Tag Archives: Basic Life Support Recert

Burns – Part 2 “Chemical / Electrical & Radiation”

Burns – Part 2 “Chemical / Electrical & Radiation”

Once again “Burns are injuries to the body’s tissues caused by either chemicals, electricity, heat or radiation. As burns can come from so many different sources” For this section to help you see the information a little more clearly lets focus on physical causes of burns or “Burns from an Energy Source“, this will also enforce how “easy” burns are once you get the science of energy and how the damage to your body from Thermal Energy “Hot or Cold” is relatively similar in how we treat it. A little slogan to remember about Thermal Energy is “Hot is fast but Cold is Slow“, this little saying will help you see that if a burn from “heat” can happen fast, then we can treat it fast, but just like it takes a while for an ice cube to form “slow” that means that your body will likewise take damage from cold “Slowly“. This does not include Dry Ice, as Dry ice has an MSDS and we will always refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet to ensure we use the correct methods of treating injuries caused by chemicals.

Chemical Burns “Wet or Dry“:

There are so many chemicals in our society it would be almost impossible to provide an accurate First Aid skill for all of them if we didn’t understand the nature of chemicals and how they work. What we must remember is that many chemicals create a “Chemical Reaction when exposed to a catalyst” this can either be another chemical, substance or fluid. The chemical reaction against the body or flesh creates a burn like symptom that may not stop until the chemical is neutralized or even removed entirely from the flesh. “Always refer to the MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet for chemical exposure along with your 911 Emergency Response coordinator for further treatments

Electrical Burns:

Burns from Electricity are very dangerous and can have many long lasting side effects. As your body uses electricity in many of its natural functions exposure to foreign electrical sources can disrupt your natural electrical balance and cause damage “Heart Rhythm for example“. This is only part of the Electrical burn as electricity always requires 2 things “Entrance & Exit” through the “Path of least resistance“, this means that depending on the type of electricity “Volts or Amps” the person’s organs may be disrupted and damaged “along” the path the electricity takes “Entrance & Exit“. With electrical burns always expect 2 wounds. The severity of the damage will also be linked to the “Amount of electricity the victim was exposed to“. Never approach a victim who is “being” electrocuted, as your body is mainly water you may act as a conductor and be electrocuted yourself even while wearing rubber shoes. “Always consult your 911 Emergency coordinator for further options & treatments

Radiation Burns:

Our Sun, which has radiant energy, can cause burns to the skin. Other sources of radiant energy that can cause burns are X-Rays, electronics, radiation from radioactive material and radiation treatments used for illness like cancer. Even intense light (welders flash) or reflection from sunlight can burn. “If you were exposed to a radiation Source” or an object marked or identified as radioactive call 911 immediately and consult your Emergency coordinator for further safety measures to protect yourself, “never approach a radiation source without proper training and Personal Protective Equipment” Exposure to radiation sources for even a short period may cause long lasting side effects, even death.

Prevention:

“Chemical Burns”

  • -Store Chemicals in their original containers
  • -Wear protective gear when you are handling chemicals
  • -Wash your hands after touching chemicals
  • -Get trained in “WHMISWorkplace Hazardous Materials Information System also known as “GHSGlobally Harmonized System of classifications and labeling of chemicals.
  • -Read the label before you use a chemical product

“Electrical Burns”

  • -Keep electrical appliances away from water
  • -If an electrical cord is frayed, fix it or get rid of it
  • -If you have young children cover electrical outlets

“Lightning Strikes”

  • -As soon as you see or hear a storm, stop swimming and boating and get away from the water because water conducts electricity.
  • -Go inside the closest building. If there is no building nearby, get inside a car and roll up the windows.
  • -Stay away from the telephone “Cell phone“, except in an emergency. If you are caught outside stay away from telephone poles and tall trees.
  • -Stay away from farm equipment and small metal vehicles such as motorcycles, bicycles and golf carts.
  • -Stay away from wire fences, clotheslines, metal pipes and rails, and other things that conduct electricity.
  • -If you are with a group of people, stay several meters apart from each other.

