NURSING DISASTER

FIRST AID
AVISO | BOCATEJA | DOSAL
First aid is the immediate and temporary care
given to the victim of an accident or sudden
illness.
The term 'First Aid' was adopted officially in
England for the first time in 1879 by the St. John
Ambulance Association. The expression 'First Aid'
had not come till 1894 and intended to designate
any person who has received a certificate from
an autho-rised association that he (or she) is
qualified to render first aid.
In deciding the nature of the case, the First Aider
must consider its History, Symptoms and Signs'

The 'History' is the story of how an accident or

sudden illness occurred. This may be obtained
from the casualty (if conscious) or from
witnesses.
"Symptoms' are the sensations of the casualty
such as feeling cold or shivery, faintness,
nausea, thirst pain, which can be obtained, if
conscious describes.
Signs are any variations from the normal
conditions of the casualty such as pallor,
congestion, swelling and deformity, which can
be observed by the first aider.
 If the cause of the condition is still active remove
1 the cause if possible, e.g. log of wood on leg, or
remove the casualty from the cause of the
conditions, eg gas-filled room.

Give treatment to preserve life, promote recovery

and prevent the condition becoming worse. Pay
2
special attention to the treatment of failure of
breathing, severe bleeding and shock.
 The speed with which a casualty is
1
brought under medical care is of
tremendous importance in his recovery

Unless the casualty is examined by a

doctor on the spot, it is the responsibility of
2 the first aider to see that he is conveyed to
his home (or other suitable temporary
shelter) or to hospital as soon as possible
in the manner most suitable in the
circumstances.
 If the accident occurs out-of-
Danger from falling building, doors, the casualty may be
moving machinery, electric treated in the open if the weather
current, fire, poisonous gases is fine; if the weather is bad, he
and similar hazards. must be removed to shelter as
soon as is reasonably possible.
Note houses and buildings near
at hand, whether occupied or
It is impossible to treat a patient
unoccupied and whether likely satisfactorily without sufficient
to be particularly useful, such as light and the first aider must
a chemist's shop, otherwise, provide for this.
temporary shelter may be
provided by means of
umbrellas, rugs and the like.
Crowds must be tactfully
controlled. If a doctor is present,
Reassure the casualty by
work under his direction. If not, speaking encouragingly to him.
ask if any one with a knowledge Warn him to be still and tell him
of first aid is present. If neither is that he is in trained hands.
available make use of
bystanders to the best
advantage.
The basic principles of first aid apply to all
emergencies, regardless of severity. As a first aider,
your main goals are to:

Preserve life – Ensure the casualty stays alive.

Prevent deterioration in the casualty’s condition –
Stop the condition from worsening.
Promote recovery – Help the casualty heal until
professional help arrives.
 GENERAL RULES
Stay calm and controlled. Use common sense and know your
Ensure your safety before helping limitations.
others. Do not attempt procedures you are not
Announce that you are a trained first trained for.
Example: If someone has a severe head
aider and take charge if no one more
injury after a landslide, focus on
qualified is present.
stabilizing them and wait for medical
If there are no doctors, nurses, or more professionals instead of attempting
experienced people present, calmly advanced treatment
take charge.
Once you take control of the situation,
assess it quickly and decide on priorities.
Ask yourself:
Are you or the casualty in danger?
Does the casualty have life-threatening
conditions?
Can bystanders help?
Do you need to call for assistance?
Your safety is a priority. You cannot
help others if you become a victim
yourself. Minimize risks to yourself,
the casualty, and bystanders.
 To determine the casualty’s condition, ask them, “What happened?” A response indicates they
are conscious, breathing, and their airway is clear. If they do not respond, follow these steps:

Ensure the airway is open. Tilt the Check if the casualty is breathing. Check for a pulse. If absent, begin
head back slightly if necessary. If not, start artificial ventilation chest compressions. Control
(rescue breaths). severe bleeding by applying
pressure to wounds.
Place an unconscious casualty in the recovery
position (on their side) to prevent choking.
If spinal injury is suspected, keep them still unless
breathing difficulties or vomiting occur.

