First Aid and CPR Flashcards

Question

Secondary assessment: focused examination

Answer 1

1. Explain that the purpose is to identify injuries 2. Ask if anything hurts or feels uncomfortable 3. If they indicate an area of pain/discomfort or concern look for signs of injury 4. Ask focused questions about how the person feels

Answer 2

If they are unresponsive but breathing or unable to communicate Begin by checking the head for injuries, then work downward, focusing on the chest, abdomen and legs before checking the arms

Answer 3

Be on the lookout for shock. It is life threatening What to do? Call EMS and when waiting Care for the suspected cause of the shock Provide continual care

Answer 4

Anxiety or confusion Cool, clammy skin that may appear paler than normal Weakness Excessive thirst Rapid breathing Drowsiness or loss of responsiveness Nausea or vomiting

Answer 5

Airway becomes partially or completely blocked by a mechanical obstruction (outside body), anatomical obstruction (part of body like a tongue or swelling) or by fluids Children younger than 5 are at a high risk because their airways are small

Answer 6

Partially blocked, still able to breathe meaning they can cough or speak. It can get worse and completely block the airway, changing it to complete choking

Answer 7

Airway is completely blocked Can’t cough or speak but maybe high pitched squawking noises Not able to breathe and immediate care is needed to remove whatever is blocking the airway

Answer 8

Trying to swallow a large piece of food Eating too quickly Eating while talking, laughing, walking or running

Answer 9

Chew well before swallow Eat slowly and calmly Avoid talking, laughing and physical activity while food in mouth

Answer 10

When babies eat solid food, begin with purees instead of solid pieces Supervise babies and children when eating/playing Make sure they can’t reach objects small enough to swallow

Answer 11

Inability to speak, cough or breathe High-pitched squeaking noises Look of panic with wide eyes Flushed (red) skin that becomes bluish or paler than normal One or both hands clutching the throat What to do Call EMS and get an AED Try to dislodge the object by alternating between 2/3 Back blows, abdominal thrusts and chest thrusts

Answer 12

A look of panic with wide eyes Forceful or weak coughing One or both hands clutching throat Encourage them to cough forcefully. Encourage or assist to sit upright

Answer 13

Many people find a combination between abdominal thrusts and back blows to be simple and effective but any combo is fine You need to adapt If person is pregnant or wheelchair you may not be able to give abdominal thrusts

Answer 14

Stand or kneel beside or behind the person and place your arm across the person’s chest Bend the person forward and use the heel of your hand to deliver up to 5 firm back blows between the person’s shoulder bladers

Answer 15

Stand or kneel behind the person Wrap your arms around the person’s waist and place your fist just above the belly button Cover your first with your other hand and give up to 5 quick, inward and upward thrusts

Answer 16

Stand or kneel behind the person and wrap both of your arms around the person’s chest Place your first in the middle of their chest with your thumb facing inward, and place your other hand over your first Give up to 5 chest thrusts by pulling straight back toward you

Answer 17

Sit or kneel with the baby face down along your forearm, holding the jaw in your hand Deliver 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blade If the object does not come out flip the baby face up and support the head Place 2 fingers in the middle of the chest and deliver 5 firm chest compressions Repeat the 5 firm back blows and 5 chest compressions until the object comes out

Answer 18

Call EMS If there are people nearby, move to a place where you can be noticed Attempt to dislodge the object by performing abdominal thrusts against a safe object with no sharp edges or corners, such as back of chair or edge of a table

Answer 19

Can cause damage to sensitive tissues in the trachea and back of throat which can cause bleeding and swelling After you help someone who is choking and it comes out, they might need more care If you gave back blows, chest thrusts or abdominal thrusts (complete choking). the person should seek medical attention If the obstruction was cleared by coughing (partial choking), the person should be monitored for several hours afterward

Answer 20

Moves blood throughout the body, providing cells with oxygen and nourishment while carrying away waste products Made up of heart and various blood vessels The heart’s electrical system controls contractions and makes the heart beat The heart muscle gets oxygen and nourishment from coronary arteries

Answer 21

Arteries: large, high pressure vessels, that carry blood from the heart Capillaries: small vessels that pass oxygen, nutrients and waste to and from cells Veins: larger, lower-pressure vessels that carry blood to the heart

Answer 22

Sudden injury or illness that involves circulatory system Body’s cells need oxygen to survive and the emergency can be life-threatening Survival often depends on first aid people acting quickly and giving appropriate care until EMS personnel arrive

Answer 23

Develops slowly over long period of time Causes arteries to narrow and harden, increasing risk of artery becoming blocked, causing heart attack or stroke Reducing risk of cardiovascular disease is the simplest/effective ways of preventing circulation emergencies

Answer 24

Uncontrollable factors include age, sex, family history, ethnicity Controllable factors Smoking: makes sudden death 2-4x greater Cholesterol: lipoproteins can build up and narrow blood vessels Blood Pressure: narrow blood vessels Weight: obesity increases cholesterol and high bp Stress

Answer 25

Heart muscle can’t get enough oxygen because of a blockage in one of the coronary arteries that feed it Can occur at any time

Answer 26

Pain, pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest Pain radiating from chest to the arms, shoulder, jaw and neck Dizziness Unresponsiveness Sweating, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea Shortness of breath Back or jaw pain

Answer 27

Call EMS Care: Have the person rest quietly Have the person chew either 1 adult-dose or 2 low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) tablets (aspirin). Don’t repeat the dose

Answer 28

Occurs when two things are combined: Arteries are narrowed by cardiovascular disease, reducing blood flow The heart’s oxygen needs are elevated (e.g. during times of physical activity or emotional stress) Causes a painful squeezing, suffocating, or burning feeling Similar to heart attack signs but pain is triggered by physical activity or stress Goes away if the person rests, and is relived by medication (nitroglycerin) Treat as if it was a heart attack

Answer 29

Helps stop clotting in arteries which can reduce damage If chest pain is suspected to be cardiac they should chew ASA tablets Commonly seen under name Aspirin Some people have a contraindication to ASA, making it unsafe so always ask

Answer 30

Helps relieve chest pain that is associated with heart attacks and angina Starts working in 1-3 minutes and lasts 5 min Should follow DR’s recommendation Spray is most common in emergency citations Dermal paste or past is not emergency and can’t be substituted

Answer 31

Happens when blood flow to person’s brain is interrupted, resulting in death of brain cells Can cause permanent brain damage, but with quick action, it can be stopped or reverse Most common in older adults, but a person of any age can have it Reduce risk of stroke by same lifestyle changes that help prevent cardiovascular disease

Answer 32

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a brain aneurysm ruptures A brain aneurysm is a swollen, fragile section in the wall of an artery that carries blood to the brain If ruptured, it causes bleeding in the surrounding brain tissues, damaging the nearby brain cells