How to Treat a Burn: “Chemical / Electrical & Radiation”

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBERWear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 and get an AED if the burn covers more than 10% of the body, the person is in a great deal of pain, there is charring on the wound, 3rd degree or the burn was caused by a chemical, electrical, radiation source or explosive.

3) Care for the burn by:

Always follow recommendations by your Emergency Response professionals and 911 Dispatch personnel. “Never endanger yourself and maintain a safe distance from the source of the burn & review the MSDS if available”

  • -Cool the Burn and affected area with cool running water for at least “10 to 20 minutes” Minimum 15 minutes for all chemicals to dilute, remove & neutralize the chemical reaction. “This includes powdered chemicals after you have brushed away the excess before washing away. “Always remove clothing that has been exposed to chemicals to prevent them from sticking to the body” **NOTE** Never remove clothing that has “become stuck or melted” to the skin as the skin may peal off with it, consult a physician instead.
  • -For 2nd & 3rd Degree burns with charring or blistering cool only a small area at a time, too quickly may cause the person to go into shock.
  • -For 2nd & 3rd Degree burns with charring or blistering If the burned area covers less than 10% of the persons body, cool the burn with running or standing water for at 10 to 20 minutes. If this is too painful or the area cannot be put in water, cover the burn with a cool, moist, sterile dressing or clean cloth to cool it.
  • -“DO NOT” try to clean a full thickness burn “3rd degree with charring or blistering
  • -After cooling the burn, cover it loosely with a dry, sterile dressing, preferably non-stick gauze.
  • -Always Seek Medical Attention for further treatment of 2nd and 3rd degree burns with charring or blistering to avoid complications or infections.

Notes on Electrical Burns

  • -“Look for two burns” the entry and exit points. They will be open wounds that may need to be treated.”
  • -“Always” treat the person exposed to electricity as if he or she might have a head and/or spine injury.

Notes on Chemical Burns

  • Always flush the affected area with “Cool / Running / Water” to Remove the Chemical, Dilute the Chemical & slow the chemical reaction rate.
  • Always refer to your MSDS and use your WHMIS & GHS training

Notes on Radiation Burns

  • Never approach a radiation source or material that has been designated radioactive.
  • -If you suspect radiation exposure consult your emergency department immediately! Then seek Medical Attention!

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #FirePit #FireSafety #WildFire #StopDropRoll #ChemicalBurns #ElectricalBurns #RadiationBurns #WHMIS #GHS #MSDS

Wound Care – Part 12 “Penetrating or Blunt Chest Injuries”

Wound Care – Part 12 “Penetrating or Blunt Chest Injuries”

Wound Care has many parts, lets now look at Penetrating Chest Injuries and the complications they can cause. As we have learned so far chest Injuries can cause breathing emergencies. If the lungs are punctured or damaged by a penetrating object and if the object goes through the rib cage it may let “Air” or “blood” into the chest through the wound. This may force the lungs to inflate inadequately and lead a potentially life threatening emergency such as a “Hemothorax” a “Pneumothorax” or a “Flail Chest

Common Causes:

  • – Sudden Falls onto Objects blunt or sharp
  • – Industrial incidents involving sharp, blunt or rotating machinery.
  • – Any force strong enough to penetrate or create a wound great enough to damage the chests integrity.
  • – Altercations involving weapons such as knives or guns.
  • – Motor Vehicle accidents

Prevention:

  • Always follow safety guidelines, many injury preventing methods have been put together by Occupational Health and Safety for your personal protection.
  • Chest injuries can often be prevented by good safety practices in all areas of life, this may include:
  • – Driving Motor Vehicles – Working around the home
  • – Participating in aggressive sports recreational activities
  • – Performing occupational activities with heavy, rotating or industrial equipment.

