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First-Aid Guide

Medical emergencies don't occur every day. But when they do, information can help youdeal with these situations.

Anaphylaxis

Animal bites

Black eye

Blisters

Bruise

Burns

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation C!"#

Chemical burns

Chemical splash in the eye

Chest pain

Choking Corneal abrasion scratch#

Cuts and scrapes

$islocation

%lectrical burns

%lectrical shock

&ainting

&ever

&irstaid kits

&oodborne illness &oreign ob(ect in the ear

&oreign ob(ect in the eye &oreign ob(ect in the nose

&oreign ob(ect in the skin

&oreign ob(ect inhaled

&oreign ob(ect swallowed

&ractures broken bones#

&rostbite

)astroenteritis

*ead pain

*ead trauma

*eart attack

*eat cramps

*eat exhaustion

*eatstroke

*uman bites

*ypothermia

+nsect bites and stings

Motion sickness

osebleeds

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-anaphylaxis/FA00003http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-animal-bites/FA00044http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-black-eye/HQ00016http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-blisters/WL00008http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-bruise/FA00039http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-burns/FA00022http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-cpr/FA00061http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-chemical-burns/FA00024http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-eye-emergency/FA00041http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-chest-pain/FA00036http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-choking/FA00025http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-corneal-abrasion/FA00037http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-cuts/FA00042http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-dislocation/FA00009http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-electrical-burns/FA00027http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-electrical-shock/FA00051http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-fainting/FA00052http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-fever/FA00063http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-kits/FA00067http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-food-borne-illness/FA00043http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/HQ00061http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00053http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00054http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00055http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00064http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00059http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-fractures/FA00058http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-frostbite/FA00023http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-gastroenteritis/FA00030http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-head-pain/FA00049http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-head-trauma/FA00008http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heart-attack/FA00050http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heat-cramps/FA00021http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heat-exhaustion/FA00020http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heatstroke/FA00019http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-human-bites/FA00057http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-hypothermia/FA00017http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-insect-bites/FA00046http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-motion-sickness/HQ01099http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-nosebleeds/HQ00105http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-anaphylaxis/FA00003http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-animal-bites/FA00044http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-black-eye/HQ00016http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-blisters/WL00008http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-bruise/FA00039http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-burns/FA00022http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-cpr/FA00061http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-chemical-burns/FA00024http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-eye-emergency/FA00041http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-chest-pain/FA00036http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-choking/FA00025http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-corneal-abrasion/FA00037http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-cuts/FA00042http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-dislocation/FA00009http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-electrical-burns/FA00027http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-electrical-shock/FA00051http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-fainting/FA00052http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-fever/FA00063http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-kits/FA00067http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-food-borne-illness/FA00043http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/HQ00061http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00053http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00054http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00055http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00064http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid/FA00059http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-fractures/FA00058http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-frostbite/FA00023http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-gastroenteritis/FA00030http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-head-pain/FA00049http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-head-trauma/FA00008http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heart-attack/FA00050http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heat-cramps/FA00021http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heat-exhaustion/FA00020http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heatstroke/FA00019http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-human-bites/FA00057http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-hypothermia/FA00017http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-insect-bites/FA00046http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-motion-sickness/HQ01099http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-nosebleeds/HQ00105

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!oisoning

!uncture wounds

-evere bleeding

-hock -nakebites

-pider bites -pinal in(ury

-prain

-troke

-unburn

ick bites

ooth loss

oothache

First-aid kits: Stock supplies that cansave lives

A wellstocked firstaid kit can help you respond effectively to common in(uries and

emergencies. /eep at least one firstaid kit in your home and one in your car. -tore your

kits in easytoretrieve locations that are out of the reach of young children. Children oldenough to understand the purpose of the kits should know where they are stored.

0ou can purchase firstaid kits at many drugstores or assemble your own. Contents of a

firstaid kit should include1

Basic supplies

Adhesive tape

Aluminum finger splints

Antibiotic ointment

Antiseptic solution or towelettes

Bandages, including a roll of elastic wrap Ace, Coban, others# and bandage strips

BandAid, Curad, others# in assorted si2es

+nstant cold packs

Cotton balls and cottontipped swabs $isposable latex or synthetic gloves, at least two pair

)au2e pads and roller gau2e in assorted si2es

%ye goggles

&irstaid manual

!etroleum (elly or other lubricant

!lastic bags for the disposal of contaminated materials

-afety pins in assorted si2es

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-poisoning/FA00029http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-puncture-wounds/FA00014http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-severe-bleeding/FA00038http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-shock/FA00056http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-snake-bites/FA00047http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-spider-bites/FA00048http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-spinal-injury/FA00010http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-sprain/FA00016http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-stroke/FA00012http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-sunburn/FA00028http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-tick-bites/FA00062http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-tooth-loss/FA00015http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-toothache/FA00013http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-poisoning/FA00029http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-puncture-wounds/FA00014http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-severe-bleeding/FA00038http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-shock/FA00056http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-snake-bites/FA00047http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-spider-bites/FA00048http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-spinal-injury/FA00010http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-sprain/FA00016http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-stroke/FA00012http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-sunburn/FA00028http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-tick-bites/FA00062http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-tooth-loss/FA00015http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-toothache/FA00013

