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Mangaluru: September 12th is observed as World First Aid Day, a day that reminds us of the importance of knowing what to do during a medical emergency.

So, what exactly is first aid?

First aid is the immediate and temporary care given to a sick or injured person before professional medical help arrives or before the person reaches a medical facility. In simple words, whatever you do—or avoid doing—during the initial minutes of a medical emergency is part of first aid.

First aid has three important goals: preserve life, prevent deterioration, and promote recovery.

The first goal, preserving life, means keeping the person alive until medical help arrives. For example, in a person who has suffered cardiac arrest, performing CPR can help maintain blood circulation and keep the person alive until professional medical assistance reaches them. While providing first aid, it is equally important to protect yourself and ensure that you do not put your own life at risk.

The second goal is preventing deterioration. For example, if someone has severe bleeding from the hand, applying direct pressure can help control the bleeding until the person reaches the hospital. This prevents further blood loss and makes it easier for doctors to treat the patient.

The third goal is promoting recovery. Suppose someone has a fracture. Immobilizing the injured limb with a splint can prevent further damage during transportation. Similarly, if someone develops symptoms of a stroke, recognizing those symptoms early and getting the person to a hospital quickly can significantly improve the chances of recovery.

Now, let us discuss some common emergencies and myths that we frequently encounter.

Snake Bites

Snake bites are common emergencies, particularly in rural areas. When someone is bitten by a snake, the first thing to do is keep the person calm and take them to a hospital as quickly as possible.

One common mistake is trying to chase, catch, or kill the snake and bring it to the hospital. Please do not do this. You could get bitten yourself.

Another dangerous practice is making a cut at the bite site and trying to suck out the venom. This does not remove the venom and can cause additional injury or infection.

Similarly, practices such as using a so-called “magic stone” or other unproven remedies have no scientific basis. If you have safely seen the snake, you can tell the doctor its colour or general appearance. But do not put yourself at risk trying to identify or capture it. Doctors can assess the patient clinically and through appropriate investigations and provide the necessary treatment.

Chest Pain and Heart Attack

Another common emergency is chest pain. Unfortunately, many people assume that chest discomfort is simply gas or gastritis. They may drink hot water, cumin water, or take an antacid and wait for the symptoms to disappear.

This can be dangerous.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is reduced or blocked. Typical symptoms include central chest pain or pressure, sweating, and pain that may radiate to the neck, arm, shoulder, back, or jaw. However, heart attacks do not always present in this textbook manner. Some people, especially older adults and people with diabetes, may have vague symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, mild sweating, unusual tiredness, or unexplained discomfort.

If you experience symptoms that could represent a heart attack, stay calm and seek emergency medical help immediately. Ask family members or neighbors for assistance, call an ambulance, and reach a hospital with appropriate facilities without delay. Every second matters.

If you have been previously prescribed emergency medication for heart disease, use it only as advised by your doctor.

Stroke

Stroke is another extremely time-sensitive emergency. It is often described as a “brain attack.”

Warning signs include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, confusion, or inability to lift one arm properly.

Do not wait to see whether the symptoms improve. Do not delay treatment by trying massages or unproven alternative remedies.

Certain types of stroke can be treated effectively when the patient reaches the hospital within the appropriate treatment window. The earlier the person is assessed, the better the chances of receiving time-sensitive treatment and reducing long-term disability.

Remember: recognise the symptoms, act quickly, and reach the hospital.

Burns

For a small burn, immediately cool the affected area under clean, cool running tap water. Do not apply toothpaste, turmeric, or other household substances.

If the burn is extensive, involves a large area, or affects the face, neck, hands, feet, or private areas, seek medical attention promptly.

Remove jewellery such as rings, watches, and bangles from the affected area because swelling can develop. If clothing is involved and can be safely removed, do so, and cover the area with a clean cotton cloth. Avoid materials such as nylon that may stick to the wound.

Sprains

For a simple sprain of the ankle or knee, remember RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

Stop the activity, rest the injured limb, apply ice appropriately, use a supportive bandage, and elevate the limb.

However, if there is severe or increasing pain, significant swelling, or inability to bear weight, medical evaluation is necessary to rule out a fracture or significant ligament injury.

Nosebleeds and Cuts

For a nosebleed, sit upright and lean slightly forward. Pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for several minutes. Do not tilt the head backwards.

If the bleeding continues or occurs without an obvious cause—particularly in an older person—medical assessment is advisable.

For a small cut, wash the wound with clean running water and apply direct pressure to control bleeding. A simple bandage may be sufficient for a minor wound.

Do not apply turmeric or coffee powder, as these can contaminate the wound. If the wound is deep, gaping, involves a joint, or does not stop bleeding, seek medical attention because stitches or other treatment may be required.

Head Injuries

Children frequently fall and hit their heads, and parents often wonder whether they need to go to the hospital.

The decision depends on the circumstances and symptoms. A significant fall or high-impact injury should be medically assessed.

After a minor injury, closely observe the child. Warning signs such as repeated vomiting, severe or worsening headache, seizures, unusual drowsiness, loss of consciousness, confusion, abnormal behaviour, or rapidly increasing swelling require urgent medical attention.

If the injury occurred from a significant height or involved a high-speed impact, seek medical evaluation even if the child initially appears well.

Preventing Accidents

Finally, prevention is one of the most important forms of first aid.

Always wear a seatbelt and helmet, follow traffic rules, avoid speeding, and leave home on time rather than rushing because you are late.

Another growing problem is taking selfies in dangerous places—on buildings, near cliffs or beaches, or while riding a bicycle, scooter, or motorcycle. These risky behaviours can result in serious injuries, permanent disability, or loss of life.

Many emergencies can be prevented simply by making safer choices.

First aid is not about doing complicated medical procedures. It is about staying calm, knowing the basics, avoiding harmful myths, and getting professional help as quickly as possible.

Learn first aid. Share this knowledge with your family, friends, schools, and communities. A few correct actions in the first few minutes can make an enormous difference—and sometimes, they can save a life.

Dr Jeedhu Radhakrishnan,
Cluster Head Emergency Medicine, KMC Hospital Mangalore