NIMASA STCW EFA cheat sheet

Primary survey order: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation (DRABC); correct any immediately life-threatening problem before moving to the next step.

Adult rescue breathing rate is about 10-12 breaths per minute (one breath every 5-6 seconds); each insufflation lasts about 1 second and should just make the chest rise.

Adult CPR: compressions at 100-120 per minute, depth 5-6 cm, ratio 30 compressions to 2 ventilations; switch rescuer about every 2 minutes to limit fatigue.

Recovery position is indicated for an unresponsive casualty who is breathing normally and has no suspected spinal injury; it keeps the airway clear and allows vomit to drain.

Severe external bleeding: apply firm direct pressure with a dressing, add layers without removing soaked dressings, and elevate the limb if no fracture is suspected.

Burns: cool with clean running water for at least 10-20 minutes, remove rings and tight items before swelling, and never burst blisters or apply oils, butter or ice.

Suspected spinal injury after a fall or collision: keep the head aligned with the spine, do not move the casualty unless there is immediate danger, and immobilise before transport.

Shock signs include pale clammy skin, rapid weak pulse, rapid shallow breathing, thirst and restlessness; keep the casualty lying down, warm and reassured, and give nothing by mouth.

Unconsciousness check: if no normal breathing within 10 seconds, treat as cardiac arrest and start CPR; occasional gasps are not normal breathing.

Adult choking (conscious): give up to 5 back blows between the shoulder blades; if ineffective, give up to 5 abdominal thrusts, alternating until the obstruction clears.

Drowning casualty: prioritise ventilation - give 2 initial rescue breaths before compressions, since the cause is usually hypoxia; remove from water only if safe to do so.

Recovery position is not used for a casualty who is not breathing, has a suspected spinal injury, or is a pregnant woman (place her on her left side instead).

Heat exhaustion signs are heavy sweating, cool pale skin, cramps and dizziness; move to shade, loosen clothing and give oral fluids if fully conscious.

Fracture immobilisation: support the limb in the position found, check circulation beyond the injury, and immobilise the joints above and below the break.

Handover to medical help uses SAMPLE history: Signs and symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last meal, Events leading to the incident.

Infection control: wear disposable gloves, avoid contact with blood and body fluids, and wash hands or use alcohol gel after any first aid contact.

First aider's role is to preserve life, prevent the condition worsening, and promote recovery - not to diagnose or prescribe medication.

Use the vessel's medical guide and radio medical advice (TMAS) for drug administration; the master or designated officer authorises treatment beyond basic first aid.

Record findings in the medical log: time of incident, casualty details, observations, treatment given and response, to support later medical advice.

Casualty with chest pain: sit them up, keep them calm and still, loosen tight clothing, and seek urgent medical advice; do not give food or drink.

Diabetic emergency: if conscious and able to swallow, give sugar (glucose gel, sweet drink); if unconscious, place in recovery position and never give anything by mouth.

Seizure care: protect the head, clear nearby hazards, do not restrain or put anything in the mouth, and place in the recovery position once the seizure ends.

Hypothermia: move to a warm dry place, remove wet clothing, wrap in blankets, and give warm sweet drinks only if fully conscious; rewarm gradually.

Eye injury from chemicals: irrigate with clean water or saline for at least 15 minutes, keeping the eyelid open, and arrange medical assessment as soon as possible.