Answer 33

An ischemic stroke occurs when a clot becomes lodged in an artery of the brain, usually because the artery has been narrowed by cardiovascular disease The blockage prevents blood from reaching the brain cells it usually supplies Brain cells no longer receiving oxygen will shut down and eventually die

Answer 34

Can occur when a tumor in the brain presses on an artery Similar effects to a blood clot, decreasing blood flow to part of the brain or blocking it completely

Answer 35

Can vary and may suddenly develop one or more of signs and symptoms Severe headache Dizziness or confusion Unresponsiveness or temporary loss of responsiveness Loss of bladder or bowel control

Answer 36

Face: facial numbness/weakness, especially on one side Arm: arm numbness or weakness, especially on one side Speech: abnormal speech, difficulty speaking or understanding others, or a loss of speech Time: Call EMS immediately

Answer 37

Call EMS Care: Have the person rest in a comfortable position Note when the signs and symptoms first started (or the last time the person was known to be well) When using the recovery position for a person who is having a stroke, place them on the side that is less affected by the stoke Helps the person get into a comfortable position and can lessen anxiety

Answer 38

Caused by a temporary drop in blood flow to a part of the brain May be caused by a tumor or clot in an artery in the brain Same signs and symptoms of the stroke but disappear in few minutes or hours A person who has had a TIA is at a very high risk of having stroke in the near future More than 10% of people who have had a TIA will have a stroke within 3 months, with half happening within 48 hours of the TIA

Answer 39

Large amounts of blood loss occur either externally (outside body) or internally (within body Can occur when one or more blood vessels are broke and must be contained immediately Bleeding from arteries (also known as arterial bleeding) is rapid and heavy because arterial blood is under direct pressure from the heart It can spurt from the wound making it difficult for clots to form Venous blood is under less pressure and flows from the wound at a steady rate (without spurting) Only damage to major veins deep in the body, such as torso or though produces profuse bleeding that is hard to control

Answer 40

Blood spurting or flowing freely from a wound Blood that fails to clot after you have taken all measures to control it Large amounts of blood loss

Answer 41

Call EMS but don’t delay applying pressure Ask a bystander or call from mobile phone while you start helping If you are alone and don’t have access to a phone, put pressure immediately Once you’ve started to control the bleeding you can look for a phone and call EMS

Answer 42

1. Have the person rest quietly. Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound 2. While maintaining direct pressure, apply a dressing and bandage in it’s place 3. If blood soaks through the bandage, apply another dressing on top 4. If direct pressure does not control the bleeding, consider using a tourniquet if the wound is on a limb

Answer 43

Tight band placed around an extremity (e.g. arm or leg) Constricts the blood vessels to stop life threatening bleeding in circumstances where applying direct pressure to control the bleeding is impossible or not effective

Answer 44

If a person has life-threatening external bleeding and you are not able to control it with direct pressure or if medical care will be delayed The bleeding is not controlled by direct pressure alone You are unable to apply direct pressure (if you cannot access the wound) You must move the person, and can’t apply direct pressure while you do so

Answer 45

1. Place the tourniquet on the limb. It should be one hand's width above the injury and at least 2 fingers width above any joint 2. Tighten the tourniquet until the bleeding stops 3. Secure the tourniquet in place 4. Document the time the tourniquet was tightened Should not be removed once in place Can only be used if the wound is on the limb

Answer 46

Internal bleeding is the escape of blood from the arteries, veins or capillaries into spaces in the body You should suspect internal bleeding after an injury that involves a forceful blow to the bod such as a fall from a height May also occur when a sharp object, such as a knife, penetrates the skin and damages internal structures

Answer 47

Bruising and pain in the injured area Soft tissues that are tender, swollen or hard Blood in saliva or vomit Severe thirst, nausea or vomiting Anxiety

Answer 48

Cal EMS and get an AED Have the person rest quietly until EMS personnel arrive

Answer 49

AKA cardiopulmonary resuscitation Used when a person is unresponsive and not breathing Involves giving sets of 30 chest compressions followed by sets of 2 rescue breaths CPR keeps oxygenated blood moving to the brain and other vital organs until advanced medical help arrives

Answer 50

Clinical death occurs when breathing stops and heart stops beating A person without a heartbeat is clinically dead Because permanent brain damage does not begin for 4-6 minutes, clinical death is reversible with immediate care and intervention such as CPR Biological death occurs when the brain is irreversibly damaged, which happens about 8-10 minutes without oxygen. This is also called brain death

Answer 51

Call: Have someone call EMS and get an AED If you are alone, call EMS, get an AED and then return to care for the person If you are alone with a child or baby, and not close to a phone, do 5 cycles (2 min) or CPR before calling EMS. If you don’t suspect a head and/or spinal injury, take the child or baby with you to call EMS and get an AED and then continue to provide care

Answer 52

1. Do 30 chest compressions Put 2 fingers in the center of the baby’s chest, just below the nipple line Push deeply and steadily, allowing the chest to recoil between compressions 2. Give 2 breaths Open the airway Place your barrier device over the babies mouth and nose Give just enough air to make the chest start to rise 3. If both breaths go in, repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths

Answer 53

1. Do 30 chest compressions Put 2 hands in the center of the person’s chest Push deeply and steadily, allowing the chest to recoil between compressions 2. Give 2 breaths Open the airway Place your barrier device over the person’s mouth and nose and pinch the person’s nostrils Give just enough air to make the chest start to rise 3. If both breaths go in, repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths

Answer 54

Do compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute. 30 compressions in about 15-18 seconds Don’t lean on person’s chest between compressions, the chest needs to fully recoil so the heart can refill with blood, which is then pumped through the body with the next compression

Answer 55

Could be issue with airway such as a blockage If it doesn’t rise after first breath, try to open the airway by repositioning the head with a head-tilt/chin lift If that doesn’t work, look in a person’s mouth for an object, if you see one, use your finger to sweep it out. Continue to look into the person’s mouth after each set of compressions until the airway is clear (your breaths go in) Once rescue breaths go in, continue CPR normally

Answer 56

EMS personnel or another person takes over You are too tired to continue The scene becomes unsafe You notice an obvious sign of life, such as movement

Answer 57

Only chest compressions without rescue breaths, to pump the heart If you are unwilling or unable to give rescue breaths for any reason, compression only CPR is acceptable If you are caring for a child, a baby or any person who is in cardiac arrest because of a respiratory problem (choking, drowning, anaphylaxis or asphyxiation), the person may not have much oxygen remaining in their blood, and circulating deoxygenated blood is not very useful In these situations, traditional CPR is recommended

Answer 58

A baby’s lungs are small so rescue breaths should consist of small puffs of air (just enough to make the chest start to rise) A baby's head should only be tilted into a sniffing position. Tilting it back too far will close off and possibly damage the baby’s airway

Answer 59

If you have arthritis or one of your hands arn’t strong enough for regular compressions, use the one hand compression method Place the heel of one hand in the middle of a person’s chest Grasp the wrist of that hand with your other hand Straighten your arms as much as possible without hurting yourself Begin compressions

