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First Aid for Workplace Accidents

Workplace accidents result to days off from work and loss of productivity, and in some cases, the loss of a life. This is the reason why the workplace needs to be made as safe as possible. It should also be equipped with the right emergency equipment and workers need to know the basics in First Aid in order to respond to any emergencies before paramedics arrive. !amples of common workplace accidents "ommon workplace in#uries need to be treated, no matter how minor they may be. $ealing with heavy machinery, to!ic substances and other ha%ardous materials in the workplace can predispose one to accidents and in#uries that result to the loss of a limb or even a life. "ommon accidents in the workplace include& Burns, Lacerations, Fractures, Compression injuries, Eye injuries, Severe bleeding First aid tips for such common accidents There are basic first aid tips for the various work'related in#uries. (owever, prior to conducting any form of first aid on a co'worker, it is important that both the in#ured person and the co'worker are located in a safe place, far from any other forms of danger. When handling burns, cool the affected part with water and immediately take the casualty to the hospital. If the burn is caused by caustic chemicals, keep if free from contamination and remove clothing that is not stuck to the skin. "ool the affected part with water for )* minutes or until the patient is taken to the hospital. For severe bleeding, apply pressure near the wound to stop the bleeding. levate the limb past heart level and apply a dressing .+andage the whole area in place and take to the emergency room if severe. $o not attempt to set broken bones. $o not attempt to move a person with possible spinal in#uries, unless they are in immediate danger. For eye in#uries, wash the eyes with clean water or sterile fluid. $o not attempt to remove anything embedded on the eye. I. BLEE I!"

#vervie$ Severe bleeding involves loss of large amount of blood, This may occur externally through natural openings, like mouth, A cut on the skin too can lead to bleeding, Internal bleeding occurs due to an injury to blood vessel Causes Accidents/Falls, lo! to the head, Injuries, like scalp !ounds, Tooth "xtraction,#ertain medications, Illnesses like $%emophilia, Scurvy, #ancer, Thrombocytopenia, Aplastic Anemia, &eukemia, %emorrhage, 'eptic (lcer, 'latelet )isorder, &iver )isease, Septicemia* Symptoms

)ischarge of blood from a !ound, other areas, like mouth/ear %reatment

ruising,

lood in stool/urine,

lood coming from

+ash hands !ell before administering to patient, +ear synthetic gloves, ,ake the victim lie do!n, Slightly elevate the legs, If possible keep the affected area elevated, -emove any obvious debris/particle, Apply direct pressure using clean cloth/bandage, (se hand if cloth is not available, Apply pressure continuously for at least ./ minutes, )o not remove the cloth to check the bleeding, %old the bandage in place using an adhesive tape, If bleeding seeps through bandage, do not remove it, Add extra bandage on top of the first one, Apply direct pressure on the artery if necessary, The pressure points for arm00belo! arm0 pit/above elbo!, For leg00behind knee/near groin, S1uee2e the artery keeping finger flat, #ontinue applying pressure on the !ound, 3nce bleeding stops immobili2e the affected part, See a doctor Consult a doctor If bleeding does not stop, If bleeding occurs through nose, ears etc, #oughing up blood,4omiting, ruising/deep !ounds, Abdominal tenderness, Fracture, Shock Steps %o &void )o not try to replace a displaced organ, 5ust cover the !ound !ith a clean cloth, )o not try to remove an embedded object

II.

&S%'(&

#vervie$ It is a chronic lung disease, It creates narro!ing of air passages of the lung, 'roduces difficulty in breathing6 Symptoms +hee2ing, #ough and cold, Tightness in the chest, Sticky mucus, )isturbed sleep, reathlessness Causes %ereditary factors, "nvironmental factors like dust, mite, pollen, 3ccupational exposure to irritants, )ietary #hanges, &ack of exercise &sthma %riggering Factors #olds and viruses, Irritants like #igarette smoke, scent, pollution , #old air or change in !eather, 'hysical exertion, Allergens like dust, mite, pollen, furs , Some medications, Infections, Stress (yths about asthma It is contagious, It cannot be controlled, Asthma medicines are addictive

(anagement of &sthma Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled , 7eep the house clean, (se hard!ood floors or tile, Avoid carpets in house, Avoid pets !ith fur or feathers, (se clean bed sheets 8 pillo! covers, (se bed made of synthetic materials, (se air conditioner, ,aintain lo! humidity at home %reatment Anti0inflammatory drugs include9 $Steroid Inhalers, Sodium #hromoglycate* Inhalers / #apsules, Treatment : ronchodilators, #ommon bronchodilators include9 $Salbutamol Inhalers, Terbutaline Tabs*, #onsult your 'ulmonologist

III.

