First Aid
First Aid tests the correct immediate actions for common injuries and emergencies, and the order in which to act. The exam rewards sequence, safety and restraint: do the safe thing first, then call for help.
Core rules and concepts
- Aims: preserve life, prevent worsening, promote recovery.
- First steps: check scene safety, check response, call emergency services (108 or 112 in India), then open airway, check breathing and circulation; start CPR if trained and the person is not breathing normally.
- Wounds: clean with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding, cover with a sterile dressing.
- Burns: cool with running water for about 20 minutes, remove tight items, cover with a clean non-stick cloth.
- Fracture: immobilise in the found position with a splint; do not try to straighten the limb.
- Snake bite: keep the person calm and still, immobilise the limb, remove rings, get antivenom urgently; do not cut, suck or apply a tight tourniquet.
- Dog bite: wash with soap and running water for about 15 minutes, apply antiseptic, cover, and seek anti-rabies vaccination.
Worked example
A child spills hot water on the forearm. Reasoning: first remove the child from the source and remove wet clothing or jewellery, then hold the area under cool running water for about 20 minutes; cover loosely with a clean non-stick cloth and seek care. Ice, butter, toothpaste or oil should not be applied because they can deepen tissue damage or cause infection.
Traps that cost marks
- Putting ice or toothpaste on a burn.
- Cutting or sucking a snake bite, or tying a tight tourniquet.
- Straightening a suspected fracture.
- Giving food or drink to an unconscious person.