Answer 60

Raising her right hip 7.5 to 10 cm will help blood return to heart If a bystander is present, ask to help find a soft object to place under hip but don’t interrupt or delay starting CPR If something is available closeby, grab it

Answer 61

Important to keep head tilted back with just enough force to cause the chest to rise or fall Failing to tilt head back, giving too much hair in one breath or blowing forcefully can push air into person’s stomach instead of lungs Air in stomach can make someone vomit, and if unresponsive it can go into lungs. This is called aspiration Aspiration makes giving rescue breaths more difficult, which reduces the effectiveness of CPR and the person’s chance of breathing on their own To prevent this, give breaths only until chest starts to rise and fall

Answer 62

Turn onto side, facing you Quickly wipe their mouth clean Reposition on back and continue CPR

Answer 63

Open and turn on Apply AED Pads - Remove any clothing, jewelry and medical patches that could interfere with pad placement - If chest is wet, dry the skin - Place the pads at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) away from the pacemaker Follow the AEDs automatic prompts If the AED prompts you to do so, ensure that no one is touching the person and deliver a shock Continue CPR, starting with compressions

Answer 64

Some AEDs come with pediatric AED pads that are smaller and specifically designed to analyze a child’s heart rhythm and deliver a low level of energy Should be used on children up to 8 years old or less than 25 kgs(55 lbs) Other AEDs have a key or switch that configures for child use If not available use adult pads and adult energy levels

Answer 65

Many AED’s come with a first aid kit or prep kit that contains a towel, razor, barrier device, and a pair of gloves Work best when used with these supplies so important that prep kits are regularly inspected and maintained (weekly, monthly, yearly) to ensure that the supplies are available and works properly

Answer 66

Refers to a group of drugs that bond with opioid receptors in the brain, slowing down the central nervous system They include opiates, which are drugs made from the opium poppy, like morphine, semi synthetics like heroin, and synthetic drugs made in a lab like fentanyl Medically, opioids are used primarily for pain relief, including anesthesia Cough relief and in treatment of chronic pain

Answer 67

The number of opioid toxicity deaths in Canada is rising and many of these happen by accidents Opioid poisoning is a growing public health crisis in Canada

Answer 68

Lifesaving medication that rapidly but, temporarily reverses the effects Commonly available as an easy to use nasal spray or an intramuscular injection Take hone kits are available across Canada for free Distributed by pharmacies, social service organizations, or public health units depending on region When you take an opioid, it bonds with certain receptors in the brain Naloxone works by kicking opioids off those receptors and taking their place This reverses or blocks the slowing down effects on the central nervous system, particularly the person's breathing

Answer 69

Stigma that prevents users from getting help Opioid use disorder is not a choice, it is a medical condition and can begin with the desire to alleviate physical pain/suffering/trauma. Or, from the accidental misuse of the prescribed medication Reducing stigma means changing people’s ideas about opioids and people who use it Many stereotypes about people who use opioids which are harmful and false By reducing stigma, we can begin to remove barriers to help, which will lead to a faster response rates and better health outcomes

Answer 70

Slowed breathing, choking or snoring sounds Extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness Pale or blue/gray skin or lips Small pupils Seizures Clammy skin

Answer 71

Call EMS and get an AED and naloxone if available Check the person and proceed based on what you see If the person is responsive and breathing normally during your ABC check Roll them into the recovery position Frequently reassess their ABCSs, as they may change Stay with the person until emergency medical services personnel arrive Be prepared to administer naloxone if available If the person in unresponsive but breathing normally, administer naloxone and monitor the person closely If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR and administer naloxone (ASAP). Continue CPR until EMS personnel arrive or the person’s condition improvised

Answer 72

Getting a permission to help a person who has been poisoned by opioids is not possible since they’re unresponsive In these cases, the law assumes the person would give permission if they were able to do so, called implied consent It only applies to naloxone and not to other medication If you believe that the unresponsive person is suffering from opioid poisoning, administer naloxone

Answer 73

Remove the nasal spray from the packaging Place thumb on plunger and hold the nasal spray top between your middle and index fingers Gently tilt the person’s head back slightly and support it in this position Insert the tip of the device into one of the person’s nostrils until your fingers come into contact with the bottom of the person’s nose Administer the entire dose of medication by pressing firmly on the plunger and then remove the device from the person’s nostril immediately Use a new nasal spray for each repeated dose

Answer 74

When intramuscular naloxone is available to use, you will receive training on how to use it when it is given to you by a local pharmacist or health care professional

Answer 75

Fast acting Two to five minutes, you should see some improvements If there are no changes, additional calzone may be required or there is some underlying issue Continue CPR until you see improvements (increased responsiveness, signs of normal breathing) The person may be agitated when they wake up, so be prepared to move back if needed, they may vomit or be confused Remember that naloxone may be re-administered for every 2-5 minutes if there is no improvement in condition

Answer 76

Allows you to breathe Brings oxygen into the body and removes carbon dioxide Works with the circulation system (which carries oxygen through the body) and the nervous system (which controls breathing rates)

Answer 77

Consists of the upper and lower airway and the lungs When you breathe in and out The diaphragm contracts and relaxes The chest cavity expands and relaxes Air moves in and out of the lungs If breathing stops or is restricted long enough, they will become unresponsive, the heart will stop beating and the body’s system will quickly fail Brain cells begin to die after 4-6 minutes without oxygen

Answer 78

A person who is having difficulty breathing is in respiratory distress A person who is not breathing is in respiratory arrest (start CPR immediately) Breathing emergencies are dangerous in children as they can quickly lead to cardiac arrest Any child showing signs of respiratory distress is in a potentially life-threatening situation and must receive immediate care A breathing problem can be identified by watching and listening to the person’s breathing and asking how they feel If they’re having trouble breathing, don’t wait for it to improve without intervention, begin providing care immediately

Answer 79

Shortness of breath or gasping for breath Trouble speaking in complete sentences Wheezing, gurgling or high pitched noises Breathing abnormally (quickly or slowly) Unusually deep or shallow breathing Cool, moist skin Bluish or shen (gray) skin Flushed or pale skin Feelings of fear Dizziness or light headedness

Answer 80

Care: If the person cares medication for respiratory distress, offer to help the person take it Encourage them to sit in a comfortable position. Leaning forward may help make breathing easier Provide recurrence, as this can reduce anxiety and help control breathing Monitor the person’s condition and provide continual care until EMS arrive

Answer 81

Occurs when a person is breathing too quickly which upsets the body's balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide If you tend to hyperventilate due to anxiety, panic, or stress, relaxation techniques such as breathing exercise may help If it is because of a diagnosed medical condition, speak to doctor to understand how to treat it or control it

Answer 82

Strong emotions such as excitement, fear or anxiety Other respiratory condition Injuries, especially injuries to the head or chest Exercise Life-threatening bleeding