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-aveAooth storage device containing salt solution and a travel case

-cissors, twee2ers and a needle

-oap or instant hand saniti2er

-terile eyewash, such as a saline solution

hermometer

riangular bandage urkey baster or other bulb suction device for flushing out wounds

Medications

Activated charcoal use only if instructed by your poison control center#

Antidiarrhea medication

3verthecounter oral antihistamine Benadryl, others#

Aspirin and nonaspirin pain relievers never give aspirin to children#

Calamine lotion

3verthecounter hydrocortisone cream

!ersonal medications +f prescribed by your doctor, drugs to treat an allergic attack, such as an auto

in(ector of epinephrine %pi!en#

-yringe, medicine cup or spoon

Emergency items

Cell phone and recharger that utili2es the accessory plug in your car dash

%mergency phone numbers, including contact information for your family doctorand pediatrician, local emergency services, emergency road service providers and

the regional poison control center

-mall, waterproof flashlight and extra batteries Candles and matches for cold climates

-unscreen

Mylar emergency blanket

&irstaid instruction manual

Give your kit a checkupCheck your firstaid kits regularly, at least every three months, to be sure the flashlight

batteries work and to replace supplies that have expired.

+n addition, take a firstaid course to prepare for a possible medical emergency. Be sure

the course covers cardiopulmonary resuscitation C!"# and how to use an automaticexternal defibrillator A%$#. "enew your C!" certification at least every two years.

!repare children for medical emergencies in ageappropriate ways. he American "ed

Cross offers a number of helpful resources, including classes designed to help childrenunderstand and use firstaid techni4ues.

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Anaphylaxis: First aid

A severe allergic reaction anaphylaxis# can produce shock and lifethreateningrespiratory distress and circulatory collapse.

+n sensitive people, anaphylaxis can occur within minutes, but may also occur up to

several hours after exposure to a specific allergycausing substance. A wide range of

substances 5 including insect venom, pollen, latex, and certain foods and drugs 5 cancause anaphylaxis. -ome people have anaphylactic reactions from unknown causes.

+f you're extremely sensitive, you might break out in hives and your eyes or lips might

swell severely. he inside of your throat might swell as well, even to the point of causing

difficulty breathing and shock. 0our blood pressure drops, and your internal organs canbe affected. $i22iness, mental confusion, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting or

diarrhea also may accompany anaphylaxis.

Ho you can !e ready:

+f you've had an anaphylactic reaction in the past, carry medications with you as anantidote. %pinephrine is the most commonly used drug for severe allergic reactions. +t

comes only as an in(ection that must be prescribed by your doctor. 0ou can self

administer epinephrine with an autoin(ector, such as the %pi!en. Be sure to read thein(ection instructions as soon as you receive an autoin(ector, and have your household

members read them as well.

0ou should also carry an antihistamine pill, such as diphenhydramine Benadryl, others#,

because the effects of epinephrine are only temporary. -eek emergency medical attention

immediately after taking these medications.

"# you o!serve someone having an allergic reaction ith signs o# anaphylaxis:

6. Call 766 or your local medical emergency number.

8. Check for special medications that the person might be carrying to treat anallergic attack, such as an autoin(ector of epinephrine for example, %pi!en#.

Administer the drug as directed 5 usually by pressing the autoin(ector against

the person's thigh and holding it in place for several seconds. Massage the

in(ection site for 69 seconds to enhance absorption. After administeringepinephrine, have the person take an antihistamine pill if he or she is able to do so

without choking. :ook for a medical emergency +$ bracelet or necklace.;. *ave the person lie still on his or her back with feet higher than the head.. +f there are no signs of circulation breathing, coughing or movement#, begin

C!".

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Animal !ites: First aid

+f an animal bites you or your child, follow these guidelines1

For minor ounds$+f the bite barely breaks the skin and there is no danger ofrabies, treat it as a minor wound. ?ash the wound thoroughly with soap and

water. Apply an antibiotic cream to prevent infection and cover the bite with a

clean bandage.

For deep ounds$+f the animal bite creates a deep puncture of the skin or the

skin is badly torn and bleeding, apply pressure with a clean, dry cloth to stop the

bleeding and see your doctor.

For in#ection$+f you notice signs of infection, such as swelling, redness,

increased pain or oo2ing, see your doctor immediately.

For suspected ra!ies$+f you suspect the bite was caused by an animal that might

carry rabies 5 including any wild or domestic animal of unknown immuni2ationstatus 5 see your doctor immediately.

$octors recommend getting a tetanus shot every 69 years. +f your last one was more than

five years ago and your wound is deep or dirty, your doctor may recommend a booster.

0ou should have the booster within

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possible after the in(ury to reduce swelling, and continue using ice or cold packs

for 8< to

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%ear the same socks you*ll ear hen alking, or bring them with you to the

store.

Measure your #eet$-hoe si2es change throughout adulthood.

Measure !oth #eet and try on !oth shoes$+f your feet differ in si2e, buy the

larger si2e.

Go #or #lexi!le' !ut supportive' shoeswith cushioned insoles. +eave toe room$Be sure that you can comfortably wiggle your toes.

