Providing first aid and CPR can be stressful and even the thought of it brings up many questions. On this page we will discuss some of those questions and answer them as first aid and program instructors with provincially approved first aid providers. Some of the questions we hope to answer include: what should you do if you’re unsure of how to provide first aid in a situation? and How do you ensure hygienic practices when giving first aid? We will do our best to answer these questions but we always encourage that the best way to learn first aid and CPR is by taking first aid course with a reputable and provincially approved provider in your area.
What Should You Do If You’re Unsure Of How to Provide First Aid in a Situation?
If you’re unsure what to do during a first aid emergency it is important to remember about the legalities of providing aid in your country. If you’re in Canada you’re protected by something called the Good Samaritan Act which states that as long as you provide care to the best of your knowledge / ability you can not be held liable. This is to encourage you to provide aid in an emergency and not to worry about the legal ramification if you accidentally do something wrong. It’s important that this is only applicable as a lay rescuer and not if you’re the first aid provider / attendant in your workplace.
It’s also important to remember, if you’re unsure what to do, is to contact EMS and ask for guidance. EMS is trained to coach you into providing aid and to take the next steps in providing aid.
The most important thing you should remember is to keep yourself safe during any emergency. If you remember to stay safe, do your best and contact EMS then you’re doing great! Register for a first aid course today to learn even more!
How Do You Ensure Hygienic Practices When Giving First Aid?
Even before Covid the question of hygiene and personal safety has been a very frequent question in first aid and CPR courses. Individuals that are enrolled in first aid and CPR training will learn about staying safe when providing aid which includes the following topics:
- Effective hand washing
- The importance and frequency of hand washing
- How to safely put on and remove gloves
- How to use a pocket mask with a one way valve
- What to do if you’re a lay rescuer and uncomfortable doing artificial respiration
- The difference between sanitized and non sanitized equipment.
Learn about all these topics by enrolling in a OH&S approved first aid course today.
Did You Know?
First aid for spider bites
As a trained rescuer, remember these important tips and first aid management for spider bites. While spider bites are rarely lethal, the bite itself is quite dangerous and can cause a lot of damage. Bites from the black widow and brown recluse are two of the most common and dangerous spiders in North America.
- Remember the characteristics of the spider that bit you. This will help in identifying it.
- Clean the bite with soap and water.
- Use a cold compress on the affected area to help with pain and swelling.
- Elevate the affected area slightly above the heart.
- Watch out for any other signs and symptoms such as fever, rash, and changes in consciousness.