What it Looks Like:

  • – Difficulty Breathing
  • – Bleeding from an open chest wound
  • – Bubbling or a sucking sound coming from the wound in the chest
  • – Severe pain on the injury site
  • – Coughing up blood
  • – Blood bubbling from the wound
  • – Gasping with tightness or shortness of breath
  • – Shock
  • – Guarded Shallow breaths
  • – Bruising on the chest or on the injury itself
  • – Crunching or grinding sounds in the chest with deformity
  • – Uneven rising of the chest during breathing “Flail Chest

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBERWear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids. **If the object is still in the wound “DO NOT REMOVE IT“, however if the object prevents the casualty from breathing “Remove it Immediately” the casualty must be able to breath**

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe, if there are airway could be blocked or there is excessive bleeding. Always call 911 for a penetrating chest wound, there could be internal injuries that may lead to the situation becoming fatal. This may also include Spinal injuries due to the force impacted against the chest.

3) Care for the Chest injury by:

***Only remove the object or the Victim from the object if their Airway could be compromised***

  1. 1) Have the person rest in a comfortable position
  2. 2) For a “Penetrating Chest Wound” cover the wound with a dressing that will stop air from getting into the chest. In many first aid kits this bandage is labeled “3 Sided Occlusive Bandage” this is specific bandage for “Penetrating Chest Wounds“. Simply tape the bandage in place with the opening in a position to allow the blood to drain away. Always consult your 911 Dispatcher for more information on current 2015 guidelines and what you may be able to do to help.
  3. 3) Perform a Secondary Survey “Second Chance to find injuries” and treat any non life threatening conditions. With a “Flail Chest” often having the casualty hold something bulky against their chest “Such as a rolled up towel” may help hold the rib cage in place.
  4. 4) Continue to provide care until further help arrives “EMS Personnel

“Pneumothorax & Hemothorax”

A Pneumothorax is a condition where “Air” enters the chest cavity from the wound site but does not enter the lung. The air in the chest cavity presses against the lung, causing it to collapse or be restricted from expansion. A Hemothorax in like condition is where “Blood” accumulates in the chest cavity from the wound site but does not enter the lung. Because blood and air take up space in the chest cavity, the lungs are unable to expand effectively, thus leading to damage or limiting respiration’s and becoming potentially fatal injury.

“Flail Chest”

A Flail Chest is a condition where 3 or more ribs are fractured in two or more places releasing the rib fragments from the chest wall, resulting in a “Flail Chest” The segment will move opposite that of the normal chest movement with visible deformity. Breathing with a Flail Chest may be extremely Painful and difficult and often does not allow for adequate oxygenation of the body, The severity of the condition and may become fatal if there are underlying conditions or internal injuries associated with the Chest Injury.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #ChestInjuries #BluntChestInjuries #FlailChest #Hemothorax #Pneumothorax

Wound Care – Part 11 “Crushing Injuries”

Wound Care – Part 11 “Crush Injuries”

To continue on with our Wound Care First Aid technique’s lets focus on Crush or Crushing Injuries. A “Crush Injury” occurs when there is a great deal of pressure on a part of the body or the body as a whole. This injury can be caused by numerous objects or even substances like “Grain in a Grain Silo, Sand, large heavy objects or even swaddling an infant to tight” . Grain Entrapment & Crush Syndrome are also something to consider as they are closely related to crush injuries and can be fatal, always take Crush Injuries seriously as there may be hidden or “Internal Injuries / Bleeding” that you may not be aware of.

Common Causes:

  • – Often caused by being squeezed between two heavy or immobile objects, or having a large amount of pressure forced against the body by an unmovable substance like grain or sand.

Prevention:

  • -Be familiar with your surroundings
  • -Be familiar with your equipment and get trained in its proper use.
  • -Make sure your equipment is in good, safe, working order.
  • -Follow safety procedures
  • STAY ALERT
  • -Never let children play around Grain Silos, Construction Sites, or Sand Pits

What it Looks Like:

  • -Person trapped or still being crushed under objects or between two objects.
  • -Possible wounds that look depressed or split at the edges.
  • -Deformity
  • -Signs of internal bleeding
  • -Shock
  • -Pain, tightness in the chest with shortness of breath.