Avoid shoes ith seams in the toe !ox, which may irritate bunions or

hammertoes.

Bruise: First aid

A bruise forms when a blow breaks small blood vessels near your skin's surface, allowing

a small amount of blood to leak out into the tissues under your skin. he trapped blood

appears as a blackandblue mark. -ometimes, there also are tiny red dots or red

splotches.

+f your skin isn't broken, you don't need a bandage. 0ou can, however, enhance bruise

healing with these simple techni4ues1

%levate the in(ured area.

Apply ice or a cold pack several times a day for a day or two after the in(ury.

"est the bruised area, if possible.

Consider acetaminophen ylenol, others# for pain relief.

See your doctor i#:

0ou have unusually large or painful bruises 5 particularly if your bruises seem todevelop for no known reasons.

0ou bruise easily and you're experiencing abnormal bleeding elsewhere, such as

from your nose or gums, or you notice blood in your eyes, your stool or yoururine.

0ou have no history of bruising, but suddenly experience bruises.

hese signs and symptoms may indicate a more serious problem, such as a bloodclotting

problem or bloodrelated disease. Bruises accompanied by persistent pain or headachealso may indicate a more serious underlying illness and re4uire medical attention.

Burns: First aid

o distinguish a minor burn from a serious burn, the first step is to determine the degreeand the extent of damage to body tissues. he three classifications of firstdegree burn,

seconddegree burn and thirddegree burn will help you determine emergency care1

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First-degree !urn

he least serious burns are those in which only the outer layer of skin is burned. he skin

is usually red, with swelling and pain sometimes present. he outer layer of skin hasn'tbeen burned through. reat a firstdegree burn as a minor burn unless it involves

substantial portions of the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or a ma(or (oint.

Second-degree !urn

?hen the first layer of skin has been burned through and the second layer of skindermis# also is burned, the in(ury is called a seconddegree burn. Blisters develop and

the skin takes on an intensely reddened, splotchy appearance. -econddegree burns

produce severe pain and swelling.

+f the seconddegree burn is no larger than ; inches .= centimeters# in diameter, treat it

as a minor burn. +f the burned area is larger or if the burn is on the hands, feet, face, groin

or buttocks, or over a ma(or (oint, treat it as a ma(or burn and get medical help

immediately.

For minor !urns'including firstdegree burns and seconddegree burns limited to an

area no larger than ; inches .= centimeters# in diameter, take the following action1

)ool the !urn$*old the burned area under cold running water for at least five

minutes, or until the pain subsides. +f this is impractical, immerse the burn in coldwater or cool it with cold compresses. Cooling the burn reduces swelling by

conducting heat away from the skin. $on't put ice on the burn.

)over the !urn ith a sterile gau&e !andage$$on't use fluffy cotton, whichmay irritate the skin. ?rap the gau2e loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned

skin. Bandaging keeps air off the burned skin, reduces pain and protects blistered

skin. ,ake an over-the-counter pain reliever$hese include aspirin, ibuprofen

Advil, Motrin, others#, naproxen Aleve# or acetaminophen ylenol, others#.

ever give aspirin to children or teenagers.

Minor burns usually heal without further treatment. hey may heal with pigment

changes, meaning the healed area may be a different color from the surrounding skin.?atch for signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, fever, swelling or oo2ing. +f

infection develops, seek medical help. Avoid rein(uring or tanning if the burns are less

than a year old 5 doing so may cause more extensive pigmentation changes. sesunscreen on the area for at least a year.

)aution

on*t use ice$!utting ice directly on a burn can cause frostbite, further damaging

your skin.

on*t apply !utter or ointments to the !urn$his could prevent proper healing.

on*t !reak !listers$Broken blisters are vulnerable to infection.

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,hird-degree !urn

he most serious burns are painless, involve all layers of the skin and cause permanent

tissue damage. &at, muscle and even bone may be affected. Areas may be charred blackor appear dry and white. $ifficulty inhaling and exhaling, carbon monoxide poisoning, or

other toxic effects may occur if smoke inhalation accompanies the burn.

For ma.or !urns'dial 766 or call for emergency medical assistance. ntil an emergency

unit arrives, follow these steps1

6. on*t remove !urnt clothing$*owever, do make sure the victim is no longer in

contact with smoldering materials or exposed to smoke or heat.

8. on*t immerse large severe !urns in cold ater$$oing so could cause shock.;. )heck #or signs o# circulation /!reathing' coughing or movement0$+f there is

no breathing or other sign of circulation, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation

C!"#.

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,rained' and ready to go$+f you're well trained, and confident in your ability,

then you can opt for one of two approaches1 6. Alternate between ;9 chest

compressions and two rescue breaths, or 8. Eust do chest compressions. $etailsdescribed below.#

,rained' !ut rusty$+f you've previously received C!" training, but you're not

confident in your abilities, then it's fine to do (ust chest compressions.

he above advice applies only to adults needing C!", not to children.

C!" can keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until more

definitive medical treatment can restore a normal heart rhythm.

