusion (bruise)

Caused by a knife or bullet entering the body. The Normally classes as a minor injury and will heal
object passes through the skin and causes internal without treatment. A contusion is formed when
damage. There could be severe internal or external damaged is formed when blood vessels are
blood loss with this type of wound as well as a high damaged underneath the skin caused by a blow
risk of infection from a blunt object. If the cause is more severe
such as a fall there could be extensive internal
damage
Wounds and bleeding
Example - Laceration
Wounds and bleeding
Example - Incision
Wounds and bleeding
Example - embedded object
 Wounds and bleeding
Types of bleeding

Arterial bleeding
This is a bleed from an artery and will be bright red in colour, the blood will be under higher pressure and
will pump in time with the casualties heart beat.

Venous bleeding
This bleed is from a vein and will be dark red in colour, the blood will be under lower pressure and will gush
from the wound.

Capillary bleeding
This bleed is from damaged capillaries and will slowly ooze from the wound.
Wounds and bleeding
Blood loss
Signs & Symptoms 10% Blood loss 20% Blood loss 30% Blood loss 40% Blood loss

Lowered level of response

Response level Normal Nausea & signs of shock Unresponsive

Cyanosis (blue/grey Extremely pale, cold &

Skin colour/feel Normal Pale/cool appearance of nose, ears,
clammy
lips), cold & clammy

Breathing Normal Slightly raised Rapid Gasping for breath

Pulse rate Normal Slightly raised Rapid weak pulse Undetectable

Wounds and bleeding
Blood loss
 Wounds and bleeding
Major bleeding

Treatment
 Ensure you wear personal protective equipment e.g. nitrile gloves.
 Sit or lay the casualty down on the floor is possible.
 Examine the wound but do not attempt to remove any foreign objects.
 Apply direct pressure onto the wound and try to stop the bleeding.
 Dress the wound with a sterile dressing.
 If the wound bleeds through the dressing remove it completely and stop the bleeding before applying
another dressing.
 Call for an ambulance if necessary 999/112 and treat the casualty for shock.
 Wounds and bleeding
Embedded foreign objects

Treatment
 Apply dressings to ether side of the embedded object if possible to secure it in place and prevent further
damage.
 Apply a larger dressing over the top of the side dressings and embedded object if possible.
 Secure the dressing in place e.g. elevation sling.
 Call for an ambulance 999/112 and treat the casualty for shock.
Wounds and bleeding
Amputation
Amputation can cause severe damage to bone, tendons, muscles as well as loss of blood.

Treatment
 Put on personal protective equipment e.g. nitrile gloves
 Treat bleeding be applying pressure to the wound (direct and indirect) and treat for shock.
 Call for an ambulance 999/112.
 Dress the casualties wound and place the amputated part in cling film or plastic bag. Write the casualties
name and details of the body part and place on ice.
 Wounds and bleeding
Learning outcomes

 Identify the differences in types of wounds

 Describe the effects of blood loss
 Demonstrate applying a dressing to a casualty with a minor bleed
Shock, seizures and minor injuries
Learning objectives

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who is having a seizure
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a contusion
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a suspected sprain or strain
 Describe the treatment for a minor cut or graze
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a burn
 Describe the treatment for a foreign body in the eye
Shock
Physiological shock (circulatory shock)
Circulatory shock is a condition that occurs when the body’s vital organs such as the heart and brain are
deprived of oxygen .due to a problem with the circulatory system e.g. blood loss, heart attach & poisoning.

Recognition Treatment
 Associated injury  Treat the cause of shock if applicable
 Pale, cyanosis, cold and clammy skin  Lay the casualty on their back and raise their legs
above the level of the heart
 Rapid weak pulse
 Loosen any tight clothing and keep warm
 Rapid shallow breathing
 Monitor the casualties airway and breathing
 Nausea and thirst
 Call for an ambulance 999/112
 Do not allow to eat/drink
 Shock
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction which has the potential to be life threatening. It results in rapid
chemical changes in the body and can be caused by a trigger such as; insect stings, foods and medicines.