Cardio)pulmonary *esuscitation +C,*-

&bout Cardiac &rrest 3ften caused by abnormal heart rhythm, This aberrant rhythm is ventricular fibrillation $4F*, )uring 4F heart stops pumping blood, 'atient may stop breathing, ;o pulse may be detected, A shock to the heart, called defibrillation, re1uired, )efibrillation stops 4F, restores heart function .hat is C,*/ "mergency life0saving measure, #ombination of rescue breathing 8 chest compressions, )one on unconscious/ non0breathing patient, )one on persons suffering cardiac arrest, Also for near0dro!ning/ asphyxiation/ trauma cases, #'- conducts defibrillation, Supports heart pumping for short duration, Allo!s oxygen to reach brain, uys time till help arrives, ,ore effective !hen done as early as possible %'E 0I%&L S%E,S Clear the air$ay Assess if the person is conscious / breathing , &ay the person on his back on a hard surface, (sing a head tilt 0chin lift open his air!ay, #heck for breathing sound, If not breathing, start mouth0to0mouth breathing (outh) to)mouth breathing 'inch the person<s nostril shut, Seal his mouth !ith your o!n, =ive the first breath, lasting one second, +atch if chest rises, If it rises, give second rescue breath, If it does not rise, give a head tilt0 chin lift, ;o! give second rescue breath *estore circulation through compression 'lace heel of your palm on patient<s chest , 'lace your other hand above first, 7eep elbo!s straight, 'ush do!n using upper body !eight $compress*, 'ush hard and fast, After >/ compressions, clear air!ay, =ive t!o rescue breaths, This is one cycle, =ive ?// compressions /minute, #ontinue #'- till medical help arrives ,rognosis

If done !ell, #'- saves life, ;ormaly is restored in rescued person, #'- can also be ineffective, causing death, In some cases, causes injuries / damages Caution -ibs/heart/lungs/ liver may be injured, After #'-, medical attention should be given I0. ISL#C&%I#! islocation

&bout

An injury !hich forces bones out of their sockets, )islocation is a common sports injury, It temporarily deforms or immobili2es the joint Causes (sually caused by a trauma like a fall/blo!, -heumatoid arthritis also causes dislocation Symptoms 'ain, Tenderness, )ifficulty to move injured part, S!elling, )iscoloration %reatment #all medical help as soon as possible, )o not move the joint or try to place it back, 'lace ice to control s!elling, If skin is cut, clean gently and bandage !ith sterile gau2e, Sling or splint the injury in its original position, If injury is serious, check for breathing, If not breathing, provide Cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), "levate the feet up to ?. inches, #over the patient !ith a blanket ,revention +ear protective gear !hile sporting, ,ake home environment safe, Teach safe habits to children, )o not stand on chairs or other unstable objects, "xercise care !hile using bath oils, ,ake use of hand rails !hile using the stairs

0. B1*!S
.hat are burns/ Injuries due to heat/ chemicals/ electricity/ radiation, #ommon heat injuries due to fire, hot li1uids, steam, urns due to heat / chemicals 0 through skin contact, Severe burns affect muscles, fat and bones, 3lder people/ children 0 particularly vulnerable Categories of burns First, second and third degree

#ategori2ation depends on severity of tissue damage, #heck extent of burn before deciding self treatment, Seek help if burn is over a couple of inches in diameter, or, If it involves large sections of the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or a major joint 2. First)degree burns

Injuries are superficial / mild , S!elling8 redness of the injured area, 'ain develops, ;o blisters seen, urned area becomes !hite on touch, Takes >0@ days to heal %reatment -emove patient from heat source , -emove the burnt clothing, -un cool !ater over burnt area, =ently clean the injured area, =ently dry, Apply anti biotic such as Silver Sulphadia2ine, (se a sterile bandage to cover burns, Take tetanus vaccination, if re1uired 3. Second)degree burns urns extends to middle skin layer, dermis , S!elling, redness and pain observed, urnt area may turn !hite on touch, listers develop, that oo2e a clear fluid, Scars may develop, -estricts movement, if injury occurs at joint, )ehydration may occur, %ealing time varies, depends on extent of injury %reatment #lean the affected area thoroughly , =ently dry, Apply antibiotic cream over affected area, ,ake the patient lie do!n, 7eep burnt body part at a raised level, Skin graft may be re1uired, 'hysical therapy may be essential to aid mobility,Splints may be used to rest affected joints, %ospitali2ation is essential 4. %hird)degree burns )amage occurs to all > skin layers, )estroys adjacent hair follicles, s!eat glands, nerve endings, &ack of pain due to destroyed nerves, Injured area does not turn !hite on touch, ;o blisters observed, S!elling occurs, Skin develops leathery texture, )iscoloration of skin observed, Scars develop, #rusty surfaces $"schars* develop0impairs circulation, )ehydration occurs resulting in shock, Symptoms may !orsen !ith time, )isfigurement may result, %ealing depends on extent of injury, A/B body surface injury results in death, @/B injury in elderly, fatal %reatment -e1uires immediate hospital care , )ehydration treated through intravenous fluid supply, 3xygen is administered, "schars are surgically opened, 'eriodically run clean cool !ater over burns, ;utritious diet helps to heal 1uickly, -egular monitoring essential, ,ental )epression treated by anti0 depressants ,revention

Install smoke alarm in your home , "mploy <children friendly< safety measures at home, Avoid synthetic clothing !hile cooking, #arry out fire drills at home and !ork place

0I.