?hen the heart stops, the absence of oxygenated blood can cause irreparable brain

damage in only a few minutes. $eath will occur within eight to 69 minutes. ime iscritical when you're helping an unconscious person who isn't breathing.

o learn C!" properly, take an accredited firstaid training course, including C!" andhow to use an automatic external defibrillator A%$#.

Be#ore you !eginAssess the situation before starting C!"1

+s the person conscious or unconsciousF

+f the person appears unconscious, tap or shake his or her shoulder and ask loudly,

Are you 3/F

+f the person doesn't respond and two people are available, one should call 766 or

the local emergency number and one should begin C!". +f you are alone and have

immediate access to a telephone, call 766 before beginning C!" 5 unless youthink the person has become unresponsive because of suffocation such as fromdrowning#. +n this special case, begin C!" for one minute and then call 766.

+f an A%$ is immediately available, deliver one shock if advised by the device,

then begin C!".

2emem!er the AB)s

hink ABC 5 Airway, Breathing and Circulation 5 to remember the steps explained

below. Move 4uickly through Airway and Breathing to begin chest compressions to

restore circulation.

A"2%A3: )lear the airay

6. !ut the person on his or her back on a firm surface.

8. /neel next to the person's neck and shoulders.

;. 3pen the person's airway using the headtilt, chinlift maneuver. !ut your palm onthe person's forehead and gently tilt the head back. hen with the other hand,

gently lift the chin forward to open the airway.

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,o per#orm )12 on a child

he procedure for giving C!" to a child age 6 through @ is essentially the same as that

for an adult. he differences are as follows1

+f you're alone, perform five cycles of compressions and breaths on the child 5

this should take about two minutes 5 before calling 766 or your local emergencynumber or using an A%$.

se only one hand to perform heart compressions. Breathe more gently.

se the same compressionbreath rate as is used for adults1 ;9 compressions

followed by two breaths. his is one cycle. &ollowing the two breaths,immediately begin the next cycle of compressions and breaths.

After five cycles about two minutes# of C!", if there is no response and an A%$

is available, apply it and follow the prompts. se pediatric pads if available. +fpediatric pads aren't available, use adult pads.

Continue until the child moves or help arrives.

,o per#orm )12 on a !a!y

Most cardiac arrests in infants occur from lack of oxygen, such as from drowning or

choking. +f you know the infant has an airway obstruction, perform first aid for choking.+f you don't know why the infant isn't breathing, perform C!".

o begin, assess the situation. -troke the baby and watch for a response, such as

movement, but don't shake the child.

+f there's no response, follow the ABC procedures below and time the call for help as

follows1

+f you're the only rescuer and C!" is needed, do C!" for two minutes 5 about

five cycles 5 before calling 766 or your local emergency number.

+f another person is available, have that person call for help immediately whileyou attend to the baby.

A"2%A3: )lear the airay

6. !lace the baby on his or her back on a firm, flat surface, such as a table. he floor

or ground also will do.

8. )ently tip the head back by lifting the chin with one hand and pushing down onthe forehead with the other hand.

;. +n no more than 69 seconds, put your ear near the baby's mouth and check for

breathing1 :ook for chest motion, listen for breath sounds, and feel for breath onyour cheek and ear.

+f the infant isn't breathing, begin mouthtomouth breathing immediately.

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B2EA,H"4G: Breathe #or the in#ant

6. Cover the baby's mouth and nose with your mouth.

8. !repare to give two rescue breaths. se the strength of your cheeks to delivergentle puffs of air instead of deep breaths from your lungs# to slowly breathe into

the baby's mouth one time, taking one second for the breath. ?atch to see if thebaby's chest rises. +f it does, give a second rescue breath. +f the chest does not rise,

repeat the headtilt, chinlift maneuver and then give the second breath.;. +f the chest still doesn't rise, examine the mouth to make sure no foreign material

is inside. +f the ob(ect is seen, sweep it out with your finger. +f the airway seems

blocked, perform first aid for a choking infant.

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he chemical burn penetrated through the first layer of skin, and the resulting

seconddegree burn covers an area more than ; inches .= centimeters# in

diameter.

he chemical burn occurred on the eye, hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or

over a ma(or (oint.

he victim has pain that cannot be controlled with overthecounter pain relieverssuch as acetaminophen ylenol, others# or ibuprofen Advil, Motrin, others#.

+f you're unsure whether a substance is toxic, call the poison control center at @99888

6888. +f you seek emergency assistance, bring the chemical container or a complete

description of the substance with you for identification.

)hemical splash in the eye: First aid

+f a chemical splashes into your eye, take these steps immediately1

6. Flush your eye ith ater$se clean, lukewarm tap water for at least 89

minutes, and use whichever of these approaches is 4uickest1

o )et into the shower and aim a gentle stream of lukewarm water on the

forehead over the affected eye. 3r, aim the stream on the bridge of the

nose if both eyes are affected.

o 3r, put your head down and turn it to the side. hen hold your affected

eye open under a gently running faucet.

o 0oung children may do best if they lie down in the bathtub or lean back

over a sink while you pour a gentle stream of water on the forehead over

the affected eye or on the bridge of the nose for both eyes. "emember to

flush for at least 89 minutes no matter which method you choose.8. %ash your hands ith soap and ater$horoughly rinse your hands to be sure

no chemical or soap is left on them. 0our first goal is to get the chemical off the

surface of your eye, but then you need to make sure to remove the chemical fromyour hands.