Recognition Treatment
 Swelling of the mouth, tongue, face and neck  Call for an ambulance 999/112
 Difficulty breathing  Encourage the casualty to use their medication if
applicable
 Red, blotchy and itchy skin
 Sit the casualty down and reassure
 Nausea
 Remove or investigate the trigger
 Anxiety
 Monitor and prepare to perform CPR
 Seizures
Partial seizure
A partial seizure is a brief loss of responsiveness for a few seconds or minutes.

Recognition Treatment
 Staring blankly  Ensure the casualty is safe from harm
 Mood swings  See is the casualty can be laid or sat down
 Feeling of Déjà vu  Stay with the casualty and time the episode
 Tingling sensations  If it is the first time recommend the casualty to
go to hospital or call an ambulance 999/112
 Twitching (face and body)
Seizures
Generalised seizure
The most common and widely recognised generalised seizure is called a tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizure
which affects the body in progressive ways. Prior to suffering a seizure, a casualty may be confused, have
headaches or undergo strange tastes or smells; this is called an ‘aura’.
Recognition – Tonic phase Recognition – Clonic phase
 Convulsions  The limbs make violent jerking movements
 Muscles become rigid  Rolling eyes and crying out
 Arching back  Clenched teeth
 Cyanosis (blue or purple colouration)  Possible loss or bladder and bowel control
 Lack of consciousness
Seizures
Generalised seizure
Treatment
 Ensure the casualties safety by removing dangerous objects which could cause injury
 Remove spectacles and loosen clothing around neck if possible
 Do not restrain the casualty
 Record the time and duration of the seizure
 If the seizure continues (depending on site policy) or there are multiple seizures, call for an ambulance
999/112
 When the seizure stops clear any excessive saliva and check airway, breathing and place into the
recovery position
 Reassure the casualty and be conscious of their embarrassment
 Minor injuries
Contusion (bruises)
A bruise will often be caused by a blunt blow or a violent movement of a joint such as during a fall.

Recognition Treatment
 Swelling  Rest the area where the bruise has developed
 Blue, purple or black colouration  Apply Ice
 Probable cause associated with injury (e.g. stairs)  Compress the area
 Elevate if possible

RICE
 Minor injuries
Sprains and strains
A sprain or strain attributed to activity or playing sport. It is caused by a sharp movement or overstretch to a
muscle or joint.
Recognition Treatment
 Pain, bruising and swelling  Rest the area where the bruise has developed
 Loss of movement  Apply Ice
 Cramps to muscle  Compress the area
 Elevate if possible

RICE
Minor injuries
Minor cuts and grazes
A minor cut or graze will not bleed excessively therefore the main concern is to protect the wound from
infection.

Recognition Treatment
 Will not bleed excessively  Wear appropriate personal protective
equipment. (e.g. nitrile gloves)
 Ooze blood
 Examine the wound for any foreign objects
 Sometimes very painful
 Clean the effected area with a sterile cleansing
wipe
 Apply a sterile dressing to the wound
Minor injuries
Burns and scalds
Causes
 Dry heat Burns are classified into 3 levels of severity:
 Electricity  Superficial burn (1st degree burn)
 Chemicals  Partial-thickness burn (2nd degree burn)
 Extreme cold  Full-thickness burn (3rd degree burn)
 Radiation
 Minor injuries
Superficial burn (1st degree burn)
A superficial burn is where the topmost layer of skin has been burnt. A superficial burn is extremely painful
as the nerve endings are sensitive
Recognition Treatment
 Pain at the site of the injury  Remove the source of heat
 Redness, swelling and tenderness  Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g. gloves)
 Possible blistering  Cool the area of the burn with water for a minimum of 10 mins
 Remove restrictive clothing and jewellery if possible
 Cover the burn with a layer of cling film if possible and seek
medical advice (999/112) if the burn covers more than 5% of the
bodies surface
 Minor injuries
Partial-thickness burn (2nd degree burn)
A partial-thickness burn is where the epidermis and dermis have been burnt to varying degrees. There is a
high risk of infection and possibility of the casualty going into shock.
Recognition Treatment
 Skill will appear raw and swollen  Remove the source of heat
 Wound will be painful  Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g. gloves)
 Blisters that emit a clear fluid  Cool the area of the burn with water for a minimum of 10 mins
maybe present
 Remove restrictive clothing and jewellery if possible
 Cover the burn with a layer of cling film if possible and seek
medical assistance (999/112) if the burn covers more than 1% of
the bodies surface
 Minor injuries
Full-thickness burn (3st degree burn)
A full-thickness burn is where all layers of the dermis and even the subcutaneous layer have been damaged.
This has an very high risk if infection and shock.
Recognition Treatment
 Injury will appear brown or black and often  Remove the source of heat
charred
 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g. gloves)
 Dry and leathery texture
 Limited movement around the effected area  Cool the area of the burn with water for a minimum of 10 mins
 Less pain than superficial burn as nerves  Remove restrictive clothing and jewellery if possible
have been burnt away
 Cover the burn with a layer of cling film if possible and seek
medical assistance immediately (999/112)
Minor injuries
Foreign objects

