If you’re apprehensive about getting certification for first aid, it’s understandable. You may not know how you will react in an emergency. If you’re squeamish and there’s blood involved, you may worry you’ll feel sick or freeze up. You may even worry that getting into the middle of an emergency will put you at risk. Following are some tips for helping first-time first aid learners feel more confident about putting their skills to use.
Understanding communication is important. Being able to communicate effectively with a victim and reassure them is a very important element of a giving first aid. Calming and motivating a victim can increase their chance of survival and reduce the risk of heart or organ failure. It can also help put YOU at more ease. When you practice giving first aid, also practice the steps you need to take for effective communication so you can evaluate the situation more readily and communicate injuries to emergency services personnel either in person or over the phone.
Cultivate empathy. A good first aid responder is able to put themselves in the mindset of a victim. Imagining how you would want to be treated under the circumstances is a useful activity that can help you deliver the right aid and reassurances to someone in need.
Remain positive. It helps to focus on a positive outcome, regardless of the hurdles that lie ahead. This will make it easier to come to an individual’s aid in what looks like a dire situation. Focus positively on your belief in your ability to tackle challenges and beat the odds.
Remember the “Three Ps.” When it comes to giving first aid, it helps to remember the “three Ps,” which are: preserve life, prevent further injury and promote recovery.
Be vigilant. If you’re giving first aid in a chaotic situation, it’s important to be vigilant about your surroundings and check the area for any dangers, both to the injured person and to yourself. The truth is that if you become injured yourself, you won’t be able to help someone else. So before you rush to help someone, take a moment to analyze the area and spot anything that could be a threat. Call for help from bystanders to help you mitigate the danger.
Review your training regularly. If it’s been some years since you last took a first-aid, CPR or another course, it’s worthwhile to repeat it to freshen up your skills and make you feel more confident about delivering aid to those in need. Guidance and technology change all the time, so regular reviews will help you stay current with your skills.
Seek help from a professional safety organization. In Southern California, Unishield has been providing businesses with the highest quality first aid, emergency preparedness, safety training, and compliance solutions for employers. In addition, Unishield offers first aid kits and medical supplies, first aid restocking services, industrial safety equipment, and portable emergency medical equipment such as the lifesaving AED (automatic external defibrillator). Call 800-480-5855 or visit our website for more information.