C'E(IC&L B1*!S

#vervie$ %appens at school/!ork/ home, -isk is greater at place of !ork/factories, %appens as a result of accident / assault, Injury caused by coagulation / necrosis of tissue, )amage depends on exposure / time / chemical Causes Strong acids or bases $alkali*, #hemical Irritants Symptoms Irritation / burning, -edness of skin, 'ain / numbness, reathlessness, 4ision loss, if eye is affected, %ead ache Symptoms in severe cases )i22iness, Severe cough, Sei2ures, &o! blood pressure, Irregular heart, #ardiac arrest %reatment -emove patient from accident site , +ash injury !ith tepid !ater liberally, Identify chemical for effective therapy, Seek medical treatment, I4 fluids need to be administered, 'ain medications and antibiotics needed, +ounds cleaned and bandaged, Follo! 0up care compulsory, #onsultation !ith specialist is a must ,revention +hile using chemicals, follo! safety precautions, Avoid overexposure to chemicals, Store chemicals safely in containers, 7eep them out of reach of children, Avoid misuse of hair, skin, nail care products, Avoid mixing different chemicals, Avoid using toxic substances in kitchen /near food, (se fume0emitting products in ventilated areas listers, #oughing,

0II.

Electrical injury

#vervie$ Injuries caused !hen electric current passes through body , Source may be natural or man0made .hat happens during electric shoc5/ ,akes you fall do!n, ,uscle contraction, Sei2ures, )ehydration, Fractures,#lotting of blood, Tissue death $narcosis*, -espiratory/%eart/7idney failure urns,

Steps to follo$ )o not attempt to move the victim from current source , First step is to s!itch off the current source, 3ther!ise, move the source using a !ooden stick, Attend to the victim, #heck for breathing, ;o breathing, do Cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), #all emergency medical aid, If breathing, do a physical examination, Treat for minor burns, -e0 establish vital functions, "xcessive burns may re1uire hospitali2ation/ surgery, Supportive care must be provided ,revention 'roper design, installation, maintenance of electric devices , "ducating the public regarding electrical devices,7eep electrical gadgets out of childrenCs reach, &earn to respect electricity and electrical devices 0III. F&I!%I!"

&bout Fainting Fainting occurs due to decreased blood supply to brain , A fainting spell is usually very brief, It may or may not have medical significance Common Causes Anxiety, "motional upset, StressSevere pain, Skipping meals, Standing up too fast, Standing for a long time in a cro!d, Some medications, )iabetes, lood 'ressure Symptoms efore fainting, a person may experience the follo!ing9;ausea, =iddiness, "xcessive s!eating, )im vision, -apid heart beat or palpitations %reatment Fainting is a medical emergency, till proven other!ise, +hen a person feels faint0, ,ake them sit do!n or lie do!n, If sitting, position head bet!een knees, +hen a person faints, position him on his back, #heck to see if air!ays are clear, -estore blood flo! by , &oosening clothing/belts/collars, "levate feet above head level, 'atient should become normal !ithin a minute, If not, seek medical help, #heck if breathing/pulse is normal, If not, do Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) ,revention +hen symptoms appear, lie do!n, Try do avoid stress and anxiety, #arefully evaluate your medications, Take care of underlying medical conditions

I6.

F*&C%1*E

.hat is fracture/ A broken or cracked bone, 3ccurs !hen pressure is applied to bone, 3ccurs !ith / !ithout displacement of bone fragments %ypes 3pen fracture& ,kin breaks causing open wound #losed fracture& ,kin not broken #omplicated fractures& $amage of ad#acent organs Stress fracture& (airline crack due to repeated stress =reenstick fracture& In children-s fle!ible bones Symptoms Severe pain, )ifficulty in movement, S!elling/ bruising / bleeding, )eformity / abnormal t!ist of limb, Tenderness on applying pressure First)aid )epends on type 8 location of fracture For open fractures #ontrol bleeding before treatment , -inse and dress the !ound For open 7 closed fractures #heck the breathing, #alm the person, "xamine for other injuries, Immobili2e the broken !ound, Apply ice to reduce pain / s!elling, #onsult a doctor # !#% ,assage the affected area, Straighten the broken bone, ,ove !ithout support to broken bone, ,ove joints above / belo! the fracture, =ive oral li1uids / food ,revention +ear protective pads / helmets !hen driving , Teach children / practice, safe habits

6.

