Checking an Ill or Injured Person

FIRST… Check the Scene Check the person for life-threatening conditions Tell the person not to move and get consent If there are life-threatening conditions, call 9-1-1

If the person is conscious… Ask the following: ◦What is your name? ◦What happened? ◦Where do you feel any pain or discomfort? ◦Do you feel numbness or loss of sensation? ◦Do you have allergies? ◦Do you have any medical conditions? ◦When did you last eat or drink anything?  This information can be given to the EMS when they arrive!

Checking the victim… Adult ◦HEAD TO TOE Child or Infant ◦TOE TO HEAD  Less threatening

Prioritizing Care Please read the scenarios on pages On a separate sheet of paper, for each emergency situation, write down the victim who has the life-threatening condition and needs to be helped FIRST.

Signals for Shock Restlessness and irritability Altered level of consciousness Nausea or vomiting Rapid breathing and pulse Pale or ashen, cool, moist skin Excessive thirst

Care for Shock Call Monitor ABCs Control any external bleeding Keep the person from getting chilled or overheated Elevate the legs about 12 inches, if there is not a head, neck or spinal injury suspected Comfort and reassure until EMS arrives

Checking an unconscious person Call Always check to see if an unconscious person: ◦Has an open airway ◦Shows signs of life (movement and breathing)  ABCs ◦ A: Airway- Open the airway ◦ B: Breathing – Check for movement and breathing ◦ C: Circulation – Check for signs of life and severe bleeding

Head Tilt This is to open the airway Infant and small children do not need their head tilted as far back!

Checking for circulation Adult and child ◦Carotid Artery in the neck Infant ◦Brachial artery in the upper arm

Practicing skills On page 18 you will find the skill sheet for checking an ill or injured person Practice all steps, 1-6 I will be around to assess!!!!