Foreign objects can cause damage when they enter the body through wounds or orifices such as the nose or
eye. You should seek medical attention unless the injury is extremely minor (e.g. surface dirt in a graze).

Ear and nose treatment

 Do not attempt to remove the object
 Cover with a sterile dressing
 Seek medical attention (999/112) for advice
Minor injuries
Foreign objects
Eye treatment
 Do not allow the casualty to rub their eye
 Lay the casualty down with their head back and ask the casualty to open their eye lids using their hands
and examine the eye
 Flush the eye from the centre outwards using saline solution of fresh running water
 No not allow any of the liquid to run into the other eye
 Cover the eye using a sterile dressing if appropriate

If the object in embedded, cover both the eyes using a sterile dressing to prevent the casualty from
blinking and immediately call for medical assistance (999/112).
Minor injuries
Splinters

Splinters are foreign objects which are embedded into the skin, these foreign objects such as; glass, wood,
plastic or metal.
Treatment
 Wear appropriate P.P.E. (nitrile gloves)
 Examine the object to see if it is possible to remove
 If possible draw the splinter out in the same direction as the entry route
 If the splinter is removed, clean the surrounding area using antiseptic wipe and cover using a sterile dressing

If the object can not be removed, cover using a sterile dressing and advice casualty to
seek medical assistance.
Shock, seizures and minor injuries
Learning outcomes

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who is having a seizure
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a contusion
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a suspected sprain or strain
 Describe the treatment for a minor cut or graze
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a burn
 Describe the treatment for a foreign body in the eye
Fracture and dislocation
Learning objectives

 Outline the types of fractures

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who has a fracture
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a head injury
 Outline the types of head injuries
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a dislocation
Fracture and dislocation
The human skeleton

 The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones

 The skeleton is designed to support and protects the bodies tissue and organs
 Joints connect individual bones and allow movement through muscles which
are attached by tendons
 Fracture and dislocation
Fracture

Fractures are classed into the following:

 Closed – bone has fractured but has not penetrated the skin.
 Open – bone has fractured and penetrated the skin, this has a high
risk of infection and bleeding.
 Complicated – bone has shattered or broken up internally causing
further damage to tendons, blood vessels or organs if moved.
 Green stick – cracking or splintering of the bone.
 Fracture and dislocation
Fracture
A fracture is a chip, crack or break in a bone.

Recognition Treatment
 Pain, swelling, tenderness and  Wear appropriate P.P.E. (e.g. nitrile gloves)
bruising around the site of the
 Treat any bleeding
injury
 Associated bleeding possible in  Immobilise the bone in the position that it is found and most
open fractures comfortable

 Loss of mobility  Call for an ambulance (999/112)

 Nausea, pale, cold clammy skin

Fracture and dislocation
Example - fractures
 Fracture and dislocation
Spinal injury
Spinal injuries are very serious as the they may cause
paralysis or even death. 7
Cervical

12
Thoracic

5 Lumbar

5 Fused
Sacral
 Fracture and dislocation
Spinal injury
Spinal injuries are very serious as the they may cause paralysis or even death.