Answer 83

Rapid, shallow breathing A feeling of suffocation or not getting enough air Fear, anxiety or confusion Dizziness Numbness or tingling of the fingers and toes Muscle contractions, usually in the hands, feet, arms, and legs

Answer 84

Not always necessary to call EMS for someone hyperventilating Get an AED and call if it does not stop after a few minutes, they become unresponsive, or suspect they are hyperventilating because of an underlying injury or illness Care Encourage them to take controlled breaths by breathing in slowly, holding their breath for a few seconds, then gradually exhaling

Answer 85

People who has asthma usually know what will trigger an attack and take measures to avoid these triggers More common in children and usually controlled with medication

Answer 86

Air pollution or poor air quality (e.g. cigarette smoke) Allergies (e.g. pollen or animals) Temperature fluctuations, extreme humidity, or extreme dryness Strong odours (e.g. perfume, cologne, scented cleaning products) Illness (e.g. colds, flus, and respiratory infections) Physical activity Stress or anxiety

Answer 87

If you have asthma: Avoid things that trigger attacks if possible Ensure medication is always easily accessible in case of an attack If a child has asthma: Make sure anyone who supervises the child knows about the condition and how to help give medication if necessary

Answer 88

Sometimes called preventers Taken regularly, whether or not signs or symptoms are present Help prevent attacks by reducing inflammation and swelling and making bronchioles less sensitive to triggers

Answer 89

Taken during an asthma attack Sometimes called bronchodilators since they work quickly to relax the muscles that tighten around the bronchioles, opening (dilating) them immediately so they can breathe more easily

Answer 90

Eliminate any asthma triggers if possible If something in the environment is causing it, move them away Help the person get into a comfortable position and provide reassurance Help the person to take their prescribed quick-relief asthma medication

Answer 91

What to look for Same as those for respiratory distress but more difficulty exhaling What to do Call EMS and get an AED if struggling to breathe or if a person’s breathing does not improved after taking their medication

Answer 92

Shake 3 or 4 times and remove the cap Breathe out then bring inhaler to the mouth Press the top of the inhaler while taking one slow, full breath Hold the breath for as long as is comfortable and then breathe out

Answer 93

Shake inhaler and then remove the cap Put the inhaler into the spacer Bring the spacer to the mouth and then press the top of the inhaler Take slow, deep breaths holding each breath for several seconds (if possible)

Answer 94

In a person with an allergy, the body’s immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances and produces an allergic reaction While certain substance are more common as allergens (e.g. peanuts and pollen) almost anything can produce an allergic reaction The severity of an allergic reaction depends on the person It can be minor as a slight irritation or as serious as a life-threatening emergency

Answer 95

Read ingredient labels carefully and ask questions about ingredients and food preparation when eating Avoid triggers such as foods and medications that have caused any type of allergic reaction in the past Tell others about any allergies you have. They can help identify exposure risks that may have otherwise gone unnoticed

Answer 96

Runny, itchy, or stuffy nose Sneezing Watery, itchy, red, or swollen eyes Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea A rash or hives (raised, itchy areas of skin) Tingling of the mouth Swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat Coughing, chest tightness, wheezing, or shortness of breath Weakness, dizziness, or confusion

Answer 97

Call EMS Calm and reassure the person. Try to identify the allergen and have the person avoid further contact with it. If the person uses a medication to control allergic reactions (such as antihistamines), help him or her to take it. Calm/reassure them as anxiety worsens symptoms If possible, reduce exposure by moving from the room or removing allergin from person by cleaning If an anaphylactic reaction, use the person’s epinephrine auto-injector first, and then try to reduce the exposure.

Answer 98

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. While mild allergic reactions are localized, anaphylaxis is a body-wide reaction that can cause system-wide inflammation and swelling. In some cases, the air passages swell, making it difficult to breathe. It is important to act quickly when a person is experiencing anaphylaxis, as it can lead to death if it is not cared for immediately

Answer 99

Anything that causes an allergic reaction can also cause anaphylaxis. Varies but some common triggers include: Insect stings Food Medications

Answer 100

The only sure way to prevent anaphylactic reactions is to avoid triggers (the substances, foods, insects, etc. that cause reactions.) If you know that you have anaphylactic reactions, you should carry an epinephrine auto-injector with you wherever you go. You might also want to wear a medical identification product so that people will know how to help you if a reaction happens.

Answer 101

Two or more of the following, especially after contact with a allergen Skin (e.g., swelling of the lips, face, neck, ears, and/or hands; a raised, itchy, blotchy rash, flushing, or hives) Breathing (e.g., a feeling of tightness in the chest or throat, coughing, wheezing, or high-pitched noises) Alertness (e.g., weakness, dizziness, or unresponsiveness) Stomach (e.g., stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea)

Answer 102

Call EMS and get an AED If they have an epinephrine auto-injector, help them use it Remove the safety cap Firmly push the tip against the outer thigh. You should hear a click Hold in place as directed, usually for 5-10 seconds Rub the injection site for 30 seconds If the person’s condition does not improve within 5 minutes. The second dose should be given in the leg that you did not use for the first dose Have the person rest quietly until EMS personnel arrive

Answer 103

Skin is a type of soft tissue, along with fat and muscle The skin has two main layers: the superficial or top layer (the epidermis) and the deep layer (the dermis) The superficial layer provides a barrier against bacteria and other organisms that can cause infections The deep layer contains important structures: the nerves, the sweat, and oil glands and the blood vessels

Answer 104

Open wounds: Wounds that break the skin (e.g. cuts, impaled objects, and amputations) Closed wounds: Wounds that damage soft tissue without breaking the skin (e.g. bruises, crash injuries, and blunt chest trauma)

Answer 105

Develop safe habits, such as not running with sharp objects. Use proper safety equipment when playing sports or engaging in recreational activities Wear proper safety equipment and follow all procedures in the workplace Request training before using any potentially dangerous tools or equipment in the workplace Stay alert and focused when engaging in any potentially risky activity.

Answer 106

Open wounds should be covered with a dressing and a bandage. Dressings and bandages are used to control bleeding, to apply pressure, to provide support, and to protect a wound from dirt and infection. Before applying a bandage, check the circulation and sensation in the limb below the site of the injury. If a bandage is too tight the limb below the bandage may become cold or numb, or it might begin to turn blue or paler than normal. If you see any of these signs, loosen the bandage a little. Many items that can be used as improvised dressings or bandages (e.g., face cloths, tea towels, or articles of clothing). Ensure that any item you decide to use as a dressing is clean and absorbent.

Answer 107

Use clean, sterile dressings. If blood soaks through, leave the soaked dressing in place and apply another on top.