Gas and poisonous fumes: If possible, cut off the

source and ensure adequate ventilation.
Electrical contact: Break the contact, if possible, and
take the necessary precautions against further
contact.
Fire and collapsing buildings: Move the casualty to
safety immediately if you can do so without
endangering your own life.
Some bystanders can be extremely useful and may be
able to assist with treatment.
Controlling severe bleeding or supporting a badly
injured limit.
Other bystanders may become nuances so you must
keep them occupied to prevent them from interfering
with your work. They can be asked to control traffic
crowds or be sent to telephone for assistance.

However, when sending bystanders to the telephone,

make sure that they understand the message that is to be
sent. If possible, ask them to write it down, but in any case,
ask them to repeat the message to you before actually
sending it. Always make sure that they report back to you
afterwards.
Treat fractures and large wounds
before moving the casualty unless
there is immediate danger.

Support injured parts while moving

the casualty if necessary.
CALLING FOR
ASSISTANCE
Whether you are giving the message yourself or
instructing someone to do so make sure that the
following information is passed on;

1. Telephone number
2. Exact location of the incident
3. Indicate the type and seriousness of the incident
4. The Number, sex and appropriate age of casualty
5. Request a special help and if you suspect heart
attack or childbirth
Earthquake Preparedness

BUILD A COMPREHENSIVE EMERGENCY KIT

An emergency kit is a cornerstone of disaster preparedness.
Ensure your kit is equipped with essential items to sustain you for
at least 72 hours, as help may not arrive immediately after a
major or earthquake occurs. Your kit should include:

Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days.

Non-perishable food: Canned goods, energy bars, and dried

foods that can last for days.

First aid supplies: Bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, sterile

gauze, medical tape, tweezers, scissors, and any prescription
medications.
Tools: A flashlight, extra batteries, a whistle, a multi-
tool, and a fire extinguisher.

Hygiene products: Hand sanitizer, soap, disinfectant

wipes, and waste bags.

Important documents: Copies of ID, insurance

policies, and emergency contact information stored
in a waterproof container.

Emergency blanket and extra clothing: To keep

warm in case of exposure to the elements.
Understanding where to take shelter during an earthquake
is critical to avoiding injury from falling objects and
collapsing structures. Key safe spots include:

Under sturdy furniture: Tables or desks that can protect

you from falling debris.

Interior walls: Stand near load-bearing walls that are

more structurally sound during an earthquake.

Away from windows: Windows can shatter during an

earthquake, so avoid areas with glass.

Clear paths: Ensure pathways to exits are free from

objects that could block your way during or after the
earthquake.
In the event of an earthquake, the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”
technique is the safest action to minimize injury:

Drop: Get low to the ground to prevent being knocked

over.
Cover: Protect your head and neck by getting under a
sturdy table or desk.

Hold On : Secure your position by holding onto the

furniture until the shaking stops.
Once the shaking stops, assess your
surroundings for hazards like gas leaks, broken
glass and debris, or unstable structures. Then,
attend to any injuries:

Treat cuts and abrasions: Clean wounds with

clean water or antiseptic wipes. Apply an
antibacterial ointment and cover with a sterile
bandage to reduce the risk of infection.

Immobilize fractures and sprains: If someone

has a suspected fracture or sprain, immobilize
the area with a makeshift splint using rigid
materials
Monitor for shock: Shock is common after
traumatic events. Symptoms include pale,
clammy skin, rapid breathing, and
confusion. Lay the person down, keep
them warm, and elevate their legs slightly
to improve circulation.

Address breathing difficulties: If someone

is having trouble breathing due to injury or
panic, ensure their airway is clear, help
them sit upright, and encourage slow,
deep breaths. If the person becomes
unresponsive, begin CPR.
Know how to safely operate a fire extinguisher

Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your

local emergency phone number.

