First Aid to deal with wounds and injuries

Cuts and wounds cannot be predicted. They can happen any time to kids or adults. Hence, it is important to know, what are the essential skills and medication required to treat these wounds. To make sure that the wound does not get any worse and heals properly. To provide first aid confidently, it is essential to be trained under Apply First Aid certification to minimize the chances of first aid going wrong and increasing chances of success. Nationally recognized First Aid institutes under National Training Information Service (NTIS) in Sunshine Coast, are the most reliable and updated source of learning First Aid Skills.

First Aid Kit is vital. Without which it will be difficult and tricky to deal with wounds and grazes. Let us understand, the essential items to be present in a first aid kit to provide initial help for wounds or burns.

Stock up your First Aid Kit with the following –

• • Adhesive tapes

• • Allergy medicines (Check the expiry date)

• • Bandages of different types

• • Calamine lotion

• • Cold Packs

• • Aloe Gel

• • Antibiotic Ointment

• • Elastic Bandages

• • Glove (Latex Free)

• • Pain relievers

• • Saline Wash

• • Antiseptic

• • Scissors & tweezers

Now that we have stocked up our First Aid Kit, let us understand the basics of dealing with minor wounds & injuries. These steps will help prevent infections and scars.

Step #1: Wash Hands

This is the Primary step. To avoid germs from the first aiders hands to come in contact with the wound it is mandatory to wash hands with soap or a hand wash. If you are on the go, even a sanitizer will be fine.

Step #2. Stop the bleeding

Here it is advised to put pressure on the wound or cut with a gauze pad. For the bleeding to stop, put pressure for a few minutes.

Step #3. Clean the Wound

After bleeding stops, use cold or saline water to wash the wound and make it dirt and bacteria free. You can also use soap, water or wet cloth to do the same. Make sure to not get the soap in the cut, it might irritate the wound.

Step# 4. Remove dirt and debris

Using a pair of sanitized tweezers carefully pick out dirt from the wound.

Step#5. Apply Ointment and cover the wound

Once the dirt is removed, apply a good ointment and cover the wound with a clean bandage. This will keep the skin away from scars.

Always keep in mind to check with the doctor for a tetanus injection/ vaccine to avoid any further complications with the wound.