Answer 108

Cuts and scrapes are minor injuries to the top layer of skin. A cut is a wound where the skin has been spit open. The edges of the cut can be jagged or smooth. A scrape is a wound where the skin has been rubbed or scraped away A puncture wound is a hole in the skin created by a pointed object - it is a more serious injury than a cut or scrape If a cut is bleeding heavily, you should provide care for life-threatening external bleeding

Answer 109

Injuries from pointed objects such as nails or pieces of glass Falls onto hard surfaces Animal bites

Answer 110

Signs for a cut or scrape is pain and bleeding Signs of a puncture wound may include bruising and a visible hole where the object went through the skin Call EMS if you suspect more serious injuries If the person has a puncture wound, call EMS and get an AED if the wound is deep or large

Answer 111

If the wound is bleeding significantly, apply direct pressure until it stops Rinse the wound for 5 minutes with clean, running tap water Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream and bandage the wound Ensure that the person knows to watch for signs of infection over the next few days

Answer 112

A splinter (or “sliver”) is a sharp, thin piece of something that is stuck in the surface of the skin. If the splinter is completely below the skin, encourage the person to seek medical attention rather than attempting to remove it yourself. Gently grab the exposed end of the splinter with tweezers and carefully pull it out. Treat the wound as a cut.

Answer 113

An impaled object is anything that has penetrated through the skin and is stuck in the tissues below. Common Causes An object can become impaled when any type of force causes it to penetrate the skin and the tissues below.

Answer 114

Visibly sticking out of the person’s and may cause shock, pain, bleeding Leave object in place Stabilize the object using bulky dressings without putting direct pressure on it Secure the dressings in place

Answer 115

An amputation occurs when part of the body is completely or partially severed. Although this causes a lot of damage to the surrounding tissues, bleeding may or may not be severe.

Answer 116

Keep everyone’s hands clear of doors when they are closing. Use caution near train tracks: Only cross at designated crossings, and never walk along the tracks. Be extremely careful when on or around any machinery, even when it is turned off or not operating.

Answer 117

Call EMS Apply direct pressure to the wound Protect it: wrap it in gauze or a clean cloth Bag it: place it in a plastic bag Cool it: keep the bag on ice. Wrap the bag before cooling it so the body part does not freeze Tag it: label the container with the person’s name, the date and the time and keep it with the person

Answer 118

Burns are soft-tissue injuries caused by chemicals, electricity, heat, or radiation. Deep or widespread burns can lead to many complications that cause the person’s condition to deteriorate quickly. If you encounter a serious burn your job is to quickly call EMS/9-1-1, cool the burn, and closely monitor the person’s ABCs.

Answer 119

Superficial: Affects only the top layer of skin (epidermis) Partial-Thickness: Affects both layers of skin (epidermis and dermis) Full-Thickness: Affects both layers of skin, as well as underlying structures (fat, muscle, bone, and nerves)

Answer 120

Keep electrical appliances away from water If an electrical cord is frayed, fix it or dispose of it If there are young children in the building, cover electrical outlets Before approaching a person with a suspected electrical burn, make sure that trained personnel turn off the electrical current

Answer 121

Store chemicals in original containers Wear protective gear when handling chemicals Get trained in a hazardous materials training programs such as the Workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS)/ Globally harmonized system (GHS) of classification and labeling of chemicals Read the label before using a product Be aware of caustic plants in your area

Answer 122

As soon as a storm is seen or heard, stop swimming or boating and get away from the water Stay indoors during thunderstorms. A picnic shelter or car (with the windows rolled up) will also provide protection If caught outside, stay away from telephone poles and tall trees. Stay off hilltops and try to crouch down in a ravine or valley if shelter is not available Stay away from things that conduct electricity, such as farm equipment, small metal vehicles (e.g.g motorcycles, bicycles and golf carts), wire fences, clotheslines, metal pipes, and railings

Answer 123

When cooking on the stove, turn the pot handles inward and use only the back burners when possible Keep the hot water tank temperature at or below 49 C or 120F Keep children away from heat sources and alliances, such as ovens, barbecues, space heaters, wood stoves, candles, and fireplaces Keep hot drinks out of children’s reach

Answer 124

Limit exposure to the sun between 10am and 3pm, if possible Wear light coloured clothing that covers as much as the body as possible Use broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and apply it 15-30 min before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, as well as being in the water after swimming

Answer 125

Don’t need to call EMS for a superficial burn, unless in a lot of pain Call EMS and get an AED immediately if: The burn makes it difficult for the person to breathe The burn was caused by chemicals, explosions, or electricity The burn is full thickness, or involves a large amount of blistered or broken skin The burn covers the face, neck, hands, genitals or a larger surface area Burns on the face indicate that the person’s airway or lungs are burnt If you suspect this is the case, continually monitor the person’s breathing while you provide are and wait for EMS

Answer 126

Cool the affected area with water or a clean, cool (but not freezing) compress for at least 10 minutes Remove jewelry and clothing from the burn site, but do not attempt to move anything that is stuck to the skin Cover the burn loosely with a dry and sterile dressing

Answer 127

Put on protective equipment. Remove any clothes that might have the chemical on them, and brush any dry chemical powder off the person’s skin. Flush with large amounts of cool running water for at least 15 minutes. Refer to the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), if it is available, for additional first aid measures. Any potentially harmful chemical in the workplace should be accompanied by information about first aid care. Consult the appropriate documentation if it is available, but don’t delay calling EMS/9-1-1 to do so.

Answer 128

If the person has serious electrical burns or was struck by lightning, treat the person as if he or she has a head and/or spinal injury. Electricity or lightning can impact the electrical system of the heart. Someone with serious electrical burns may stop breathing. Carefully monitor the person’s ABCs, get an AED, and be prepared to start CPR. Ensure that the electrical current has been turned off. Keep the person still. Look for two burns (the entry and exit points) and treat them as thermal burns.

Answer 129

Don’t use ointments on partial or full thickness burns Blisters are a natural cooling system. Leave them in place Touch a burn only with sterile or clean dressings Don’t use absorbent cotton dressings or pull clothes over any burned areas Monitor for hypothermia when cooling large burns. This is particularly important in children. Cover with a blanket if they complain of feeling cold

Answer 130

A discolored area of the skin that is created when blood or other fluids seep into nearby tissues Signs and symptoms: Discolored skin (red, purple, black or blue areas) Swelling Pain

Answer 131

Call EMS and get an AED immediately if the person is in severe pain or cannot move a body part without pain or if the injury would have caused serious internal damage or life-threatening bleeding Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel for up to 2 minutes, remove it for 20 to 30 minutes. Continue to do this until the pain is reduced

Answer 132

Nosebleeds may be caused by the following: Forceful nose blowing High blood pressure Dry weather conditions Trauma to the nose or head Bleeding disorders

Answer 133

Use a humidifier if the air indoors is dry. Wear protective athletic equipment when participating in sports that could cause injuries to the nose. Blow your nose gently.