;. 2emove contact lenses$+f they didn't come out during the flush, then take them

out.

)aution:

$on't rub the eye 5 this may cause further damage.

$on't put anything except water or contact lens saline rinse in the eye, and don'tuse eyedrops unless emergency personnel tell you to do so.

Seek emergency medical assistance

After following the above steps, seek emergency care or, if necessary, call 766 or yourlocal emergency number. ake the chemical container or the name of the chemical with

you to the emergency department. +f readily available, wear sunglasses because your eyes

will be sensitive to light.

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)hest pain: First aid

Causes of chest pain can vary from minor problems, such as indigestion or stress, toserious medical emergencies, such as a heart attack or pulmonary embolism. he specific

cause of chest pain is often difficult to interpret.

As with other sudden, unexplained pains, chest pain may be a signal for you to get

medical help. se the following information to help you determine whether your chestpain is a medical emergency.

Heart attack

A heart attack occurs when an artery that supplies oxygen to your heart muscle becomes

blocked. A heart attack generally causes chest pain that lasts longer than 6= minutes. Buta heart attack can also be silent and produce no signs or symptoms.

Many people who suffer a heart attack have warning symptoms hours, days or weeks in

advance. he earliest predictor of an attack may be recurrent chest pain that's triggered by

exertion and relieved by rest.

-omeone having a heart attack may experience any or all of the following1

ncomfortable pressure, fullness or s4uee2ing pain in the center of the chest

lasting more than a few minutes

!ain spreading to the shoulders, neck or arms

:ightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea or shortness of breath

"# you or someone else may !e having a heart attack:

ial 677 or call #or emergency medical assistance$$on't tough out the

symptoms of a heart attack for more than five minutes. +f you don't have access to

emergency medical services, have someone such as a neighbor or friend drive youto the nearest hospital. $rive yourself only as a last resort, if there are absolutely

no other options. $riving yourself puts you and others at risk if your condition

suddenly worsens.

)he a regular-strength aspirin$Aspirin can inhibit blood clotting. *owever,

you shouldn't take aspirin if you're allergic to aspirin, have bleeding problems or

your doctor previously told you not to do so. ,ake nitroglycerin' i# prescri!ed$+f you think you're having a heart attack and

your doctor has previously prescribed nitroglycerin for you, take it as directed. $o

not take anyone else's nitroglycerin.

Begin )12$+f the person suspected of having a heart attack is unconscious, a 766dispatcher or another emergency medical specialist may advise you to begin

cardiopulmonary resuscitation C!"#. %ven if you're not trained, a dispatcher can

instruct you in C!" until help arrives.

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Pulmonary embolism

An embolus is an accumulation of foreign material 5 usually a blood clot 5 that blocks

an artery. issue death occurs when the tissue supplied by the blocked artery is damagedby the sudden loss of blood. !ulmonary embolism describes the condition that occurs

when a clot 5 usually from the veins of your leg or pelvis 5 lodges in an artery of yourlung.

-igns and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include1

-udden, sharp chest pain that begins or worsens with a deep breath or a cough,often accompanied by shortness of breath

-udden, unexplained shortness of breath, even without pain

Cough that may produce bloodstreaked sputum

"apid heartbeat

Anxiety and excessive perspiration

As with a suspected heart attack, dial 766 or call for emergency medical assistance

immediately.

Pneumonia with pleurisy

&re4uent signs and symptoms of pneumonia are chest pain accompanied by chills, fever

and a cough that may produce bloody or foulsmelling sputum. ?hen pneumonia occurs

with an inflammation of the membranes that surround the lung pleura#, you may haveconsiderable chest discomfort when inhaling or coughing. his condition is called

pleurisy.

3ne sign of pleurisy is that the pain is usually relieved temporarily by holding your

breath or putting pressure on the painful area of your chest. his is not true of a heartattack. -ee your doctor if a cough and a fever or chills accompany your chest pain.

!leurisy alone, however, isn't a medical emergency.

Chest wall pain

3ne of the most common varieties of harmless chest pain is chest wall pain. 3ne kind ofchest wall pain is costochondritis. +t consists of pain and tenderness in and around the

cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone sternum#.

3ften, placing pressure over a few points along the margin of the sternum results in

considerable tenderness limited to those small areas. +f the pressure of a finger duplicatesyour chest pain, you probably can conclude that a serious cause of chest pain, such as a

heart attack, isn't responsible.

5ther causes o# chest pain include:

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-trained chest muscles from overuse or excessive coughing

Chest muscle bruising from minor trauma

Acute anxiety with rapid breathing

!ain from the gastrointestinal tract,such as esophageal reflux, peptic ulcer pain, or

gallbladder pain.

