First Aid
This domain tests the priorities and safe actions of first aid for common emergencies: unconsciousness, bleeding, burns, fractures, sprains, choking and snake bite.
Core sequence
- DRABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation. Check danger to yourself and the casualty first.
- Unresponsive and not breathing normally: call emergency services, start chest compressions at 100–120 per minute, depth 5–6 cm for an adult, with 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths if trained. Use an AED as soon as available.
- Severe bleeding: apply direct pressure with a clean pad; do not remove a soaked pad, add another on top.
- Burns: cool with clean running water for about 20 minutes; do not apply ice, butter or toothpaste.
- Sprains: rest, ice wrapped in cloth, compression and elevation.
- Snake bite: keep the person calm and still, immobilise the limb, remove tight items, and get urgent medical help. Do not cut or suck the wound.
Worked example
An adult collapses in the school grounds and does not respond. Reasoning: check danger, shout for help, open the airway and check breathing. If not breathing normally, call emergency services, send for an AED, and begin CPR at 30:2. Do not spend time giving water or searching for a pulse if you are not trained; compressions and early defibrillation matter most.
Traps that cost marks
- Do not move a suspected spinal injury casualty unless there is immediate danger.
- Do not put ice directly on skin or burst burn blisters.
- Do not give food or drink to an unconscious or semi-conscious person.
- A tourniquet is not the first response for ordinary bleeding; direct pressure is.