Answer 134

Call EMS/9-1-1 if the bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes. Have the person sit with the head slightly forward. Pinch the person’s nostrils for 10 to 15 minutes. You should make sure the person gets medical attention if the bleeding continues after using the pinching technique, if the bleeding starts again, or if the bleeding was caused by a medical condition (such as high blood pressure) or head injury

Answer 135

Unusual noises when the person breathes through his or her nose Bleeding Nose deformity

Answer 136

If you can easily see and grasp the object, remove it. If the object cannot be dislodged easily, leave it in place for a medical professional to remove. Discourage the person from attempting to remove the object and from blowing his or her nose.

Answer 137

A tooth can be knocked out by any kind of blow to the mouth. Wear appropriate equipment when playing sports, such as a mouth guard or face mask. Always wear a seat belt while in the car and do not eat or drink in a moving car. Bleeding (although this is often very minimal) Pain in the mouth

Answer 138

Call EMS and get an AED if the knocked out tooth was caused by a forceful blow to the head, especially if unresponsive or suspect there are other more serious injuries Have the person bite down on a clean dressing Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (the whiter part) and keep it protected Get the person and the tooth to a dentist asap

Answer 139

Eye injuries can have long-term consequences for a person’s vision, so they must always be treated with extreme care. Avoid touching the eye or putting pressure on or around it, as this can cause further damage. Wounds involving the eyelids or eye sockets should also be treated as eye injuries.

Answer 140

Foreign objects or particles in the eye An impact to the eye Radiation or burns Chemicals or other caustic materials

Answer 141

Wearing appropriate equipment in the workplace (e.g., safety glasses) Wearing appropriate equipment when playing sports (e.g., wearing a helmet with a visor or face protector when playing hockey)

Answer 142

Pain and irritation in the eye Redness of the eye Difficulty opening the eye Problems with vision Watering of the eye Deformities of the eye

Answer 143

Call EMS if there is an impaled object in or near the eye, the eye is out of socket, or the eye has been exposed to a chemical or caustic substance If there is something in the eye but not impaled Have the person blink several times Gently flush the eye with running water If these steps don’t remove it, the person should seek medical attention If there is a chemical in eye Gently flush with running water (letting water run away from the unaffected eye) for at least 15 minutes or until EMS personnel arrive If the eyes were flash burned Cover eyes with a cool, wet cloth Make sure the person gets medical attention

Answer 144

An impact to the head Cuts or tears to the ear Loud noises Blast injuries Foreign objects or substances in the ear

Answer 145

Wear proper protection when using loud equipment such as lawn mowers or chainsaws. Wear a helmet and other recommended safety gear when participating in sports and physical activities. Cover the ears when there is a risk of foreign objects or substances entering the ear (e.g., wear a swim cap when participating in water activities).

Answer 146

Call EMS if there is blood or other fluid draining from the ear canal or if the injury is a result of an explosion or pressure injury If the injury is an external wound, treat it the same way you would treat a wound on any other part of the body If there is a foreign object in the ear, but you don;t suspect a head, neck or spinal injury, and it looks as if the object can be easily removed Steps Tilt the head to the affected side and then gently tap the lear to loosen the object Grab the object and pull it out

Answer 147

Occurs when dirt, foreign bodies or other materials carrying germs get into a wound. Infections can be localized (e.g. in a cut) or systemic (throughout the body) Infections accompanied by nausea, fever or general malaise are typically systemic and can be life-threatening

Answer 148

Always wash hands before and after given first aid Wear gloves whenever you come into contact with someone’s bodily fluids Keep your immunizations up to date. If you have been wounded and don’t know when your last tetanus shot was, seek medical attention Keep any wound area clean and wash it regularly. Change the dressing and bandages if they become dirty or wet Use sterile dressings. If sterile dressings are unavailable, use the cleanest option possible

Answer 149

Redness Red streaks moving away from the wound Pus Heat or warmth Swelling Tenderness Excessive itchiness

Answer 150

Wounds on a person’s scalp can affect the brain. When performing a secondary assessment on a person with a suspected scalp injury, check the scalp thoroughly to ensure that you have uncovered the full extent of the injury.

Answer 151

Call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED if you are not sure how serious the scalp injury is or if you feel a dip, a soft area, or pieces of bone. If you feel a dip, a soft area, or pieces of bone: Treat the injury as a head injury. Apply direct pressure only if there is life-threatening bleeding; otherwise, try to control the bleeding by putting pressure on the area around the

Answer 152

Chest injuries can impact the ribs and the organs they protect. They can involve open wounds or internal injuries. If ribs are broken, they can penetrate the skin or the lungs, causing additional harm. Injuries to the chest can result in conditions known as pneumothorax (air in the chest) or hemothorax (blood in the chest).

Answer 153

Gasping or difficulty breathing Bleeding from an open chest wound that may bubble A sucking sound coming from the wound with each breath Coughing up blood

Answer 154

Call EMS and get an AED Have the person rest in a comfortable position If there is an open wound and it is bleeding profusely apply direct pressure. If the bleeding is light, do not apply pressure or a dressing

Answer 155

Deformity or swelling Guarded, shallow breathing Bruising Call EMS Keep the person as still as possible Give the person something bulky (such as a towel) to hold against the chest

Answer 156

Injuries to the head, neck, and spine can damage bones, such as the skull or vertebrae, and tissues, such as the brain and spinal cord. Head injuries are often accompanied by spinal injuries.' A person with a superficial head wound may also have a more serious underlying head injury. Depending on the nature and severity of the head, neck, or spinal injury, the person may be left with permanent damage (e.g., paralysis, speech impairment, memory problems, or behavioral conditions). Although injuries to the head and spine account for a small percentage of all injuries, they cause more than half of the fatalities.

Answer 157

The brain lies in a sac of fluid inside the skull, which cushions the brain from daily movement and most jarring forces. Because the skull is hard, there isn’t much room for the brain to move or swell. Injuries to the head can cause bleeding that increases the pressure inside the skull and damages brain tissue.

Answer 158

The spine is a strong, flexible column of small bones called vertebrae. It surrounds and protects the spinal cord (a bundle of nerves that runs between the brain and the lower back). Severe injuries can move or break the vertebrae so that they squeeze or cut the spinal cord, causing temporary or permanent paralysis or even death. Swelling of the soft tissues in the spine can also cause damage.