)hoking: First aid

Choking occurs when a foreign ob(ect becomes lodged in the throat or windpipe,

blocking the flow of air. +n adults, a piece of food often is the culprit. 0oung children

often swallow small ob(ects. Because choking cuts off oxygen to the brain, administerfirst aid as 4uickly as possible.

he universal sign for choking is hands clutched to the throat. +f the person doesn't give

the signal, look for these indications1

+nability to talk

$ifficulty breathing or noisy breathing

+nability to cough forcefully

-kin, lips and nails turning blue or dusky

:oss of consciousness

+f choking is occurring, the "ed Cross recommends a 8#ive-and-#ive8approach todelivering first aid1

First, deliver five back blows between the person's shoulder blades with the heel

of your hand. 4ext, perform five abdominal thrusts also known as the Heimlich maneuver#. Alternatebetween five back blows and five abdominal thrusts until the blockage

is dislodged.

+f you're the only rescuer, perform back blows and abdominal thrusts before calling 766or your local emergency number# for help. +f another person is available, have that

person call for help while you perform first aid.

,o per#orm a!dominal thrusts /Heimlich maneuver0 on someone else:

Stand !ehind the person$ ?rap your arms around the waist. ip the personforward slightly.

Make a #ist ith one hand$!osition it slightly above the person's navel.

Grasp the #ist ith the other hand$!ress hard into the abdomen with a 4uick,

upward thrust 5 as if trying to lift the person up.

1er#orm a total o# #ive a!dominal thrusts, if needed. +f the blockage still isn't

dislodged, repeat the fiveandfive cycle.

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+f you're alone and choking, you'll be unable to effectively deliver back blows to yourself.

*owever, you can still perform abdominal thrusts to dislodge the item.

,o per#orm a!dominal thrusts /Heimlich maneuver0 on yoursel#:

1lace a #istslightly above your navel. Grasp your #istwith the other hand and bend over a hard surface 5 a countertop

or chair will do.

Shove your #istinward and upward.

)learing the airay o# a pregnant oman or o!ese person:

1osition your hands a little !it higherthan with a normal *eimlich maneuver,

at the base of the breastbone, (ust above the (oining of the lowest ribs.

1roceed as ith the Heimlich maneuver'pressing hard into the chest, with a

4uick thrust.

2epeatuntil the food or other blockage is dislodged or the person becomesunconscious.

)learing the airay o# an unconscious person:

+oer the personon his or her back onto the floor.

)lear the airay$+f there's a visible blockage at the back of the throat or high in

the throat, reach a finger into the mouth and sweep out the cause of the blockage.

Be careful not to push the food or ob(ect deeper into the airway, which canhappen easily in young children.

Begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation /)120if the ob(ect remains lodged and

the person doesn't respond after you take the above measures. he chestcompressions used in C!" may dislodge the ob(ect. "emember to recheck themouth periodically.

)learing the airay o# a choking in#ant younger than age 7:

Assume a seated position and hold the in#ant #acedonon your forearm,

which is resting on your thigh.

,hump the in#ant gently !ut #irmlyfive times on the middle of the back using

the heel of your hand. he combination of gravity and the back blows should

release the blocking ob(ect.

Hold the in#ant #aceup on your #orearmwith the head lower than the trunk ifthe above doesn't work. sing two fingers placed at the center of the infant's

breastbone, give five 4uick chest compressions.

2epeat the !ack !los and chest thrustsif breathing doesn't resume. Call foremergency medical help.

Begin in#ant )12if one of these techni4ues opens the airway but the infant

doesn't resume breathing.

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+f the child is older than age 6, give abdominal thrusts only.

o prepare yourself for these situations, learn the *eimlich maneuver and C!" in a

certified firstaid training course.

)orneal a!rasion /scratch0: First aidhe most common types of eye in(ury involve the cornea 5 the clear, protective

window at the front of your eye. Contact with dust, dirt, sand, wood shavings, metal

particles or even an edge of a piece of paper can scratch or cut the cornea. sually thescratch is superficial, and this is called a corneal abrasion. -ome corneal abrasions

become infected and result in a corneal ulcer, which is a serious problem.

%veryday activities can lead to corneal abrasions. %xamples are playing sports, doing

home repairs or being scratched by children who accidentally brush your cornea with a

fingernail. 3ther common in(uries to the cornea include splash accidents 5 contact withchemicals ranging from antifree2e to household cleaners.

Because the cornea is extremely sensitive, abrasions can be painful. +f your cornea isscratched, you might feel like you have sand in your eye. ears, blurred vision, increased

sensitivity or redness around the eye can suggest a corneal abrasion. 0ou may get a

headache.

+n case of in(ury, seek prompt medical attention. 3ther immediate steps you can take fora corneal abrasion are to1

(se saline solution' i# availa!le' or clean ater to rinse the eye$ se an eyecupor small, clean glass positioned with its rim resting on the bone at the base of your

eye socket. +f your work site has an eyerinse station, use it. "insing the eye maywash out an offending foreign body.

Blink several times$his movement may remove small particles of dust or sand.

