First Aid and Emergency Response: The First Minutes Matter
Scene safety and the emergency call
Before helping, secure the scene. Switch off the ignition, apply the handbrake, place a warning triangle, and put on a high-visibility vest. Then call the emergency number and state the location, the number of injured, and the type of injuries. A candidate must know that the emergency call comes before detailed first aid when there are multiple casualties, because professional help must start moving.
The ABC priority
Airway, breathing, and circulation set the order of action. If a casualty is not breathing normally, start chest compressions: push hard and fast in the centre of the chest at roughly 100 to 120 compressions per minute, about 5 to 6 centimetres deep in an adult. The trap is a question where a casualty is breathing but unconscious: place them in the recovery position, do not start compressions.
Bleeding, shock and helmets
Control severe bleeding with direct pressure. Treat for shock by keeping the casualty warm and still. Do not remove a motorcycle helmet unless the airway is blocked, because neck injury may be present.
Worked example
You arrive at a crash and find one casualty unconscious but breathing. You check the airway, find it clear, and place the casualty in the recovery position on their side, then monitor breathing until help arrives. No compressions are given because breathing is present.