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBERWear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids. **If the object or substance is crushing the persons head, neck, chest or abdomen or they can not breath “Remove it Immediately“, if the object is only crushing a limb “Leave the object where it is until EMS Personnel arrive.”**

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe, if there are airway could be blocked or there is excessive bleeding. Always call 911 for an crushing injury, there could be internal injuries that could lead to the situation becoming fatal.

3) Care for the Crush Injuries by:

***Only remove the object or the Victim from the object if their Airway could be compromised***

  • -Never Transport the victim on your own from a Crushing Injure, always wait for Advanced Medical Professionals to assist in removing the victim from the object or objects. The persons condition may worsen even after removing the object, this may lead to “Crushing Syndrome” and may be fatal. Always consult Medical Professionals.

“Crushing Syndrome”

Crush Syndrome is a compression of extremities or other parts of the body that causes muscle swelling and/or neurological disturbances in the affected areas of the body, this may lead to systemic manifestations or even systemic shock that can become fatal. Advanced Medical Professionals are always needed for Crushing Syndrome and should never be taken lightly. Amputation of the trapped body part may also be necessary, other injuries associated with Crushing Syndrome may include “Compartmental Syndrome

“Grain Entrapment”

Grain Entrapment is when a person is submerged under or partially submerged into a mass amount of grain “Fell in a grain Silo”. The movement of the grain can restrain the victim and make escape impossible without assistance, plus the added weight of the grain may prevent the victim from breathing and can lead to suffocation. For these reasons it is never permissible to allow children to play around grain silo’s and you should always use the buddy system to ensure there is a second way to escape.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #CrushingInjuries #CrushedLimb

Wound Care – Part 10 “Amputations”

Wound Care – Part 10 “Amputations”

An amputation is a complete or partial severing of a body part from the body as a whole, this can be and is mainly classified as a serious injury and should always require further medical attention. “Although there may be vast amounts of damage to the tissues, bleeding is usually not severe”, the body will protect itself even during times of severe emergencies. However, bleeding can increase with time and can become a life threatening event on its own and must be taken care of as well as the amputated body part. The most common question we hear from students in our First Aid Course is “Can the body part be put back?”, unfortunately there are many factors that do come into account for any body part that has been removed, age, time, athleticism, amount of damage all become factors against the body part. Medical professional’s and technology have advanced in the last few years and chances of re-attaching a body part has improved “But is never guaranteed”.

Common Causes:

  • -Any force great enough to partially or completely cut or tear away a limp, body part, or piece of the body from the body as a whole.

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -Follow safety procedures
  • -Take precautions around rotating or sharp equipment, tools or objects.

What it Looks Like:

  • -Missing body parts
  • -Shock
  • -Pain
  • -A part of the body partially or completely disconnected from the rest of the body
  • -Bleeding

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / Circulation REMEMBERWear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe, if there are airway could be blocked or there is excessive bleeding. Always call 911 for an amputation, this will let the hospital know your coming!

3) Care for the Amputation by:

***Victim Comes First***

  • -Control bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound, use pressure bandages to help slow the blood flow, use pressure points by placing a firm object in the joint above the amputation. “Never apply a tourniquet unless advised to do so by a medical professional” Tourniquet’s should be applied by professionals or under the guidance of a Trained Medical Professional like a 911 dispatcher.

***Body Part***

1)Wrap it & Strap It” Retrieve the body part and wrap it up in a clean cloth, “Never wash the body part” The body part will be cleaned by a physician and contaminants will be removed, washing the body part may render the body part unsuitable for reattachment.

2)Bag it & Tag it” Place the amputated body part in a “seal-able” plastic bag, this will prevent further contamination. If there is time write the victims name on the bag to prevent loss of the body part at the medical facility. Make sure the body part goes with the injured person to the hospital!

