A pocket mask can be used when performing CPR. Pocket masks are widely used and commonly available. They have a unidirectional valve, directing patient’s expired air away from rescuee. Most masks are transparent, allowing...

Medical gases include Oxygen and Entonox (a mix of Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen). In this post, we’ll take a look at the use of Oxygen by first aiders and first responders. Indications for Oxygen...

Your personal safety is the priority in any emergency first aid situation. Bodily fluids such as blood and saliva may contain pathogens that may cause disease or illness. You should attempt to isolate direct...

Choking is a common cause of accidental death and first aiders should be aware of the basic management of choking. First aiders should initiate care in cases of severe choking when a person is unable...

Heat Emergencies Victims exposed to heat may experience symptoms that may be minor to life-threatening. To avoid heat-related emergencies you should remember to drink plenty of fluids and dress appropriately for the conditions. Upon...

A seizure is a medical condition in which occurs due to disorganised electrical activity in the brain. Seizures may be related to a chronic disorder called epilepsy or acutely due to head injury, low...

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure for a victim of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Cardiac arrest occurs when a victim’s heart stops beating properly. There are many causes of sudden cardiac arrest including problems...

Automated External Defibrillator’s (or AED’s) are devices that treat the most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest by delivering an electrical shock to the heart. AEDs treat an abnormal heart rhythm called Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) that...

What are the signs and symptoms of a seizure? Seizures can present in many different ways: Involuntary twitching Sudden change in consciousness Unusual eye movements A vacant stare Numbness or inability to use a...

What are the symptoms and signs of a headache? Babies and toddlers may not be able to tell you that they have a headache. Some other symptoms and signs that may accompany a headache...

Splints are common injuries, especially in those undertaking outdoor activities or DIY. If a splinter is embedded deeply, difficult to remove or on a joint then leave it in place and seek medical attention. ...

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin. Insulin is a hormone that breaks down the sugar that we digest, so that it can be used by the cells of the body or...

Anaphylaxis is an extremely dangerous life-threatening allergic reaction. The name ‘anaphylaxis’ means ‘without protection’ and indeed, the condition is caused by a massive over-reaction of the body’s protection (immune) system. Luckily, severe anaphylactic reactions are...

Choking is a common cause of accidental death and often preventable. Objects such as food, sweets or small objects can easily become lodged in the airway if they are accidentally ‘breathed in’ rather than...