Recognition Treatment
 Unusual position of the head or  Call for medical assistance (999/112)
body
 Keep the casualty in the position that you found them and
 Pain at the site of the injury immobilise the head and neck
 Lack of mobility  Reassure the casualty and ask them to remain still
 Weakness and tingling sensations  Keep the casualty warm
 Loss of bowl or bladder control  Keep monitoring the casualties airway and breathing
 Signs of shock  Be prepared to perform basic life support
 Fracture and dislocation
Head injury

Head injuries have the potential to be life threatening and therefore casualties should always be examined
by qualified medical personnel.

Head injuries are classes into the following:

 Concussion
 Compression
 Fractured skull
 Stroke
Fracture and dislocation
Concussion
Concussion is the shaking of the brain caused by a blow to the head which causes a temporary disturbance
of normal brain activity.
Recognition Treatment
 Possible loss of consciousness  Treat any bleeding
 Dizziness and nausea  Call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Headache  Lay the casualty down on a flat surface and raise the head and
shoulders
 Brief loss of memory
 Monitor the casualty and be prepared to carry out basic life
 Blurred vision
support
Fracture and dislocation
Compression
Compression is a build up of pressure on the brain caused by accumulation of blood or swelling.

Recognition Treatment
 Intense headache  Treat any bleeding
 Drowsiness  Call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Unequal pupil sizes  Lay the casualty down on a flat surface and raise the head and
shoulders
 Slow, strong pulse
 Monitor the casualty and be prepared to carry out basic life
 Weakness or paralysis down one side
support
of the body
 Noisy breathing
 Fracture and dislocation
Fractured skull
Can ether be open or closed; caused by a blow to the head.

Recognition Treatment
 Associated wound  Treat any bleeding
 Tenderness and pain  Call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Depression or deformity of the skull  Lay the casualty down on a flat surface and raise the head and
shoulders
 Bruising and swelling at the site of the
injury  Monitor the casualty and be prepared to carry out basic life
support
 Presence of cerebral spinal fluid from
ears and nose
Fracture and dislocation
Stroke
A stroke is ether short term or permanent damage to the brain and body. If you suspect a stroke you must
act FAST.
Recognition Treatment
 FACE – has the face dropped on one side  Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
 ARM – can the person raise both arms?  Lay casualty down with head and shoulders raised
 SPEECH – can the person speak clearly and  If unconscious place in recovery position
understand what you say?
 Loosen any restrictive clothing
 TIME to call 999/112 – early treatment can
 Monitor airway and breathing and be prepared to
help prevent further damage
perform basic life support
Fracture and dislocation
Dislocation
A dislocation occurs when a joint becomes displaced or misaligned. A dislocations are often caused by a
sudden impact to the joint.
Recognition Treatment
 Pain, redness and swelling  Immobilise and support in the position found
 Loss of movement  Allow the casualty to get in a comfortable position
 Deformity  Call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Treat for shock if necessary
Fracture and dislocation
Example - dislocation
Fracture and dislocation
Learning outcomes

 Outline the types of fractures

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who has a fracture
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a head injury
 Outline the types of head injuries
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with a dislocation
 Chest injuries and major illness
Learning objectives

 Describe chest injuries a casualty may suffer with

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from a heart attack
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who is suffering from angina
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from hypoglycaemia or
hyperglycaemia
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who has been poisoned
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from an asthma attack
 Chest injuries
Types of chest injury

Chest injuries are serious injuries and can be life threatening.

Types of chest injuries include:

 Rib fracture
 Flail chest
 Penetrating chest wound
Chest injuries
Rib fracture
Fractures of ribs can cause severe pain and panic. Middle ribs are more commonly broken or fractured.

