Why First Aid Training Is Good To Know
Mastering the basics of first aid can literally be a “lifesaver.” Sometimes accidents, injuries, or threats to health are the natural result of life. We want to protect ourselves from dangerous situations and stay fit and healthy, but it’s also good to “be prepared” just in case. Learning the basics of first aid is one of the most important ways to do it.
The image of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or splinting a leg is often the first thing people think of when they hear the word “first aid.” Although this may be a common situation, there is much more involved. The term technically refers to a form of medical assistance and care provided to someone who needs immediate help after a sudden injury or illness. This care is provided before any professionally trained medical help arrives to further assist the situation. This could be anything necessary for a life-threatening event or a basic remedy for an external injury. For any circumstance, knowledge of skills to help victims, from family members to complete strangers, is helpful for life-threatening conditions or helpful in providing the immediate care needed to prevent further injury and speed healing.
Techniques taught in PA training can be as simple as calming people down in the event of a natural disaster or organizing a rescue attempt. However, the trained person is also prepared to deal with more specific incidents, such as helping victims of a car accident. The person trained and medically prepared in the basic skills has more confidence in himself when in the world and has the peace of mind that he is prepared for any unexpected emergency situation. This trust reaches out and is translated to its victims and bystanders, offering reassurance and comfort. There is no greater reward than helping those in need or even saving a life.
For people employed in certain positions such as teachers, instructors, lifeguards, caregivers, or trainers, first aid training may be a mandatory part of their occupation. This is for good reason. These jobs have higher incidents of injuries or spontaneous attacks, such as strokes or heart attacks that can threaten a life or cause serious harm to a person. Being able to offer immediate assistance and comfort is critical when working in such a position. For the common individual, it is a common belief that if you try to help a victim with the use of a first aid technique, you may be sued by family members later if you do not help the person. Fortunately, there is a law that protects the innocent and knowledgeable bystander in the case of such legal matters. The Good Samaritan Law is designed to protect those who offer assistance by applying practiced methods of assistance, eliminating any risk of lawsuits that may result.
First aid courses are offered in many community centers, hospitals, churches, and gyms. Some organizations offer first aid training to their employees. The American Red Cross is another place that offers this training that can benefit both parents and public service professionals. Courses vary in the levels of instruction taught, so you’ll need to do a little research to find out what techniques are offered and what you want to learn. But, there is no question, it can be a valuable skill in emergency situations, even for you and those around you.