Food Borne Illness

#vervie$ 3ccurs by eating contaminated food, rought about by bacterial/viral/ parasitic toxins, acteria is most common cause of food contamination , acteria is present in most

ra! food, -a! meat /poultry/ sea food/ eggs9 increased risk , Tomatoes/sprout /lettuceare also contamination0prone, #ontamination occurs bet!een production and preparation #hildren/pregnant !omen/ elderlcy/immuno0deficient at greater risk Symptoms -esembles intestinal flu, &asts for fe! days or !eeks Common Symptoms are ;ausea, Abdominal cramps, vomiting, )iarrhea, !hich may be bloody, Fever, )ehydration Severe Symptoms include, Shallo! breath, -apid pulse, 'ale skin, #hills, #hest pain Severity may lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, in children)eaths may occur due to severe complications %reatment ,ost cases are mild and are treated by taking fluids, Fluids may be taken orally or intravenously, Severe cases must be hospitali2ed ,revention +ash hands !ell before preparing food , #lean surfaces and kitchen counters before cooking, #ook food at appropriate temperatures enough to kill bacteria, -efrigerate food !ithin t!o hours of cooking, Allo! enough space in fridge for cool air circulation

6I.

'E&*% &%%&C8

.hat is heart attac5/ 3ccurs !hen blood supply to vital organs gets blocked, DE/years / menopausal !omen at greater risk, 3ccurs !ith / !ithout chest pain, Sudden arrest of breathing / heart function, ,ay result in cardiopulmonary arrest, #lot in the arteries blocks blood supply #ccurs due to9 )eposits of calcium / cholesterol, %ereditary factors, Tobacco, 3besity, %igh blood pressure, "motional stress, Inflammatory disease of arteries, Trauma / disease of heart

Symptoms #hest pain, Shoulder/arm pain, Shortness of breath, S!eating, %eartburn, ;ausea, Abdominal pain First aid Try to relax, &oosen tight clothes, Take medicines if any, 'ain subsides !ithin > min of medicine intakeIf not, see a doctor6 =ive artifical respiration if re1uired

.ive Cardiopulmonary *esuscitation +C,*- & a. If no pulse is detected b. +y placing palm on chest to pump /0 pumps are followed by ) artificial respiration"ontinue till ambulance 1 doctor arrives ,revention -outine health check0up, Avoid stress, Fuit smoking / alcohol, "at sensibly, #ontrol blood pressure / diabetes, #ontrol !eight 6II. 'E&% C*&(,S

#vervie$ %eat cramps are involuntary muscle spasms, They are caused by deficiency of !ater and sodium, %eat cramps are painful, may be severe and prolonged, %eavy exercising in hot !eather causes excessive s!eating, This causes electrolyte deficiency resulting in muscle cramps 2uscles most affected are the voluntary muscles of' a. "alves b. Arms c. Thighs d. +ack e. Abdomen %eat cramps are the least serious of all heat injuries, It is a !arning sign for heat exhaustion *is5 factors ;egative sodium balance, )iuretic medications, Absence of acclimati2ation / adaptation Causes %eat, )ehydration, "xcessive s!eating, &oss of body salts, ,uscle stress, 'oor body condition Symptoms Some of the most common symptoms are9 )i22y feeling, Fainting, "xhaustion, ;ausea, 4omiting, -apid heartbeat, %ot/s!eaty skin %reatment -est briefly and cool do!n, ,anual pressure / massage must be applied to the affected muscle)rink one 1uart of !ater !ith one teaspoon of salt, )rink some clear juice / electrolyte0containing sports drink ,'ractice gentle stretching exercise of the affected muscle, Seek medical help if the cramps remain after ? hour ,rognosis %eat cramps usually improves !ith, An electrolyte drink, #ool shade, -est ,revention

Ade1uate fluids must be taken periodically, Fluids must be taken before feeling thirsty, Avoid heavy s!eaty exercises in humid conditions, ,ake sure to drink fluids !hile exercising 6III. 'E&% E6'&1S%I#!