3) Keep it Cool BUT not Cold” Keep the amputated body part cool by placing the bag on ice, be careful not to let the body part freeze. “The body part should not freeze if wrapped & strapped”

  • If the limb or part is only “Partially” disconnected from the body, put the limb back in place and treat the injury as an “Open Wound or Fracture”

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Amputation

Wound Care – Part 9 “Infection & Disease Control”

Wound Care – Part 9 “Infection & Disease Control”

For the 9th part of Wound Care we will focus on Infections, Diseases and ways to prevent or control them once they have begun. “An infection is a condition caused by the invasion of the body by germ” these germs can be bacteria in nature or even viral. During our First Aid Course we run into many questions about infection & Disease Control, we consider disease control such a high priority that we even offer a course designed specifically to address Diseases “Blood-Born Pathogens”. During a First Aid we will advise all rescuers to “Consider ALL patients/victims as infectious” & always avoid bodily fluids during First Aid!

Common Cause’s of Infection:

  • -Foreign bodies like dirt, or other things containing germs that get into a wound

Routs of Entry for Disease:

  • -Direct Contact “When you touch the blood of someone infected
  • Indirect Contact When you touch something used by an infected individual
  • -Airborne TransmissionWhen an infected person sneezes, sending germs into the air and you breath them in
  • Vector-Borne When a mosquito bites an infected person then bites you, may even be referred to as zoonotic”

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -Always wash your hands before and after giving first aid.
  • -Whenever possible “WEAR GLOVES” avoid bodily fluids
  • -Use sterile dressings when caring for wounds
  • -“Keep your immunizations up to date” if you have a wound and have not received a “Tetanus” shot in more than “Five Years” seek medical attention. REMEMBER “Immunizations ARE beneficialIT IS A MYTH that immunizations cause birth defects.
  • -Use antibiotic ointment on a wound to help reduce risk of infection
  • -keep wounds clean

**HAND SANITIZERS** and alcohol rubs must NOT replace hand washing, if you use hand sanitizer its a good practice to wash your hands after the THIRD use!

What Infection Looks Like:

  • -Redness -Red Streaks moving away from the wound within the skin – Pus -Heat or warmth – Fever – Tenderness – Swelling – Nausea – Discolored flesh

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBERWear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 or if you suspect the infection could be severe like meningitus, whooping cough or if the victim has a fever above 102F / 39C. Or if their airway could be blocked by mucus or an infected organ such as tonsils. “In Alberta you can call “811” as well to speak to a registered nurse for a consult, they may give you options or even recommend further medical attention.”

3) Care for the infection by:

-Keep the wound clean, if the infection spreads, changes color or begins to smell seek medical attention. Change bandages frequently and let wounds dry to reduce chance of infection.

**BABY OR CHILD WITH A FEVER OVER 30C (102F)**

  • -Young children or babies with a high fever can have seizures also known as “Febrile Seizures“. In most cases these are not life-threatening and they do not last long. To prevent “febrile seizures”
  1. 1) Give the child medication recommended by the child’s doctor to reduce the fever.
  2. 2) Give the child a sponge bath with water that is room temperature “Not icy cold
  3. 3) Provide continual care “Many Children may have a Febrile Seizure while sleeping and unattended

Sense these steps only “Temporarily” lower the temperature, seek further medical attention.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Bruises #Injuries #Cuts #Scrapes #Abrasions #Infection #Disease #DiseasePrevention #InfectionControl

Wound Care – Part 8 “Ear Injuries”

Wound Care – Part 8 “Ear Injuries”

For the 8th installment of Wound Care we will focus on Ear Injuries and the potential risks that may come with them, Ear injuries may look minor, but there may be some serious complications if they go untreated. Common questions we hear within our first aid course are “What if there’s an odd colored liquid coming from the ear? Should I pull something out of the ear if its lodged in place? Can bugs crawl into my ear while I’m sleeping? Lets focus on the basics and fill in the questions as we go….