1ull the upper eyelid over the loer eyelid$he lashes of your lower eyelid canbrush a foreign body from the undersurface of your upper eyelid.

ake caution to avoid certain actions that may aggravate the in(ury1

on*t try to remove an o!.ectthat's embedded in your eyeball. Also avoid

trying to remove a large ob(ect that makes closing the eye difficult. on*t ru! your eye a#ter an in.ury$ouching or pressing on your eye can

worsen a corneal abrasion.

on*t touch your eye!allwith twee2ers, cotton swabs or other instruments. his

can aggravate a corneal abrasion

)uts and scrapes: First aid

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Minor cuts and scrapes usually don't re4uire a trip to the emergency room. 0et proper

care is essential to avoid infection or other complications. hese guidelines can help you

care for simple wounds1

6. Stop the !leeding$Minor cuts and scrapes usually stop bleeding on their own. +f

they don't, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or bandage. *old the pressurecontinuously for 89 to ;9 minutes. $on't keep checking to see if the bleeding has

stopped because this may damage or dislodge the fresh clot that's forming andcause bleeding to resume. +f the blood spurts or continues to flow after continuous

pressure, seek medical assistance.

8. )lean the ound$"inse out the wound with clear water. -oap can irritate thewound, so try to keep it out of the actual wound. +f dirt or debris remains in the

wound after washing, use twee2ers cleaned with alcohol to remove the particles.

+f debris remains embedded in the wound after cleaning, see your doctor.horough wound cleaning reduces the risk of infection and tetanus. o clean the

area around the wound, use soap and a washcloth. here's no need to use

hydrogen peroxide, iodine or an iodinecontaining cleanser.;. Apply an anti!iotic$After you clean the wound, apply a thin layer of an

antibiotic cream or ointment such as eosporin or !olysporin to help keep the

surface moist. he products don't make the wound heal faster, but they can

discourage infection and allow your body's healing process to close the woundmore efficiently. Certain ingredients in some ointments can cause a mild rash in

some people. +f a rash appears, stop using the ointment.

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A dislocation is an in(ury in which the ends of your bones are forced from their normal

positions. he cause is usually trauma, such as a blow or fall, but dislocation can be

caused by an underlying disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

$islocations are common in(uries in contact sports, such as football and hockey, and in

sports that may involve falls, such as downhill skiing and volleyball. $islocations mayoccur in ma(or (oints, such as your shoulder, hip, knee, elbow or ankle or in smaller

(oints, such as your finger, thumb or toe.

he in(ury will temporarily deform and immobili2e your (oint and may result in sudden

and severe pain and swelling. A dislocation re4uires prompt medical attention to return

your bones to their proper positions.

"# you !elieve you have dislocated a .oint:

6. on*t delay medical care$)et medical help immediately.

8. on*t move the .oint$ntil you receive help, splint the affected (oint into itsfixed position. $on't try to move a dislocated (oint or force it back into place. his

can damage the (oint and its surrounding muscles, ligaments, nerves or bloodvessels.

;. 1ut ice on the in.ured .oint$his can help reduce swelling by controlling

internal bleeding and the buildup of fluids in and around the in(ured (oint.

Electrical !urns: First aid

An electrical burn may appear minor or not show on the skin at all, but the damage can

extend deep into the tissues beneath your skin. +f a strong electrical current passesthrough your body, internal damage, such as a heart rhythm disturbance or cardiac arrest,can occur. -ometimes the (olt associated with the electrical burn can cause you to be

thrown or to fall, resulting in fractures or other associated in(uries.

$ial 766 or call for emergency medical assistance if the person who has been burned is inpain, is confused, or is experiencing changes in his or breathing, heartbeat or

consciousness.

%hile helping someone ith an electrical !urn and aiting #or medical help' #ollo

these steps:

6. +ook #irst$ on*t touch$he person may still be in contact with the electricalsource. ouching the person may pass the current through you.

8. ,urn o## the source o# electricity i# possi!le$+f not, move the source away from

both you and the in(ured person using a dry nonconducting ob(ect made ofcardboard, plastic or wood.

;. )heck #or signs o# circulation /!reathing' coughing or movement0$+f absent,

begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation C!"# immediately.

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Fainting: First aid

&ainting occurs when the blood supply to your brain is momentarily inade4uate, causingyou to lose consciousness. his loss of consciousness is usually brief.

&ainting can have no medical significance, or the cause can be a serious disorder.

herefore, treat loss of consciousness as a medical emergency until the signs and

symptoms are relieved and the cause is known.

"# you #eel #aint:

:ie down or sit down.

+f you sit down, place your head between your knees.

$iscuss recurrent fainting spells with your doctor.

"# someone else #aints:

6. 1osition the person on his or her !ack$%levate the legs above heart level 5about 68 inches ;9 centimeters#, if possible.

8. )heck the person*s airay to !e sure it*s clear$?atch for vomiting.

;. )heck #or signs o# circulation /!reathing' coughing or movement0$+f absent,

begin C!". Call 766 or your local emergency number. Continue C!" until helparrives or the person responds and begins to breathe.

& ; C#. But a rectal temperaturehigher than 699.< & ;@ C# is always considered a fever. A rectal temperature reading is

generally 6 degree & about 9.= degree C# higher than an oral reading.

&or very young children and infants, even slightly elevated temperatures may indicate aserious infection. +n newborns, a subnormal temperature 5 rather than a fever 5 also

may be a sign of serious illness.

