The three core principles of first aid are designed to ensure the best possible outcome for someone who is injured or ill. These principles guide first aiders in their actions and priorities.
Core Principles of First Aid
These principles are often presented as the "3 P's" to make them easier to remember:
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Preserve Life: This is the highest priority in any first aid situation. It means taking immediate action to keep the person alive.
- Example: If someone is unconscious and not breathing, you would start CPR. Other actions include stopping severe bleeding, clearing the airway, and addressing any immediate threats to the casualty's life.
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Prevent Deterioration: Once life-threatening conditions are addressed, the next step is to prevent the person's condition from getting worse.
- Example: If a person has a broken leg, you would stabilize the limb to prevent further damage during transport to medical help. This could involve using a splint. Other actions include keeping the casualty warm, and managing any secondary issues.
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Promote Recovery: This involves taking steps to help the injured person heal and regain their health.
- Example: Providing emotional support, keeping the injured person calm, and ensuring that any injuries are properly bandaged, to reduce risk of infection, aid in the recovery process. The goal here is to make sure the person is able to recover fully and as quickly as possible.
Summary Table
| Principle | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Preserve Life | Actions to keep the person alive. | CPR, stopping severe bleeding, clearing airway. |
| Prevent Deterioration | Steps to stop their condition from worsening. | Stabilizing injuries, keeping warm, preventing shock. |
| Promote Recovery | Actions to help them heal and return to health. | Providing emotional support, proper bandaging, monitoring their condition. |
These three principles are the cornerstone of effective first aid and guide all actions taken in a medical emergency. It is crucial to prioritize them when responding to any accident or illness.
