There are certain skills which can be regarded as core, regardless of where or how first aid is taught. These should always be treated in the order of priority, usually given by the “3 Bs”:
>Breathing
>Bleeding
>Bones
This means that any first aider should first seek to treat any problems with Breathing, before attempting to deal with a bleed or broken bone
> If the casualty appears unconscious check this by shouting
‘Can you hear me?’, ‘Open your eyes’
and gently shaking their shoulders.
If there is a response:
If there is no further danger, leave the casualty in the position found and summon help if needed.
Treat any condition found and monitor vital signs - level of response, pulse and breathing.
Continue monitoring the casualty either until help arrives or he recovers.
If there is no response:
Shout for help.
If possible, leave the casualty in the position found and open the airway.
If this is not possible, turn the casualty onto their back and open the airway.
Airway
Open the airway by placing one hand on the casualty’s forehead and gently tilting the head back, then lift the chin using 2 fingers only.
This will move the casualty's tongue away from the back of the mouth.
Breathing
Look, listen and feel for no more than 10 seconds to see if the casualty is breathing normally.
Look to see if the chest is rising and falling. Listen for breathing.
Feel for breath against your cheek.
If the casualty is breathing normally , place them in the recovery position.
Check for other life-threatening conditions such as severe bleeding and treat as necessary.
If the casualty is not breathing normally or if you have any doubt whether breathing is normal begin CPR
First Aid
1st Kilkenny Scout Group
Key First Aid Skills