Answer 159

Motor vehicle collisions Recreation and sports injuries Falls A blow to the head or back Violent acts, such as assault

Answer 160

Wear safety belts with shoulder restraints when in a vehicle Wear all recommended protective equipment for the activity you are engaged in (e.g., approved bicycle helmets) Prevent falls around the home and workplace with non-slip floors, non-slip treads on stairs, handrails on staircases, rugs secured with double-sided adhesive tape, and handrails by the bathtub and toilet if necessary Make sure that there is good lighting in stairways and hallways Make sure that your workplace is clean and tidy. Keep floors and aisles uncluttered and make sure that there is nothing blocking stairways, work sites, or exits Check equipment (e.g., warehouse forklifts, ladders, and scaffolding) regularly for worn or loose parts Use ladders carefully and correctly Always be very careful around water

Answer 161

A fall from any height greater than the height of the person A diving injury (e.g., diving head-first into shallow water) A person found unresponsive for unknown reasons An injury that involves a strong blow to the lower jaw, head, or torso (e.g., colliding with another person while playing a sport) An injury that causes a wound in the head or torso A motor vehicle collision or rollover An injury in which a person’s helmet is damaged A person has been struck by lightning A person has been electrocuted

Answer 162

Severe pain or pressure in the head, neck, or back Blood or other fluids in the ears or cose Unusual bumps, bruises or depressions Seizures Impaired breathing or vision Nausea or vomiting Unequal pupil size Partial or complete loss of movement of any body part Loss of bladder or bowel control

Answer 163

Changes in level of responsiveness, awareness and behavior Weakness, tingling, or loss of sensation Dizziness and/or loss of balance

Answer 164

Approach the person from the front so that he or she can see you without turning his or her head. Tell the person to respond verbally to your questions, rather than nodding or shaking his or her head. Call EMS and get an AED Have the person keep as still as possible until EMS personnel arrive: If the person is unresponsive or unable to support his or her own head, support it with your hands in the position found. In the case of a non-breathing person, the two main goals of first aid—to maintain life and to prevent further injury—may conflict. People may not die from a head, neck, or spinal injury, but they will certainly die if they can’t breathe.

Answer 165

The person’s airway is at risk (e.g., the person vomits while on his or her back) The scene becomes unsafe There is no organized EMS response in the region (i.e., the response time will be more than 45 minutes) The person needs to be rolled into the recovery position (e.g., the person is unresponsive) When moving the person, try to keep the head, neck, and spine in the position you found him or her in. Avoid unnecessary jostling and move the person only as much as is necessary

Answer 166

Concussions are a common subset of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) that involve a temporary alteration of brain function. Evolving injuries, and the effects may appear instantly or have a gradual onset. Signs and symptoms can last for days, weeks, or even months. The majority of concussions, however, resolve in a short period of time. Concussions are often left untreated because the symptoms are not always recognized by the person who has been injured, and the signs are not always obvious to others.

Answer 167

A blunt force to the head or jaw An explosion Whiplash A forceful blow to the body Shaking (in the case of a baby)

Answer 168

Drowsiness Clouded or foggy mindset Seeming stunned or dazed Temporary memory loss Slowed reaction times

Answer 169

Neck pain, headache, or pressure Loss of responsiveness Dizziness or loss of balance Changes to vision Sleeping more or less than usual Nausea or vomiting Sensitivity to light and/or noise Seizure

Answer 170

Irritability Heightened emotions Personality changes

Answer 171

Changes in playing, sleeping or eating habits Excessive crying Lack of interest in activities or favorite toys

Answer 172

Call EMS/9-1-1 if the person has any of the following symptoms: Repeated or projectile vomiting Loss of responsiveness of any duration Lack of physical coordination (e.g., stumbling and unusual clumsiness) Confusion, disorientation, or memory loss Changes to normal speech Seizures Vision and ocular changes (e.g., double vision or unequal pupil size) Persistent dizziness or loss of balance Weakness or tingling in the arms or legs Sever or increasing headache

Answer 173

Bones are strong, hard, dense tissues that come in many different sizes and shapes. More than 200 bones make up the skeleton, creating the framework for the body. Muscles are soft tissues that can contract and relax. Most muscles are skeletal muscles, which are attached to bones by tendons and move the body when they receive signals from the brain. Joints are formed wherever two or more bones are held together by ligaments that allow movement.

Answer 174

Supporting the body Protecting internal organs Allowing movement Storing minerals Producing blood cells Producing heat through movement

Answer 175

Happens when a ligament is stretched, torn or damaged Ligaments are tissues that connect bones together at the joints Sprains most commonly affect the ankle, knee, wrist and finger joints

Answer 176

Happens when a tendon or muscle is stretched, torn or damaged Connects muscles or bones Often caused by overworking a muscle (e.g. by lifting an overly heavy object or by repeatedly performing the same action) Usually involve the muscles in the neck, thigh, or the back of the lower leg Repetitive strain injuries are caused by doing the same action over and over Common in a workplace setting and cause persistent or recurring pain, usually in neck, shoulders or limbs Prevention and early recognition are key: a person with a suspected repetitive strain injury should follow up with a healthcare provider

Answer 177

Happens when the bones that meet a joint move out of their normal position This type is caused by a violent force that tears the ligaments, allowing the bones to move out of place

Answer 178

Happens when an injury causes a complete break, chip or crack in a bone Fractures can be open (the end of the broken bone breaks through the skin) Open fractures are also called ‘compound fractures’

Answer 179

Falls Awkward or sudden movements Direct blows to the body Repetitive actions or forces, such as jogging or working in an assembly line

Answer 180

Different type of bone, muscle and joint injuries have different signs or symptoms Deformity, swelling or bruising Limited or no use of the injured body part A broken bone or bone fragments sticking out of the skin A sensation or sound of bones grating

Answer 181

Always wear seat belts and shoulder restraints when in a vehicle. Wear all safety equipment that is required or recommended (e.g., helmets, goggles, and pads). Put non-slip adhesive strips or a mat in the bathtub and shower stall. Stretch before exercising. Avoid overexertion and take breaks often. Children should learn their limits and rest when they are too tired or frustrated to continue safely. Falls: Good lighting Sturdy railings on staircases Non-slip floors and rugs

Answer 182

Rest: have the person rest comfortably Immobilize: keep the injured area as still as possible Cool: cool the injured area for 20 minutes of every hour Elevate: raise the injury as long as this does not increase the pain

Answer 183

Call EMS if There are injuries to the thigh bone or pelvis The area below the injury is numb, pale, blue or cold A broken bone is protruding through the skin You cannot safely move the person

Answer 184

If there is an open fracture, stop the bleeding first. Ice and cold packs help reduce swelling, as well as ease pain and discomfort. When applying ice or a cold pack to the injured area, ensure the ice or cold pack is wrapped in a thin, dry towel. Do not rub the ice or cold pack on the injured area. To avoid damaging nerves, blood vessels, and tissues, do not perform traction or any other manipulation.

Answer 185

In general, immobilizing the injured area just means having the person keep it still. You should only apply a sling or splint if you need to move the person to another location. This may be necessary if: The scene becomes unsafe (e.g., you smell a gas leak). EMS personnel will be delayed (e.g., you are in a remote area).

Answer 186

Check for normal temperature and skin colour below the injured area before and after immobilizing the limb: If the area is cold before immobilizing, call EMS/9-1-1. If the area is cold after immobilizing, loosen the splint gently. Immobilize the injured part in the position in which it was found. Make sure the splint is long enough to include the joint above and below the injury. Remove jewellery below the site of the injury. Pad slings and splints for comfort. Slings and splints can be improvised from everyday materials such as scarves and rolled newspapers if commercial versions are not available.