Common Causes:

  • -Impact against the ear with any force
  • -Cuts or tears
  • -Head Injury
  • -Loud Noises “Explosions / Gun Shots / Machinery / Tools
  • -Objects or substances in the ear “May be lodged

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -During Sports activities wear a helmet if ones is recommended
  • -Proper hearing protection is recommended when around loud noises or equipment “Concerts / Lawn Mowers / Chainsaws

What it Looks Like:

  • -Blood or “Other” fluid from with the ear
  • -Hearing Problems “ringing in the ear or high pitch squeal
  • -Sudden pain in the ear that may be intense
  • -Swelling or deformity

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / Circulation” REMEMBER – Wear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe like head neck or spine injuries, if their airway could be blocked or there is an impaled object in or near the ear, or if “the ear is leaking a clear fluid that dabs yellow on tissue” This may be an indicator of internal injury within the head “Seek Medical Attention Immediately” Also seek medical attention immediately if the ear injury is from an “Explosion” or “Diving” injury.

3) Care for the Ear Injury by:

**Foreign Object / Substance in the Ear with NO head and/or spine injury & the object looks like it can be easily removed**

4) if you can see the object and it looks easy to remove without causing further damage, remove it by tilting the head to the affected side, then gently tap above the ear to loosen the object.

5) Attempt to grasp the object “Tweezers may be needed” and put it out.

**If the person has a potentially serious head and or spine injury with blood or other fluid is in the ear canal or draining from the ear**

6) Led the ear drain. “DO NOT” apply direct pressure. “DO NOT” move the person if possible

7) Cover the ear “Lightlywith a sterile/clean dressing

8) Provide Continual Care until EMS personnel arrive.

“Always seek further medical attention with objects that have been Impaled into the Body.”

With any head injury it is always a good idea to seek further medical attention to avoid complications that may include the Head / Neck or Spine.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Bruises #Injuries #Cuts #Scrapes #Abrasions #PunctureWounds #ImpaledObject #NoseBleed #KnockedOutTeeth #BrokenTooth #MissingTooth #EyeInjury #EarInjuries #BleedingFromEar

Wound Care – Part 7 “Eye Injuries”

Wound Care – Part 7 “Eye Injuries”

Eye injuries will be the main focus of our 7th addition to “Wound Care” in this First Aid Blog. As we only have 2 eyes, and the fact that they operate one of our major senses, we should pay careful attention to what we can do as First Aid attendants in the presence of an Eye Injury. To make things easy, lets break it down into the basics like the other posts so that we can see what we can do, and give us some options. “Remember” eyes are a major organ and should not be treated lightly, “always seek a medical professional if your eyes have been injured, your vision changes or you have trouble focusing.” Any wound near the eye should be treated as an eye injury!

Common Causes:

  • -Objects or foreign particles lodged in the eye
  • -Impact to the eye by any force or object
  • -Radiation
  • -Burns / Flash burns
  • -Chemical Exposure

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -During Sports activities wear a face mask or eye protection
  • -Rotating tools should be inspected for wear and tear, lose objects may come lose and fly into the eye’s.
  • -Always review your MSDS and wear your PPE when working with chemicals.
  • -Get trained on all equipment at your place of employment to avoid injuries from misuse.

What it Looks Like:

  • -Pain and or irritation in the eye or eyes
  • -Redness
  • -Unable to open the eye
  • -Tears or watering of the eye
  • -Problem seeing properly
  • -Object lodged in the eye
  • -Deformities

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBER Wear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe like head neck or spine injuries, if their airway could be blocked or there is an impaled object in or near the eye, or if the eye is out of the socket..

3) Care for the Eye Injury by:

**Foreign Object / Substance floating in the eye**

  • -Try to remove the object floating in the eye by having the person blink several times. As the eye produces tears it may flush the object away.
  • -Clean away any dirt around the eye and then gently flush the eye with water, flush “AWAY” from the unaffected eye to avoid contaminating both eyes.
  • -If the object remains in the eye even after flushing the eyes seek medical attention right away to avoid further damage.