#vervie$ %eat exhaustion is a heat 0 related disorder, %ere, loss of fluids takes place, This decreases blood flo! to vital organs, leading to shock Causes %eat exhaustion caused by excessive heat , Increased by overexertion / s!eating / hot, humid climate *is5 Factors 'oor circulation, -ecurrent Illness, ,edications like diuretics / laxatives / anti histamines / anti depressants, Goung children and older people at risk, even !hen inactive Symptoms +eakness / di22iness, %eadache / nausea, #old / moist skin, 'aleness, )ry tongue / thirst, 4omiting,&oss of appetite, "xcessive s!eating, -apid / !eak heart beat, Fast / shallo! breathing, ,uscle fatigue#ramps %reatment a3 "ooling the body -emove the person to a shady place, &oosen tight0fitting clothing, -emove extra clothes, #ool the person by sponging !ith !et cloth / to!el b3 (ydrating =ive fluids like sports drink / fruit or vegetable juices , +ater containing electrolytes may be given, =ive fluid every ?E0./ minutes, Avoid coffee and alcohol Consult & octor If the symptoms don<t clear up in >/ minutes , Seek emergency help in case of , 'hysical collapse, &oss of consciousness ,revention )o not indulge in drunken driving, 'ractice safe methods !hile driving / sporting / other activities, Al!ays follo! safety rules, Supervise the activities of children 6I0. ,#IS#!I!"

#vervie$ 'oisons are substances that cause injury, illness or death, These events are caused by a chemical activity in the cells, 'oisons can be injected, inhaled or s!allo!ed, 'oisoning should be suspected if a person is sick for unkno!n reason, 'oor ventilation can aggravate Inhalation poisoning, First aid is critical in saving the life of victims Causes ,edications, )rug overdose, 3ccupational exposure, #leaning detergents/paints, #arbon mono oxide gas from furnace, heaters, Insecticides, #ertain cosmetics, #ertain household plants, animals, Food poisoning $ otulism* Symptoms lue lips, Skin -ashes, )ifficulty in breathing, )iarrhea, 4omiting/;ausea, Fever, %ead ache, =iddiness/dro!siness, )ouble vision, Abdominal/chest pain, 'alpitations/Irritability, &oss of appetite/bladder control, ;umbness, ,uscle t!itching, Sei2ures, +eakness, &oss of consciousness %reatment Seek immediate medical help , ,ean!hile,, Try and identify the poison if possible , #heck for signs like burns around mouth, breathing difficulty or vomiting, Induce vomiting if poison s!allo!ed, In case of convulsions, protect the person from self injury, If the vomit falls on the skin, !ash it thoroughly, 'osition the victim on the left till medical help arrives For inhalation poisoning Seek immediate emergency help , =et help before you attempt to rescue others, %old a !et cloth to cover your nose and mouth, 3pen all the doors and !indo!s, Take deep breaths before you begin the rescue, Avoid lighting a match, #heck the patient<s breathing, )o a #'-, if necessary, If the patient vomits, take steps to prevent choking Steps to &void Avoid giving an unconscious victim anything orally , )o not induce vomiting unless told by a medical personnel, )o not give any medication to the victim unless directed by a doctor, )o not neutrali2e the poison !ith limejuice/honey ,revention Store medicines, cleaning detergents, mos1uito repellants and paints carefully , 7eep all potentially poisonous substances out of children<s reach, &abel the poisons in your house, Avoid keeping poisonous plants in or around house, Take care !hile eating products such as berries, roots or mushrooms, Teach children the need to exercise caution

60.

S,*&I!

#vervie$ Sprain is the stretch/tear of ligament connecting bones, 3ccurs in both the upper 8 lo!er part of the body,,ost common sites 0 ankle/!rists/knee Causes Trauma/accidents, &ifting heavy objects, Sporting injuries Symptoms 'ain, S!elling, &umps other than s!elling, ;umbness, Inability to move the joint %reatment Apply a cold compress to injured area for ./ min , This may be done H0I times a day, (se a plastic bag !ith crushed ice, !rapped in a to!el, (se compression bandages to reduce s!elling, 7eep the injured leg elevated on a pillo!, Take anti inflammatory pills if necessary, Take rest for the recommended period, +hen pain/s!elling is diminished, do recommended exercises Consult a doctor If the follo!ing occurs0 Severe pain/numbness, Inability to move the joint, Inability to assess the severity of injury Steps %o &void )o not return to normal activities if not completely cured, This could lead to the problem turning chronic ,revention Avoid exercising/sporting !hen tired, "at a !ell balanced meal0for healthy muscles, Avoid unhealthy !eight gain, "xercise daily0particularly stretching exercises, )o !arm0up before exercising, 'ractice safety measures, like avoiding clutter, -un on even surface, )o not !ear ill0fitting shoes ruising/redness at site of injury,

60I. S1! B1*!