Recognition Treatment
 Pain when breathing or moving  Allow the casualty to adopt the most comfortable position
 Grating sound when moving or  Seek medical attention immediately
breathing
 Chest injuries
Flail chest
Flail chests is a life threatening condition, are caused by blunt trauma or underlying medical conditions. It
occurs when a segment of the ribcage breaks under extreme stress which then becomes detached from the
rest of the chest wall.
Recognition Treatment
 Pain and bruising  Protect the underlying lung
 Grazes and sign of seat belt trauma  Minimise movement
 Palpitations  Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
 Chest injuries
Penetrating chest wound
Caused by gun shot, knife wound or other sharp objects which could penetrate the chest. Id there is a hole
in the chest wall, air enters the cavity with each breath and becomes trapped. This trapped air builds up
pressure as the amount increases and may collapse the lung causing severe breathing problems.
Recognition Treatment
 Visible open wound  Call an ambulance immediately (999/112)
 Sucking sound as the air enters the  Wear appropriate P.P.E (e.g. nitrile gloves)
chest
 Do not remove embedded objects
 Difficulty breathing
 Lay the casualty in a comfortable position and leave the chest
 Blood bubbling from the wound wound open and exposed. Control localised bleeding with
direct pressure
 Casualty maybe coughing up blood
 Treat for shock and be prepared to perform
basic life support
Major illness
The heart
From the body

To the lungs To the lungs

From the body

Major illness
Heart attack
Recognition Treatment
 Tightness and/or pain in the chest (mild  Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
or severe)
 Sit the casualty down with knees raised in a W-position
 Casualty clutching the chest
 Loosen any restrictive clothing, keep the casualty warm and
 Possible spreading of pain to the arms, comfortable
neck and back
 Monitor the casualties airway and breathing and be prepared
 Dizziness or light headed feeling to perform basic life support
 Possible shortness of breath
 Nausea, sick and have cold sweats
 Major illness
Angina

Recognition
 Tightness and/or pain in the chest (mild or severe)
 Casualty clutching the chest
 Possible spreading of pain to the arms, neck and back
 Possible shortness of breath
 Nausea, sick and have cold sweats
 Only lasts up to 15 minutes unlike a heart attack
Major illness
Angina
Treatment
 Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
 Sit the casualty down with knees raised in a W-position
 Loosen any restrictive clothing, keep the casualty warm and
comfortable
 Ask casualty for their history and ascertain if they have been
diagnosed with angina
 Encourage them to take their medication (usually GTN spray,
Glyceryl trinatrate)
 Monitor the casualties airway and breathing and be prepared to
perform basic life support
 Angina Heart Attack
Sudden, usually during exertion, stress or Sudden, can occur at rest.
Onset
extreme weather.
Vice-like squashing pain. Vice-like squashing pain.
Pain ‘Dull’, ‘tightness’ or ‘pressure’. ‘Dull’, ‘tightness’ or ‘pressure’.
Can be mistaken for indigestion. Can be mistaken for indigestion.

Central chest. Can radiate into Central chest. Can radiate into arms, neck, jaw,
Location of Pain
arms, neck, jaw, back, shoulders. back, shoulders.

Duration 3 – 8 Minutes, rarely longer. Usually longer than 30 minutes.

Skin Pale, may be sweaty. Pale, grey colour. May sweat profusely.

Variable. Often becomes Variable. Often becomes

Pulse irregular, missing beats. irregular, missing beats.

Other signs and Shortness of breath, Shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, vomiting,
symptoms weakness, anxiety. sense of ‘impending doom’.

Factors giving Resting, reducing stress, GTN medication may give

relief taking ‘GTN’ medication. partial or no relief.
 Major illness
Diabetes
Diabetes is caused by a failures of the bodies ability to produce insulin which regulates the blood sugar
levels.

Insulin Sugar
 Major illness
Hypoglycaemia
This is caused when the blood sugar level is too low.

Recognition Treatment
 Blurred vision  Sit the casualty down, calm and reassure
 Hunger  Ask the casualty to take glucose tablets, sugar or sugary drinks
 Tired, confused and feeling faint  If there is no improvement in the casualties condition call for
an ambulance (999/112)
 Increased heart rate
 Monitor the casualties condition, if the casualty becomes
 Headache
unconscious be prepared to carry out basic life support
 Tingling sensations
 Noticeable change in personality
 Major illness
Hyperglycaemia
This is caused when the blood sugar level is too high.

