First aid
medical emergencies, before the intervention of emergency medical technicians or doctors. It is best to obtain training in first aid before a medical emergency occurs. Supplies useful in giving first aid are often kept together in a first aid kit.
Training in first aid is often available through community organizations such as the Red Cross or the American Heart Association. First aid instruction is a part of military basic training and the Scouting movement. In many countries in the Commonwealth of Nations the Order of St. John provides first aid training and operates Ambulance services.
First aid is often taught as a three step process:
(1) Assess the patient and/or accident scene for hazards to the victim or rescuer(s)
(2) Call for help and activate the emergency medical services (EMS)
(3) Provide treatment to the limits of your skill
Traditionally the method has been called ABC for "Airway", "Bleeding" and "Circulation". Easy to remember and in order of importance. However, in the military a "H" Hazardous situation is sometimes added, making it HABC, or by some training organisations "Danger" and "Response" are added making DR-ABC.
Conditions that often necessitate first aid
Providing first aid
Techniques and procedures of first aid
