First Aid and Emergency Response
This domain tests what you do in the first minutes after a crash, when bystander action can prevent death. Questions cover scene safety, the emergency call, primary assessment, CPR, bleeding, recovery position, shock and burns.
Scene and primary assessment
Protect the scene with hazard lights and a warning triangle, then call emergency services. Do not move a casualty unless there is immediate danger. Use DRABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation. If the casualty is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR.
CPR and bleeding
Compress the chest 30 times, give 2 rescue breaths if trained, at 100–120 compressions per minute and 5–6 cm deep. For severe bleeding, apply direct pressure and elevate the limb; do not remove an embedded object.
Recovery position and burns
If the casualty is breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position and monitor breathing. Cool burns with running water for about 20 minutes; do not use ice, butter or ointments.
Worked example
A motorcyclist is unconscious but breathing and still wearing a helmet. Do not remove the helmet unless the airway is blocked or vomiting occurs. Open the visor, support the head, check breathing and use the recovery position only if needed and safe. Reasoning: helmet removal can worsen a spinal injury; airway takes priority if breathing is threatened.
Traps that cost marks
Giving food or drink; moving a casualty unnecessarily; starting CPR on a breathing casualty; using a tourniquet without training.
Key points
- Protect the scene and call emergency services before assessment.
- Use DRABC: Danger, Response, Airway, Breathing, Circulation.
- CPR rate is 100–120 per minute at 5–6 cm depth with 30:2 compressions to breaths.
- Apply direct pressure to severe bleeding and leave embedded objects in place.
- Cool burns with running water for about 20 minutes; never use ice or butter.