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$on't treat fevers below 698 & ;@.7 C# with any medications unless advised to do so by

your doctor. +f you have a fever of 698 & ;@.7 C# or higher, your doctor may suggest

taking an overthecounter medication, such as acetaminophen ylenol, others# oribuprofen Advil, Motrin, others#. Adults may also use aspirin. But don't give aspirin to

children. +t may trigger a rare, but potentially fatal, disorder known as "eye's syndrome.

Also, don't give ibuprofen to infants younger than > months of age.

Ho to take a temperature

0ou can choose from several types of thermometers. oday most have digital readouts.

-ome take the temperature 4uickly from the ear canal and can be especially useful foryoung children and older adults. 3ther thermometers can be used rectally, orally or under

the arm. +f you use a digital thermometer, be sure to read the instructions so you know

what the beeps mean and when to read the thermometer. nder normal circumstances,temperatures tend to be highest around < p.m. and lowest around < a.m.

Because of the potential for mercury exposure or ingestion, glass mercury thermometershave been phased out and are no longer recommended.

2ectally /#or in#ants0

o take your child's temperature rectally1

!lace a dab of petroleum (elly or other lubricant on the bulb.

:ay your child on his or her stomach.

Carefully insert the bulb onehalf inch to one inch into the rectum.

*old the bulb and child still for three minutes. o avoid in(ury, don't let go of thethermometer while it's inside your child.

"emove and read the temperature as recommended by the manufacturer. A rectal temperature reading is generally 6 degree & about 9.= degree C# higher

than a simultaneously taken oral reading.

aking a rectal temperature is also an option for older adults when taking an oral

temperature is not possible.

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5rally

o take your temperature orally1

!lace the bulb under your tongue.

Close your mouth for the recommended amount of time, usually three minutes.

(nder the arm /axillary0

Although it's not the most accurate way to take a temperature, you can also use an oral

thermometer for an armpit reading1

!lace the thermometer under your arm with your arm down.

*old your arms across your chest.

?ait five minutes or as recommended by your thermometer's manufacturer. hen

remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

An axillary reading is generally 6 degree & about 9.= degree C# less than an oral

reading.

o take your child's axillary temperature, sit your child in your lap with your child facing

to the side. !lace the thermometer under your child's near arm, which should be againstyour chest.

Get medical help #or a #ever in these cases:

+f a baby is younger than ; months of age and has a rectal temperature of 699.< &

;@ C# or higher. %ven if your baby doesn't have other signs or symptoms, callyour doctor (ust to be safe.

+f a baby is older than ; months of age and has a temperature of 698 & ;@.7 C# or

higher. +f a newborn has a lower than normal temperature 5 less than 7 & ;>.6 C#

rectally.

+f a child younger than age 8 has a fever for more than one day, or a child age 8 or

older has a fever for more than three days. +f your child has a fever after being leftin a very hot car, seek medical care immediately.

+f an adult has a temperature of more than 69; & ;7.< C# or has had a fever for

more than three days.

)all your doctor immediately i# any o# these signs or symptoms accompanies a

#ever:

A severe headache

-evere swelling of the throat

nusual skin rash nusual eye sensitivity to bright light

A stiff neck and pain when the head is bent forward

Mental confusion

!ersistent vomiting

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$ifficulty breathing or chest pain

%xtreme listlessness or irritability

Abdominal pain or pain when urinating

Any other unexplained symptoms

?hen reporting a fever to your doctor, don't attempt to convert from a rectal reading toan oral reading. +t's simpler to (ust report what the reading was and how you took it.

Food-!orne illness: First aid

All foods naturally contain small amounts of bacteria. But poor handling of food,

improper cooking or inade4uate storage can result in bacteria multiplying in large enough

numbers to cause illness.

!arasites, viruses, toxins and chemicals also can contaminate food. &oodborne illness

from these sources, however, is less common than foodborne illness caused by bacteria.

-igns and symptoms of food poisoning vary with the source of contamination. )enerally

diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain and, sometimes, vomiting occur within hours aftereating contaminated food.

?hether you become ill after eating contaminated food depends on the organism, the

amount of exposure, your age and your health. *ighrisk groups include1

5lder adults$As you get older, your immune system may not respond as 4uickly

and as effectively to infectious organisms as when you were younger.

"n#ants and young children$heir immune systems haven't fully developed. 1eople ith chronic diseases$*aving a chronic condition, such as diabetes or

A+$-, or receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer reduces yourimmune response.

"# you develop #ood poisoning:

"est and drink plenty of li4uids

$on't use antidiarrheal medications because they may slow elimination of

bacteria from your system

&oodborne illness often improves on its own within

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0ou suspect botulism poisoning. Botulism is a potentially fatal food poisoning

that results from the ingestion of a toxin formed by certain spores in food.

Botulism toxin is most often found in homecanned foods, especially green beansand tomatoes. -igns and symptoms usually begin 68 to ;> hours after eating the

contaminated food and may include headache, blurred vision, muscle weakness

and eventual paralysis. -ome people also have nausea and vomiting, constipation,urinary retention, difficulty breathing and dry mouth. hese signs and symptoms

re4uire immediate medical attention.