The medical first response is a critical skill for anyone. In an emergency, it is important to know how to provide medical assistance until professional help arrives. By learning these skills, you can help save lives!
What should I know about this?
There are four basic steps to the first response:
- Check the scene for safety: Before you do anything, it is important to make sure that the area is safe. If there is an active shooter or other threat, do not enter the area. Call 911 and wait for the police to arrive.
- Check the person: Once you have determined it is safe to approach, check the person for signs of life. If they are unresponsive, tap their shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, check for pulse and breathing. If there is no pulse or breathing, begin CPR immediately.
- Call 911: Even if the person appears to be okay, it is important to call 911. The dispatcher will be able to give you instructions on how to best help the person. They will also dispatch medical professionals to the scene.
- Wait for medical help: Once you have called 911, it is important to wait for medical help to arrive. Do not try to move the person unless they are in danger. If possible, comfort the person and help them stay calm until medical help arrives.
We hope this information has been useful to you.