Yell "Fire!" several times and go outside right away. If you

live in a building with elevators, use the stairs. Leave all
your things where they are and save yourself.

If closed doors or handles are warm or smoke blocks your

primary escape route, use your second way out. Never
open doors that are warm to the touch.
If you must escape through smoke, get low
and go under the smoke to your exit. Close
doors behind you.

If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes,

stay in the room with doors closed. Place a
wet towel under the door and call the fire
department or 9-1-1. Open a window and
wave a brightly colored cloth or flashlight to
signal for help.

Once you are outside, go to your meeting

place and then send one person to call the fire
department. If you cannot get to your meeting
place, follow your family emergency
communication plan.
Stop what you’re doing.

Drop to the ground and cover your face if you can.

Roll over and over or back and forth until the flames
go out. Running will only make the fire burn faster.

Once the flames are out, cool the burned skin with water
for three to five minutes. Call for medical attention.
Floods can develop rapidly, often leaving little time for
preparation. Knowing how to respond during and after a
flood can prevent injuries, drowning, and illnesses from
contaminated water.

1. Stay Informed About Flood Risks

2. Elevate Valuable Items and Equipment
3. Evacuate Early and Avoid Floodwaters
4. Treat Injuries Caused by Flooding - Foodwaters
are often contaminated with chemicals, sewage,
and debris, increasing the risk of infection from even
minor wounds. If someone is injured during a flood:

Clean wounds immediately: Use clean water or

antiseptic to thoroughly clean cuts and
abrasions. Apply antibacterial ointment and
cover with a sterile bandage.

Prevent infections: Floodwaters carry bacteria

that can infect wounds. Keep injuries dry and
covered, and seek medical attention if the
wound shows signs of infection, such as redness,
swelling, or discharge.
5. Disinfect and Stay Hygienic
Flooding can lead to the spread of bacteria and
waterborne diseases. To protect yourself:

Use bottled or boiled water: Only drink or use water

that has been properly treated. If you're unsure about
the safety of tap water, boil it for at least one minute to
kill bacteria and viruses.

Disinfect surfaces: After a flood, clean and disinfect

all surfaces that came into contact with floodwaters
using a bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts
water)

Dispose of contaminated food: Throw away any food

that has been exposed to floodwater, as it could be
contaminated.
Chemical spills can happen anywhere, anytime, and to
anyone. They can occur in homes, workplaces, and public
places. Chemical spills can be dangerous and can cause
serious harm to people and the environment. Therefore, it is
important to know how to handle chemical spills safely and
effectively. In this article, we will discuss the safety
precautions and cleanup procedures for chemical spills.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:
Wear Protective Gear: Before handling
any chemical spill, it is important to
wear protective gear such as gloves,
goggles, and a mask. This will protect
you from any harmful chemicals that
may be present in the spill.
Evacuate the Area: If the chemical spill
is large or if the chemicals are toxic, it is
important to evacuate the area
immediately. This will prevent any harm
to people in the vicinity.
Ventilate the Area: If the chemical spill
is small and can be handled safely, it is
important to ventilate the area by
opening windows and doors. This will
help to disperse any harmful fumes
that may be present.

Identify the Chemical: It is important

to identify the chemical that has been
spilled. This will help in determining the
appropriate cleanup procedure.
CLEANUP PROCEDURES:
Contain the Spill: The first step in cleaning
up a chemical spill is to contain the spill.
This can be done by using absorbent
materials such as sand, sawdust, or kitty
litter. These materials will help to absorb the
spilled chemical and prevent it from
spreading.

Neutralize the Chemical: Once the spill has

been contained, it is important to neutralize
the chemical. This can be done by using a
neutralizing agent such as baking soda or
vinegar. These agents will help to neutralize
the chemical and make it safe for cleanup.
Clean up the Spill: After the chemical has
been neutralized, it is important to clean up
the spill. This can be done by using a mop or
absorbent materials. It is important to
dispose of the contaminated materials
properly.

