While the specific steps can vary slightly depending on the organization providing the training and the situation at hand, here's a generally accepted breakdown of 10 key steps in providing first aid:
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Assess the Scene and Ensure Safety: Before approaching the victim, make sure the area is safe for both you and the injured person. Look for hazards like traffic, fire, or unstable structures. Don't become a victim yourself.
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Check for Responsiveness: Gently tap or shake the person and shout, "Are you OK?" This determines if they are conscious.
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Call for Help (Activate Emergency Medical Services - EMS): If the person is unresponsive or has a life-threatening condition, immediately call your local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the US). If possible, have someone else make the call while you provide care. Provide the dispatcher with your location, the nature of the emergency, and the number of victims.
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Open the Airway: If the person is unresponsive, ensure their airway is open. Use the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver (unless a spinal injury is suspected). Place one hand on the forehead and gently tilt the head back. Place the fingers of your other hand under the chin and lift to open the airway. If a spinal injury is suspected, use the jaw-thrust maneuver.
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Check for Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Look for chest rise and fall, listen for breath sounds, and feel for air on your cheek.
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Provide Rescue Breathing (if necessary): If the person isn't breathing or is only gasping, begin rescue breathing. Give two breaths, each lasting about one second, ensuring the chest rises.
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Check for Circulation (Signs of Life): Look for signs of circulation, such as breathing, coughing, or movement.
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Perform Chest Compressions (if necessary): If there are no signs of circulation, begin chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, between the nipples. Place your other hand on top of the first hand and interlock your fingers. Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches (5 cm) at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Continue compressions until help arrives or the person shows signs of life. Alternate 30 compressions with 2 rescue breaths.
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Control Bleeding: If the person is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth. If bleeding is severe, use a tourniquet as a last resort.
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Treat Other Injuries and Keep the Victim Comfortable: Once the immediate life threats are addressed, assess and treat other injuries, such as burns, fractures, or sprains. Keep the person warm, comfortable, and reassure them until help arrives. Monitor their condition closely.
