First Aid
First aid questions at heavy-vehicle level assume a large scene with serious injuries, one driver and no help for several minutes. Answers are judged on sequence and on not making things worse.
The sequence: DRABC
- Danger: protect the scene, switch off engines, set the triangle, watch for traffic, spilled fuel and unstable loads.
- Response: talk and squeeze shoulders. Airway: open and check. Breathing: look, listen, feel. Circulation: check for major bleeding.
- Call 911 early and give an exact location - highway number, direction, nearest kilometre marker or exit.
Core actions
- Not breathing: start CPR, 30 compressions to 2 breaths, 100–120 compressions per minute, about 5–6 cm deep.
- Breathing but unconscious: recovery position, monitor continuously.
- Severe bleeding: firm direct pressure with a pad, elevate if possible, tourniquet only as a last resort and note the time.
- Suspected spinal injury: do not move the casualty unless there is fire or traffic danger.
- Burns: cool with clean running water for about 20 minutes; no ice, no butter, do not pull stuck clothing.
- Chemical splash in the eyes: flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes and keep the eyelids open.
Worked example
A car has hit your trailer. The driver is unconscious, slumped over the wheel, and you can hear gurgling breathing. Reasoning: danger first - hazard lights and triangle. Open the airway by supporting the head and tilting carefully; if breathing returns and is adequate, keep the airway open and monitor until the ambulance arrives. Do not drag the casualty out unless the car catches fire.
Traps that cost marks
Moving a casualty out of habit; giving food or drink to an injured person; removing a helmet without needing to.