Recognition Treatment
 Sweet fruity smelling breath  Sit the casualty down, calm and reassure
 Increased need to urinate  Encourage the casualty to use their medication
 Increased thirst  If they have not been previously been diagnosed with
diabetes then call form medical assistance (999/112)
 Dry mouth
 Monitor the casualties condition, if the casualty becomes
 Loss of appetite
unconscious be prepared to carry out basic life support
 Tiredness and confused
 Major illness
Poison
A poison is a foreign substance that enters the body by means of ingestion inhalation, absorption or
injection which will interfere the normal bodies function.
Recognition Treatment
 Pains in the stomach  Call for ambulance (999/112)
 Impaired vision  Ensure the scene is safe
 Increased/decreased heart rate  Remove the cause or remove the casualty from the scene
 Smell of fumes or chemicals  Identify the poison if possible and provide the source to the
ambulance crew when they arrive
 Burns and rashes
 Be prepared to carry out basic life support
 Nausea and vomiting
 Difficulty in breathing
 Major illness
Asthma
Asthma is a condition that affects the airway by inflaming it making it difficult to breathe. There are many
triggers of asthma which include; dust, pollen and pet hair.
Recognition Treatment
 Breathlessness  Sit the casualty down on a chair or floor away from the cause
of the attack and let them get in a comfortable position
 Wheezing
 Encourage the casualty to take their medication (inhaler)
 Tightness around the chest
 Calm and reassure the casualty
 Bouts of coughing
 If the attack is prolonged call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Cyanosis (blue lips, ears and nose)
 Be prepared to carry out basic life support
 May be unconscious
 Major illness
Hyperventilation (HVS)
Hyperventilation syndrome (HVS) is a name given to a collection of physical and emotional symptoms,
largely brought about by hyperventilation. This happens when we over-breathe.
Recognition Treatment
 Breathlessness / fast breathing  Sit the casualty down on a chair or floor and let them get in a
comfortable position
 Tightness around the chest
 Calm and reassure the casualty
 Tingling (e.g. in fingers, arms, mouth)
 Encourage the casualty to slow their breathing
 Muscle stiffness
 If the attack is prolonged call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Trembling in hands
 Dizziness, blurred vision, faintness
 headaches
 Chest injuries and major illness
Learning outcomes

 Describe chest injuries a casualty may suffer with

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from a heart attack
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who is suffering from angina
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from hypoglycaemia or
hyperglycaemia
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty who has been poisoned
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from an asthma attack
Heat, cold and other injuries
Learning objectives

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from hypothermia
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from frost bite
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from heat exhaustion
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from heat stroke
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with abdominal injuries
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with crush injuries
 Heat and cold injuries
Hypothermia
When the body is exposed to prolonged cold caused by weather, water etc. the bodies core temperature will
drop. If the bodies core temperature drops below 35°C then the onset of hypothermia will occur.
Recognition Treatment
 Pale, cold skin  Remove the casualty from the source of the cold
 Shivering at onset then the muscles will  Cover the casualty with blankets or ensure the room is warm
stiffen as the condition gets worse (approx. 25°C)
 Lethargy  If the casualty is outdoors insulate the casualty from the
ground
 Breathing, speech and pulse slowing
 Give warm drinks
 Disorientation and confusion
 Monitor their condition
 Diminishing level of response leading to
unconsciousness and death  Call for medical assistance (999/112) if there
is no improvement or is elderly or young
 Heat and cold injuries
Frostbite
Frostbite is a serious medical condition which normally affects the extremities (fingers and toes) by causing
damage to the skin due to freezing, this will eventually cause the skin to die.
Recognition Treatment
 Prolonged exposure to extremely cold  Remove the casualty from the source of the cold
conditions
 Use body heat to warm extremities (e.g. hands under arm
 Pins and needles in the first stages of pits)
frostbite
 Cover the body and extremities with blankets
 Hardening and stiffening of the skin
 Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
becoming painful
 Skin will become purple/black and
extremely painful in the later stages of
frostbite
 Heat and cold injuries
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is caused by the bodies core temperature rising above 37°C. In attempt to cool down,
excessive sweating occurs causing the body to loose vital fluids and salts.
Recognition Treatment
 Hot flushed skin  Move the casualty to a cool place
 Excessive sweating  Give the casualty water to rehydrate
 Fatigue  Remove any excessive clothing
 Headache, nausea and vomiting  Monitor the casualty’s response levels
 Rapid pulse  Call for medical assistance (999/112)
 Confusion
 Urinating less (urine dark in colour)
Heat and cold injuries
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is when the hypothalamus (the bodies temperature regulator) ceases working and the body can
not cool down through normal actions such as sweating. The core temperature rises above 40°C which is
very dangerous.