#vervie$ Sunburn is a burn of the skin, -esults from overexposure to the sun, ;ormal exposure results in the production of 4itamin ), ,ost of us become sun burnt at some time in life, Sunburn causes a lot of discomfort, It can cause premature ageing/cancer, #ommon in children/young adults Causes Sun<s ultraviolet rays during outdoor activities, Tanning beds, Traveling to places at high altitude

*is5 factors &ight0skinned or fair0haired people, -ecent exposure to sun, 'rior skin injury, Infections like %erpes, 'orphyria , #ertain ,edications like antibiotics, anti0psoriatic drugs Symptoms The skin injury begins !ithin >/ minutes of exposure to the sun , -edness of the skinIrritation, lister, 'ain, Skin burning, Skin loss, )ehydration, Flu0like symptoms, Infection, Fever, If very severe, shock leading to death may occur %reatment Self)'elp =et out of the sun, #over the exposed area, Take a cool bath, (se a cool compress available commercially like, uro! solution, )issolve solution in one pint of !ater, Soak a gau2e or clean cloth in it , +ring it !ell Apply to sun burnt area for ./ minutes, #hange the cloth and solution every . hours, Apply aloe0based solution, Avoid using oils, bath salts, perfumed lotions etc, Avoid scrubbing/shaving(se a gentle to!elStay out of the sun !hile sun burnt Consult a octor In case of0 'ain, %eadache/confusion, listers;ausea/vomiting, &oss of consciousness, Sunburn being present along !ith other medical condition ,revention +ear hats, long0sleeved dress, long pants !hile out in the sun , Try to avoid exposure to sun, (se sun0block creams during exposure to sun, Select a suitable S'F number for the sun block cream, Sun locks should be reapplied every .0> hours, Avoid tanning beds

Acute upper airway obstruction


An acute upper airway obstruction is a blockage of the upper airway, which can be in the trachea, voice bo! 4laryngeal3, or throat 4pharyngeal3 areas.

Causes
"auses of acute upper airway obstruction include& Allergic reactions in which the trachea or throat swell closed, including allergic reactions to a bee sting, peanuts, antibiotics 4penicillin3, and blood pressure medications 4A" inhibitors3, "hemical burns and reactions, "roup, piglottitis 4infection of the structure separating the trachea from the esophagus3, Fire or burns from breathing in smoke, Foreign bodies '' such as peanuts and other breathed'in foods, pieces of a balloon, buttons, coins, and small toys, 5iral or bacteria infections, 6eritonsillar abscess, 7etropharyngeal abscess, Throat cancer, Tracheomalacia, Trauma, 5ocal cord problems

Symptoms
,ymptoms vary depending on the cause, but some symptoms are common to all types of airway blockage. They include&

Agitation or fidgeting, +luish color to the skin 4cyanosis3, "hanges in consciousness, "hoking, "onfusion, $ifficulty breathing, .asping for air, 6anic, 8nconsciousness, Whee%ing, crowing, whistling, or other unusual breathing noises indicating breathing difficulty

E:ams and %ests


6hysical e!amination may show& $ecreased breath sounds in the lungs, 7apid, shallow, or slowed breathing

%reatment
If the person has a complete obstruction and is unable to speak or breathe, the (eimlich maneuver may be lifesaving.

#utloo5 +,rognosis6rompt treatment is often successful. (owever, the condition is dangerous and may be fatal, even if treated.

,ossible Complications
Inability to relieve the obstruction can cause& +rain damage, +reathing failure, $eath

.hen to Contact a (edical ,rofessional


Airway obstruction is an emergency. It is a good idea to learn how to clear an airway of a foreign body by using a method such as the (eimlich maneuver. $iseases in which airway obstruction develops over a period of hours will allow time to get to a hospital. If an acute airway obstruction occurs, call 9// or your local emergency number for medical help. $o what you can to maintain breathing until medical help arrives.

,revention
6revention depends on the cause of the upper airway obstruction. The following methods may help prevent an obstruction& at slowly and chew food completely. $on-t drink too much alcohol before or while eating. :eep small ob#ects away from young children. 2ake sure dentures fit properly

E:pired &ir *esuscitation

!pired Air 7esuscitation 4 A73 is the method by which a rescuer breathes for a person who is in respiratory arrest. It is most commonly referred to as ;mouth'to'mouth resuscitation<. It is an effective method for sustaining life, as a rescuer breathes out sufficient o!ygen to keep the victims body from suffering damages due to lack of o!ygen.

If there is no circulation present 4no heartbeat3 proceed directly to "67 Certain conditions7emergencies $here this rescue breathing is needed are9 "hoking, (eroin overdose, =ear drowning, "ertain bites and stings 4anaphylactic shock3, Asthma, mphysema, A7 should be performed when a person is&, not breathing, or is only making occasional gasps or weak attempts at breathing, unconscious, suffering cyanosis 4skin1lips is a blue color due to lack of air3

%here are five methods for delivering E&*.