**Impaled Object in the eye**

  • -Get the person to rest as comfortably as possibly
  • -Leave the “Impaled Object” in the eyeNever remove an Impaled Object as it can cause more damage in removing it, leave removing of the object to a medical professional to avoid increasing the severity of the injury.
  • -Stabilize the object by placing bulky dressings around it being careful not to put pressure on the eye or against the object “Try not to move it as much as possible
  • -Use bandages to keep the dressing in place.
  • “Always seek further medical attention with objects that have been Impaled into the Body.”

Flash Burn:

If the eyes were damaged due to a “Flash Burn” (e.g.. From welding)

1) Cover the eyes with a cool, wet cloth

2) Seek further medical attention to avoid long term damage

With any head injury it is always a good idea to seek further medical attention to avoid complications that may include the Head / Neck or Spine.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Bruises #Injuries #Cuts #Scrapes #Abrasions #PunctureWounds #ImpaledObject #NoseBleed #KnockedOutTeeth #BrokenTooth #MissingTooth #EyeInjury

Wound Care – Part 6 “Knocked-Out Teeth”

Wound Care – Part 6 “Knocked-Out Teeth”

There are so many injuries that your body can sustain, prevent and heal, unfortunately Teeth are a unique problem as “Teeth don’t heal themselves“. During our first aid program we have had many questions regarding teeth and how we can preserve, maintain and fix them after they have been damaged. What should I do with a knocked-out tooth? Can the tooth be put back after its been broken or knocked-out? To make things simple, its not always a sure thing “putting the tooth back” sometimes depending on the injury the Dentist will know more, and have a specific plan to repair the damage and minimize risk or long term effects of the injuries. For first aid we will focus on the best way known to help preserve the tooth so that it has a better chance of being put back by a trained Dental Professional.

Common Causes:

  • -Any forceful blow or impact that involves the mouth

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -During Sports activities use a mouth guard or face mask
  • -Always wear a seat belt while in a motorized vehicle
  • -Avoid eating or drinking in a moving vehicle if possible

What it Looks Like:

  • -Missing tooth “Hole where the tooth should have been
  • -Bleeding from the gums or mouth “Often minimal bleeding

-Pain in the mouth

  • -Deformed tooth “Piece’s missing

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBERWear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe, if there are airway could be blocked or there is excessive bleeding.

3) Care for the Knocked-Out tooth by:

  • -Control bleeding by having the person bite down on a clean dressing.
  • -Carefully pick up the tooth “Or Pieces” by the crown “white part” not by the root.
  • -Rinse off the tooth or pieces “gently” with water. DO NOT scrub or remove tissue fragments that may be attached.
  • -Put the tooth in “Milk is preferred” or “Calcium Enriched Soy/Almond milk or water” If there is no milk or water wrap the tooth in a clean cloth or gauze with some of the persons own saliva. Seal the the tooth or pieces in a container and label it with date and time “keep it with the person”
  • -Seek medical attention “Dentist or Emergency Room Dentist” as soon as possible. Chances for repair of the tooth is the highest in the “First Hour after Damage

With any head injury it is always a good idea to seek further medical attention to avoid complications that may include the Head / Neck or Spine.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Bruises #Injuries #Cuts #Scrapes #Abrasions #PunctureWounds #ImpaledObject #NoseBleed #KnockedOutTeeth #BrokenTooth #MissingTooth

Wound Care – Part 5 “Nosebleeds”

Wound Care – Part 5 “Nosebleeds”

Nosebleeds have had many wives tales built into them on how to prevent and or stop them. Our First Aid Course focuses on the basics on how to help with any situation including Nosebleeds, remember that many wives tales may actually make the situation worse, so follow the approved medical technique in order to prevent further injuries from this common injury.

Common Causes:

  • -Forceful Nose Blowing -High Blood Pressure -Dry weather Conditions -Trauma to the Nose -Bleeding disorders

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -Use a humidifier if the air indoors is dry
  • -Take safety precautions when participating in sports
  • -Encourage gentle nose blowing

What it Looks Like:

  • -Blood coming from the nose either fast or a slow drip

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / Circulation” REMEMBER – Wear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe or if there are objects lodged in the nostril, the bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes or if the Nosebleed was caused by a medical condition or head injury.