Decontaminate the Area: Once the spill has

been cleaned up, it is important to
decontaminate the area. This can be done
by using a disinfectant or bleach solution.
This will help to kill any remaining bacteria or
viruses that may be present.
 A first aid kit typically contains items such
as bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive
tape, scissors, gloves, and pain relievers.
These supplies can be crucial in treating
wounds, reducing bleeding, preventing
infection, and managing pain until
professional medical help arrives.
Various types of bandages Antiseptic solutions like
such as adhesive bandages, hydrogen peroxide or
sterile gauze pads, and elastic povidone-iodine can be used
bandages are essential for to clean wounds and prevent
covering wounds, controlling infection.
bleeding, and providing
support to injured areas.
Disposable gloves should be Basic over-the-counter
included to protect both the medications like pain relievers
caregiver and the injured (e.g., acetaminophen or
person from potential ibuprofen), antihistamines,
contamination. and antacids can be useful for
managing common
symptoms.
Medical tape is
necessary for securing These tools are handy for
cutting tape, removing
bandages and splinters, or cutting clothing to
dressings in place. access wounds
A CPR mask with a one-
way valve should be
included for performing It is important to have a list of
CPR safely. emergency contact numbers,
including local emergency
services and personal
contacts.
Additional items that can be included based on
specific needs or activities include:

1. Cold Packs: Instant cold packs can provide

relief for sprains, strains, or insect bites.

2. Burn Gel: A specialized gel for treating burns

can be included to provide immediate relief and
prevent further damage.

3. EpiPen: Individuals with severe allergies may

need to carry an epinephrine auto-injector
(EpiPen) in their first aid kit.

4. Safety Pins: Safety pins can be useful for

securing bandages or making temporary repairs
to clothing.

5. Splint: A splint can be included for stabilizing

fractures or sprains until medical help is available.
It is important to always check the scene and ensure your
safety first. Remember that dialing 9-1-1 is one of the most
important steps you can take to save another’s life.

1. Your safety is first, so leave the scene if you are at risk.

2. While helping the victim, protect yourself from
transmission of possible diseases.
Use preventive breathing barriers / personal protective
equipment (PPE) when available. Cloth masks should
be used for protection during COVID-19 when other PPE
is not available or there is a shortage in your area.
Try to cover your own cuts, sores, wounds, and any skin
conditions with a bandage before responding.
3. Use disposable gloves to avoid
direct contact with blood / bodily
fluids.

4. Washing your hands properly is

extremely important. Always use soap
and water after removing your gloves.

5. If you suspect that a victim has

suffered a spinal or neck injury, do not
move or shake the victim.
Other General Safety Measures:

1. Post important emergency numbers near your

phone i.e., local emergency contact, poison control
center, your physician, and etc.
2. Adopt all safety measures when driving or riding a
motor vehicle.
3. Install and/or check the smoke alarm in your
home. Be sure to check and change batteries
periodically.
4. Keep flashlights and fire extinguishers where they
are easily accessible, and out of the reach of
children.
5. Keep all chemicals, medicines, hazardous,
poisonous, and flammable material in a secured
place and away from a child’s reach.
6. Practice safe firearms storage, handling, and
education.
At some point in your life, you might need to give or
receive first aid. Knowing basic first aid skills like CPR,
treating burns, and managing choking can help in
emergencies. First aid training is crucial for saving lives
and preventing conditions from worsening. From
bandaging minor injuries to splinting broken arms or
handling allergic reactions, first aid is essential. Quick
response increases the chances of a good outcome until
medical help arrives. Always ensure the scene is safe, call
emergency services, and assist the victim as much as
possible. Having a first aid kit is important for immediate
care. First aid knowledge can preserve life, promote
recovery, and make a difference between life and death
in emergencies.
AVISO BOCATEJA DOSAL