?6 ,outh0to0,outh !here the rescuer seals the victimCs mouth !ith their o!n mouth, pinches the soft part of the nose closed $gently, but firmly*, and then blo!s air into the victimCs mouth6 .6 ,outh0to0;ose is used !hen the victim has sustained facial injuries that prevent using the mouth6 The rescuer closes the victimCs mouth, covers the nose !ith their mouth, breathes gently, then releases the victimCs ja! to allo! exhalation6 >6 ,outh0to0;ose080,outh is the preferred method !hen resuscitating a child, as the rescuerCs mouth can cover and seal both the childCs nose and mouth6 H6 ,outh0to0,ask is safest method $especially if you do not kno! the victim or their medical health* and also the most desirable for rescue breathing as it lessens the risk of cross0infection6 It !orks in similar fashion as mouth0to0mouth6 ,asks come in various forms but they are all used the same !ay6 The mask is fitted firmly over the victimCs nose and mouth and the rescuer delivers "A- via the valve or tube thus avoiding direct contact !ith the victimCs mouth or exhaled air6 E6 "A- must be effective to be helpful to the victim6 An JeffectiveC breath is effective if the chest rises and falls !ith each breath given by the rescuer6 Starting your rescue breathing !ith five initial breaths !ill usually result in t!o effective breaths. uring E&*, stop inflation once there is visible rise of the chest. o not over inflate; ,*#CE 1*E F#* E&* If you are not alone, send someone to go call for help. If you are alone, you may need to leave the victim briefly to call for aid yourself. >ay the person on their back, tilting the head back and lifting the chin If administering mouth'to' mouth gently pinch the soft part of the nose closed and open the mouth, keeping the chin lifted. Take a deep breath and place your lips around the victims mouth, make sure you create a good seal. .ive 0 initial breaths ? this step is brief, taking appro!imately /* seconds. 2ake sure the chest rises with each breath. Watch the chest as you breath in' once the chest starts to rise 4about ) seconds3, stop

and begin the ne!t breath after the chest starts to fall, you do not want to over inflate the lungs. @ut of the first 0 breaths, about ) will be effective. :eep these age rates in mind while giving A7. Infants 4newborn'/) months3 and young children 4/'A yrs3 require one effective breath every B seconds' or )* per minute. @lder children 49'/C yrs3 and adults 4/0D3 require one effective breath ever C seconds' /0 1min. ,ee below for additional info on how to breathe for different age classes. If you are having difficulty giving an effective breath check the victims mouth for an obstruction. If one is present remove it. 7e'check to make sure the head is tilted back and chin is tilted up. Also check circulation. If a pulse cannot be found proceed to "67 Immediately. If a pulse is found, circulation is ok, continue A7 until the person starts breathing on their own, or help arrives and medical personnel can take over for you. If person begins breathing on their own, but remains unconscious, place them in the recovery position. ,tay with them and continue checking their vital signs 4breathing and pulse remain normal3 until help arrives. (ow to breathe for different age classes. For infants, you want to implement a method called ;frog breathing< or ;puffing<, where the rescuer fills his or her mouth with air and ;puffs< it into the infant<s mouth. There will be enough pressure and volume to satisfy the lung<s requirements, but not enough to impact on the stomach. When breathing into a young child ensure that you modify the force of the breaths. If delivered too forcefully, the air will be directed into the stomach, which may cause the child to vomit. For older children and adults use slow breaths.

Spinal injury
The spinal cord contains the nerves that carry messages between your brain and body. The cord passes through your neck and back. A spinal cord in#ury is very serious because it can cause loss of movement 4paralysis3 below the site of the in#ury.

Causes
A spinal cord in#ury may be caused by& ullet or stab !ound, Traumatic injury to the face, neck, head, chest, or back $for example, a car accident*, )iving accident, "lectric shock, "xtreme t!isting of the middle of the body, &anding on the head during a sports injury, Fall from a great height

Symptoms
,ymptoms of a spinal cord in#ury may include& %ead that is in an unusual position, ;umbness or tingling that spreads do!n an arm or leg, +eakness, )ifficulty !alking, 'aralysis $loss of movement* of arms or legs, ;o bladder or bo!el control, Shock $pale, clammy skinK bluish lips and

fingernailsK acting da2ed or semiconscious*, $unconsciousness*, Stiff neck, headache, or neck pain

