First aid for blood loss and wounds www.firstaidpowerpoint.com firstaidpowerpoint.com
Introduction This is a free first aid powerpoint provided by http://www.firstaidpowerpoint.com firstaidforfree.com
The circulatory system The heart is responsible for pumping blood around the body Blood travels in arteries, veins and capillaries Blood transports Oxygen and nutrients around the body and helps remove waste products An average adult has around 10 pints of blood firstaidpowerpoint.com
Wound terminology Laceration: Tearing of the skin & tissue Contusion: A bruise Abrasion: Graze - loss of superficial layer of skin Incision: A straight clean wound Puncture: Caused by a sharp object Object may still be in the wound (foreign / embedded object) firstaidpowerpoint.com
First aid for major blood loss Expose injury and elevate above level of heart If there are no foreign objects, apply firm direct pressure over the wound If there is an object, apply pressure around the foreign object Call for emergency help firstaidpowerpoint.com
What not to do Do not apply a tourniquet unless specifically trained to do so Do not attempt to wash out a major wound – your aim is to control the bleeding firstaidpowerpoint.com
Shock (1) Shock is a medical emergency which can be caused by severe blood loss The casualty does not receive enough oxygen due to the loss of blood Signs & symptoms include: Pale clammy skin Drowsiness Thirst Confusion Nausea & vomiting firstaidpowerpoint.com
Shock (2) If you suspect a casualty is suffering from shock then you should: Lie them down and raise their legs This improves the blood flow to the vital organs Cover them with a blanket Call for emergency help if you haven’t already done so. firstaidpowerpoint.com
Infection control Try and keep the wound as clean as possible Try to avoid contact with the casualty’s blood Wear disposable latex / nitrile gloves if available If not, use any available items to create a barrier (e.g: a plastic bag) Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water afterwards Seek medical advice if you are concerned firstaidpowerpoint.com
First aid for minor wounds Wear gloves if available Clean the wound thoroughly with antiseptic wipes or saline Do not remove any embedded objects (e.g: glass) – seek medical advice Cover the wound using a clean dressing (plaster, non-adherent pad etc.) Seek medical advice if there are any signs of infection – redness, swelling or the area is warm to the touch firstaidpowerpoint.com