Recognition Treatment
 High temperature and dry skin  Move the casualty to a cool place
 Nausea, dizziness and vomiting  Call for medical assistance immediately (999/112)
 Intense headache  Give the casualty water to rehydrate
 Lower response levels  Try to cool the skin by applying a damp towel or spraying with
water
 Rapid pulse and breathing
 Be prepared to carry out basic life support
 Muscle cramps
 Possibly unconscious
 Unconsciousness / fitting
Confused / restless
Heat Stroke Headache, dizzy, uncomfortable
Strong bounding pulse
Flushed dry skin, hot to touch

Cramps in stomach / arms / legs

Heat Exhaustion Pale sweaty skin
Nausea / loss of appetite

Normal Body Temperature

Shivering

Fatigue, slurred speech

Confusion, forgetfulness

Mild Hypothermia Shivering stops, muscle rigidity

Very slow, very weak pulse
Noticeable drowsiness

Severe reduction in response levels

Unconsciousness
Dilated pupils
Pulse undetectable

Severe Hypothermia Appearance of death

Death
Other injuries
Blunt abdominal trauma
Common in motor vehicle accidents due to seat belts and can also be caused by punches etc. There is a
concern that internal organs maybe damaged from the injury.
Recognition Treatment
 Abdominal pain  Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
 Bruising and swelling  Wear appropriate P.P.E. (e.g. nitrile gloves)
 Abrasions  Gather as much information as possible
 Nausea and vomiting  Monitor the airway and breathing
 Possible blood in the urine  Try and lay the casualty down with their knees raised, if it is
not possible let the casualty sit in a comfortable position
 Signs of shock
 Treat for shock and be prepared to carry out
basic life support
Other injuries
Penetrating abdominal trauma
A penetrating abdominal trauma occurs when a foreign object pierces the skin and enters the abdomen.
This can cause severe damage to internal organs and blood vessels.
Recognition Treatment
 Visible associated wound  Call for an ambulance immediately (999/112)
 Abdominal pain  Wear appropriate P.P.E. (e.g. nitrile gloves)
 Nausea and vomiting  Gather as much information as possible
 Distressed state  Monitor the airway and breathing
 Possible blood in urine  Try and lay the casualty down with their knees raised, if it is
not possible let the casualty sit in a comfortable position
 Signs of shock
 Treat for shock and be prepared to carry out
basic life support
Other injuries
Crush injuries
A crush injury can cause muscle swelling and internal damage to organs and may stop blood circulating
freely around the body. There is two main types of crush injuries:

Compartment syndrome
This is the compression of nerves, blood vessels and muscles inside a compartment within the body. This
can cause tissues to die from lack of blood reaching them due to the compression of the blood vessels.

Crush syndrome (Bywater's syndrome)

This occurs when pressure on the muscles is released. It causes toxins to be released into the bloodstream.
These toxins are highly dangerous to the kidneys and can cause renal failure and death.
 Other injuries
Crush injuries
Recognition Treatment
 Loss of sensation in the affected area  Ensure that the area is safe to approach
 Pale skin  Establish how long the casualty has been crushed for.
 If longer than 15 minutes leave them in the position found
 General weakness in the area of the
crush  If less than 15 minutes attempt to release the crush

 Severe pain  Treat associated wounds and bleeding

 Treat for shock
 Call and ambulance (999/112) and request additional
emergency services if required
 Be prepared to carry out basic life support
Heat, cold and other injuries
Learning outcomes

 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from hypothermia
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from frost bite
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from heat exhaustion
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty suffering from heat stroke
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with abdominal injuries
 Describe the signs, symptoms and treatment of a casualty with crush injuries
Tasks
 There are 12 questions to answer in your pack, please complete them.

 Please complete your individual learning plan.

 Finally complete the course evaluation sheet provided, answer honestly as all feedback helps
us improve future courses.
Thank you