Skill Section: Wilderness First Aid Skill 6/17: Blisters Learning Intention: To equip you with the knowledge to avoid and treat blisters. Success Criteria: By the end of this session everyone should be able to: Describe what steps to take to avoid and treat blisters when walking. Some of you may be able to: Apply zinc oxide tape to hot-spots. Activities: 1.Brainstorm/Powerpoint: - What causes blisters? - What can you do to avoid them? - How should you treat them? 2. Practical - Zinc Oxide tape - Blister pads What is a blister? Your bodys way of protecting a sore area from further harm by creating a cushion of fluid What causes blisters? Friction between your skin and your sock or boot due to - Poor fit - Poor foot preparation Preparation Try out your boots (and socks) before a long walk If boots are loose, tighten laces or wear additional socks If boots are too tight, get bigger ones Apply Zinc Oxide tape to known hot-spots beforehand Zinc Oxide tape? Available from chemists Should be a roll (or two) in your 1 st Aid Kit Doesnt rub off or take skin away (unlike plasters!) Helps conduct heat away from hot spots On the walk If your feet start to hurt, STOP and address the problem Adjust boots/socks If you do not fix the problem, it will get much worse Apply tape to hot-spots Treatment If you do get a blister - Dont burst it until you get home - This risks infection & greater damage to skin If it bursts by itself - Use antiseptic cream - Apply ZOx tape and/or blister pad - If possible, let it dry out overnight Questions? Videos: Cotswold: Preventing Blisters (4.47) NOLS: Lacing a hiking boot (5.20)