What do you do when you encounter an injured person?

Life is precious. For this reason, saving a life can be one of the coolest and most important things you can do. Unfortunately, we all live in a world where accidents and injuries are a regular sight back in the day. But life is life, it must be saved. After all, you don’t want to be without help if you find yourself in the shoes of the injured person. So, helping someone in need, when they are getting injured is crucial.

But moments like this, when someone’s life depends on your actions, don’t come with a warning. But if and when they come, you have to know the right thing to do at the right time. One wrong step on the way and could endanger their lives. But we understand that it is only natural to panic in such stressful moments. You may not know what to do.

So, consider this a handbook of basic steps and first aid basics to apply when you encounter an injured person.

When someone is breathing but is unconscious

If you find someone who is unconscious but breathing ok and hasn’t had any external injuries (bleeding), the first thing to do is put them in the recovery position. Doing so will ensure that their airways are clear and open.

Here’s what recovery mode looks like:

When someone is unconscious but not breathing

If you find a person lying unconscious, but not breathing at all, do not waste time and call for an ambulance or medical help. Next, perform CPR with your hands if you don’t know how to perform rescue breaths.

When someone bleeds

The primary step you need to take is to stop the bleeding and prevent further blood loss if you find the person bleeding profusely. See if there is nothing in the wound, such as broken glass or metal. If so, be sure not to press the thing down into the wound.

Instead, you should press firmly on both sides of the embedded object and create padding around the area before applying a bandage or cloth.

If nothing is inserted into the wound, apply pressure to the wound with your hand (make sure your hands are clean) with a clean cloth or bandage if possible; Keep doing this until the bleeding stops.

When the wound is normal

If the bleeding is not profuse and is only light, you can start first aid by flushing the wound with cool water. Just wash the area around the area gently with a washcloth and soap. After that, cover the wound with a bandage.

When someone receives an electric shock

We know your first instinct would be to go and get that person away from the electrocution source, but that’s what you don’t have to do because they can electrocute you too. The first thing you need to do is seek medical help.

Next, you should disconnect the power supply using an insulator. Use wood, rubber, plastic or rubber.

Please note that you must not approach the point of electrocution. The electrocution source can emit voltage loops that travel outward. If the power buttons are near the source of the electrocution, move away from them, and use a wooden stick instead. You must stay at least six meters away, if the wiring is open.

If the power is out and you are not near the point of electrocution, check if the person is breathing. If not, perform CPR and perform oral resuscitation. You should also roll the person onto their side into the recovery position.

Concluding thoughts

Having basic first aid knowledge can make a critical difference when confronted with an injured person. By remaining calm, assessing the situation, and taking immediate action, you can provide vital help that may save lives or prevent further harm. Remember that even the simplest gesture can have a profound impact during an emergency.

Whether it’s applying pressure to a bleeding wound or providing reassurance to someone in distress, your willingness to step up and help can make all the difference. By equipping yourself with these essential skills, you become an empowered and compassionate member of society, ready to respond to unexpected situations and contribute to the well-being of others.

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