3) Care for the Nosebleed by:

  • -Have the person sit and lean slightly forward while pinching the nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • -Once the bleeding is controlled, tell the person to avoid rubbing, blowing or picking the nose “This may cause the nose to bleed again”
  • -If the person loses consciousness, place them in the recovery position to allow the blood to drain.
  • -If the Nosebleed was caused by a severe head injury, do not pinch the nose.

“If the bleed was caused by an object in the nose and the object is easy to grasp, gently pull it out. If the person’s head comes forward as you gently pull then stop, the person needs further medical attention. Don’t feel around inside the nostril with your finger if you can not see the object, this may push it further in, seek medical attention.”

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Bruises #Injuries #Cuts #Scrapes #Abrasions #PunctureWounds #ImpaledObject #NoseBleed

Wound Care – Part 4 “Impaled Objects”

Wound Care – Part 4 “Impaled Objects”

With our fourth look into Wound Care will mainly focus on Impaled Objects and what we can do to help someone experiencing this type of emergency. If the “Object” that created the injury is stuck within the wound it is called an “Impaled Object“. This can be very painful, lead to blood loss, internal damage / bleeding, infection and many other complications. With an “Embedded or Impaled Object NEVER remove the object” leave the object in place for medical professionals to remove to reduce further injury. For this post lets utilize the information we have gained in previous clips to assess, evaluate and control the hazards and injuries associated with Impaled Objects.

Common Causes:

  • -Injuries from pointed objects like nails, glass, pens or needles.
  • -Unsafe play habits with long or pointed objects

Prevention:

  • -Wear PPE or Personal Protective Equipment when available
  • -Stay away from unfamiliar or wild animals
  • -Implement safe play habits with children and adults to avoid injuries such as “running with scissors”
  • -Wear Proper footwear outdoors at work or at play
  • -Nails sticking out from boards should be removed and sweep up broken glass either inside or outside “Animals and Children can easily be exposed to sharp objects hidden in grass”

What it Looks Like:

  • -An object sticking out of the body.
  • -Bleeding, depending on the size of the object and depth of penetration.
  • -Pain
  • -Shock

How to Help:

1) Check the area, once the area is safe, Check the person and ensure the persons ABC’s are present “Airway / Breathing / CirculationREMEMBER – Wear gloves if available to avoid bodily fluids.

2) Call 911 if you suspect the injuries could be severe or if there object is large, the person is impaled “Onto” the object, is in the chest, head or neck.

3) Care for the Impaled Object by:

  • **LEAVE THE OBJECT IN** it may be acting like a plug and preventing the victim from severe blood loss.
  • -Stabilize the object by putting bulky dressings around the object to prop it in its original position “Try not to move the object as much as possible” IF THERE IS AN ENTRANCE THERE MAY BE AN EXIT, check for an exit wound and stabilize like the first.
  • -Use long bandages or tape to keep the dressings in place securing the Object & dressings.
  • -With an Impaled Object it is important that the person “ALWAYS” seeks further medical attention and avoids removing the object themselves. The object should be removed by properly trained medical personnel.

As you can see the treatments for an Impaled object and a Puncture Wound are very similar.

We never know what can happen, its always good to be prepared and have the knowledge we need to help those who need it.

“This material is for information purposes only and is taken from The Canadian Red Cross / Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation & Alberta Health Services. This information should not be used in place of medical, Technical advice, instructor, and/or treatment. If you have questions, speak to your local Physician or Safety Training Facility.”

Just Remember:

Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don’t Waste Time!!!

Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.

#FirstAidCourseEdmonton #FirstAidAndBasicLifeSupport #BasicLifeSupport #BLS #BLSforHCP #BCLS #BCLSCourseEdmonton #ACLS #AdvancedCardiovascularLifeSupport #MFR #EmergencyMedicalResponder #ITLS #WoundCare #Bruises #Injuries #Cuts #Scrapes #Abrasions #PunctureWounds #ImpaledObject