&ack

of

alertness

First &id
=ever move anyone who you think may have a spinal in#ury, unless it is absolutely necessary. For e!ample, if you need to get the person out of a burning car.3 8eep the person absolutely still and safe until medical help arrives. #all the local emergency number, such as A??6 %old the person<s head and neck in the position in !hich they !ere found6 )3 ;3T try to straighten the neck6 )o not allo! the neck to bend or t!ist6 )o not allo! the person to get up and !alk unassisted6 If the person is not alert or responding to you& #heck the person<s breathing and circulation6 If necessary, begin rescue breathing and #'-6 )3 ;3T tilt the head back !hen doing #'-6 Instead, place your fingers on the ja! on each side of the head6 &ift the ja! for!ard6 $o not roll the person over unless the person is vomiting or choking on blood, or you need to check for breathing. If you need to roll the person over& T!o people are needed6 3ne person should be located at the person<s headK the other at the person<s side6 7eep the person<s head, neck, and back in line !ith each other !hile you roll him or her onto one side6

# !#%
$@ =@T bend, twist, or lift the person-s head or body. $@ =@T attempt to move the person before medical help arrives unless it is absolutely necessary. $@ =@T remove a helmet if a spinal in#ury is suspected.

.hen to Contact a (edical ,rofessional


"all you local emergency number 4such as 9//3 if you think someone has a spinal cord in#ury. $@ =@T move the person unless there is urgent danger.

,revention
The following may lower your risk of spinal in#ury& +ear seat belts6 )o not drink and drive6 )o not dive into pools, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of !ater, particularly if you cannot determine the depth of the !ater or if the !ater is not clear6 )o not tackle or dive into a person !ith your head6

1nconsciousness ) first aid


8nconsciousness is when a person is unable to respond to people and activities. @ften, this is called a coma or being in a comatose state. @ther changes in awareness can occur without becoming unconscious. 2edically, these are called Ealtered mental statusE or Echanged mental status.E They include sudden confusion, disorientation, or stupor. 8nconsciousness or any other ,8$$ = change in mental status must be treated as a medical emergency. If someone is awake but less alert than usual, ask a few simple questions, such as& What is your nameF What is the dateF (ow old are youF Wrong answers or an inability to answer the question suggest a change in mental status.

Considerations
+eing asleep is not the same thing as being unconscious. A sleeping person will respond to loud noises or gentle shaking '' an unconscious person will not. An unconscious person cannot cough or clear his or her throat. This can lead to death if the airway becomes blocked.

Causes
8nconsciousness can be caused by nearly any ma#or illness or in#ury, as well as substance abuse and alcohol use. +rief unconsciousness 4or fainting3 is often caused by dehydration, low blood sugar, or temporary low blood pressure. (owever, it can also be caused by serious heart or nervous system problems. Gour doctor will determine if you need tests. @ther causes of fainting include straining during a bowel movement, coughing very hard, or breathing very fast 4hyperventilating3.

Symptoms
The person will be unresponsive 4does not respond to activity, touch, sound, or other stimulation3. The following symptoms may occur after a person has been unconscious& "onfusion, $rowsiness, (eadache, Inability to speak or move parts of his or her body 4see stroke symptoms3, >ight'headedness, >oss of bowel or bladder control 4incontinence3, 7apid heartbeat 4palpitations3, ,tupor

First &id
1. "all or tell someone to call <22.

2. "heck the person-s airway, breathing, and pulse frequently. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and "67. 3. If the person is breathing and lying on the back, and you do not think there is a spinal in#ury, carefully roll the person toward you onto the side. +end the top leg so both hip and knee are at right angles. .ently tilt the head back to keep the airway open. If breathing or pulse stops at any time, roll the person on to his back and begin "67. C. If you think there is a spinal in#ury, leave the person where you found them 4as long as breathing continues3. If the person vomits, roll the entire body at one time to the side. ,upport the neck and back to keep the head and body in the same position while you roll. 0. :eep the person warm until medical help arrives. H. If you see a person fainting, try to prevent a fall. >ay the person flat on the floor and raise the feet about /) inches. I. If fainting is likely due to low blood sugar, give the person something sweet to eat or drink when they become conscious.

# !#%
$@ =@T give an unconscious person any food or drink. $@ =@T leave the person alone. $@ =@T place a pillow under the head of an unconscious person. $@ =@T slap an unconscious person-s face or splash water on the face to try to revive him.

.hen to Contact a (edical ,rofessional


Call <22 if the person is unconscious and& $oes not return to consciousness quickly 4within a minute3, (as fallen down or been in#ured, especially if bleeding, (as diabetes, (as sei%ures, (as lost bowel or bladder control, Is not breathing, Is pregnant, Is over age 0* Call <22 if the person regains consciousness but& Feels chest pain, pressure, or discomfort, or has a pounding or irregular heartbeat, "an-t speak, has vision problems, or can-t move the arms and legs

,revention
Avoid situations where your blood sugar level gets too low. Avoid standing in one place too long without moving, especially if you are prone to fainting. .et enough fluid, particularly in warm weather. If you feel like you are about to faint, lie down or sit with your head bent forward between your knees.

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