Answer 187

Have the person hold the injured arm across the body Slide a triangular bandage under the injured arm Bring the bottom end of the bandage over the shoulder of the injured side and tie the ends together Secure the elbow by twisting, tying or pinning the corner of the bandage Secure the arm to the body with a broad bandage

Answer 188

Have the person support the injured arm Place a triangular bandage over the forearm and hand Tuck the lower edge under the arm and twist the end to secure the elbow Tie the bandage ends together Secure the arm to the body with a broad bandage

Answer 189

An acute illness strikes suddenly and usually only lasts for a short period of time (such as the flu). A chronic illness is something that a person lives with on an ongoing basis and that often requires continuous treatment to manage (such as diabetes). When a person has a sudden medical emergency, it may be the result of an acute illness, or it may be a flare-up of a chronic condition If your initial check of the person reveals any life-threatening conditions, make sure that someone calls EMS/9-1-1 right away, and then provide care according to the signs and symptoms that you find and your level of training. Follow the same general guidelines you would for any emergency. .

Answer 190

Fainting is a brief period of unresponsiveness that happens when there is not enough blood flowing to the brain. If a person suddenly becomes unresponsive and then “comes to” after about a minute, he or she may have simply fainted.

Answer 191

A person who has fainted will most likely be alert soon after waking up. A person who has had a seizure is more likely to be confused and drowsy.

Answer 192

Pregnancy Pain Heat Dehydration Decreased blood sugar Standing in one position for too long without moving Traumatic information

Answer 193

The following tips help prevent fainting: Stay hydrated, especially on hot days. Eat at regular intervals to maintain a consistent blood sugar level. Get up slowly from sitting or lying down.

Answer 194

Call EMS and get an AED if The person is unresponsive for more than a few minutes. The person is pregnant. The person’s medical history is unknown. You suspect that the person fainted as a result of a serious injury or illness. Place the person in the recovery position. Encourage the person to follow up with his or her healthcare provider.

Answer 195

Diabetes is a chronic condition that results from the body’s inability to process glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. An organ called the pancreas secretes insulin. In a person who has diabetes, either the pancreas fails to make enough insulin or the body’s cells are unable to respond to insulin. Either situation causes sugar levels in the bloodstream to increase. A diabetic emergency happens when blood sugar levels fluctuate outside the normal range. The person can have either too much or not enough sugar in the bloodstream.

Answer 196

Changes in the level of responsiveness Changes in behavior Rapid breathing Cool, pale, sweaty skin Appearance of intoxication Seizures

Answer 197

Call EMS if You are unable to give the person sugar They are not fully awake Had a seizure The person’s condition does not improve within 10 minutes of having sugar Care If the person is able to follow simple commands, answer questions, and swallow safely, have the person eat or drink something that contains sugar If the person’s condition does not improve within 10 minutes, call EMS If the person’s condition improves, recommend that they eat a complete mea

Answer 198

Fevers Infections Head injuries Heat stroke Poisons (including drugs) Drug or alcohol withdrawal Diabetic emergencies Audio-visual stimulation (e.g., flashing lights)

Answer 199

Involuntary muscle movements Drool or foaming at the mouth Uncontrolled repetitive motions An altered level of responsiveness

Answer 200

Call EMS You don’t know the person’s medical history The seizure lasts more than a few minutes The person has several seizures in a row The person is unresponsive for an extended period Seizure disorders and when to call EMS: some people have multiple seizures during a day and will likely have a treatment plan It will outline when a seizure isn’t normal and when EMS should be called. Follow plan if you are familiar and comfortable, if not call EMS

Answer 201

Protect person from injury by: Moving objects that could cause injury Protecting the persons head with a soft object Do not try to hold the person down Once the seizure is over, roll the person into the recovery position. The person may be drowsy and disoriented for up to 20 minutes

Answer 202

Mental Health First Aid is the initial help provided to a person in a mental health crisis. It includes recognizing the crisis and giving care until appropriate professional follow-up is received or the crisis is resolved

Answer 203

A person with a mental health condition may experience one, many, or none of the following: Inability to think clearly, concentrate, or focus on a task Hallucinations or delusions (e.g., hearing voices) Depression or sudden mood swings Obvious lack of motivation

Answer 204

Call EMS immediately if you suspect that the person poses a risk to you, others, or themself, or if you suspect that the person has attempted suicide. Contact support systems for the person, if possible Provide reassurance, comfort, and support Reduce distractions and encourage to sit down Keep the person as calm as possible Listen empathetically Acknowledge the person’s feelings and emotions without judgment If the person is delusional, do not dismiss their beliefs Speak quietly and firmly Offer self-help strategies such as breathing exercises

Answer 205

In a mental health crisis, the most immediate threat to the person is suicide. Listen to what the person is saying. You should suspect the risk of suicide if the person is expressing: Negative (especially suicidal) thoughts and comments about him- or herself. The intent to die, especially if he or she has a plan. Final wishes to someone close by Responding to suicide or a suicide attempt can be traumatic. Talk to a professional if you experience lingering feelings of guilt or distress.

Answer 206

Childbirth is a natural process, and the woman’s body knows what to do. Your role will be to help the process while you wait for EMS personnel to arrive. When providing care for a woman who is in labor, it is important to consider comfort, safety, and privacy. The more comfortable the mother is, both physically and emotionally, the easier childbirth will be for her. Create a clean, private space, and keep bystanders away. Do whatever you can to comfort and reassure the mother.

Answer 207

Contractions that are 2 minutes apart or less. The mother says that the baby is coming. The mother feels the urge to push. The mother feels as though she needs to have a bowel movement. The baby is crowning

Answer 208

Call EMS Create a birthing area by placing clean blankets and/or towels under the mother As the baby is being birthed, support the head Wipe any fluid or mucus away from the baby’s mouth and nose Check the baby’s ABCs. actively dry the baby with a clean cloth to crying and breathing Place the baby directly onto the mothers chest and cover the baby with a blanket or towel Let the placenta and cord onto a clean towel Do not clamp, tie or cut the cord Record the time of birth If the bother has any bleeding tears, apply gentle pressure to them

Answer 209

The human body's core temperature (the temperature of the heart, lungs and brain) is normally around 37 C. To avoid heat and cold related illnesses, this ideal core temperature is maintained by the hypothalamus through a process called thermoregulation

Answer 210

The hypothalamus will trigger thermoregulation to cause ‘heat loss’ responses such as Increasing the skin’s blood flow Sweating (to cool the body through evaporation)

Answer 211

The hypothalamus will trigger thermoregulation to cause ‘heat gain’ responses such as Decreasing the skin’s blood flow Converting food into energy Shivering (which produces heat by contracting and relaxing muscles)

Answer 212

The direct transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves Can warm and cool the body

Answer 213

The cooling that occurs when heat is used to change a liquid to vapour Can only cool the body

Answer 214

The transfer of heat that occurs when air or liquid moves across the skin Can warm and cool the body

Answer 215

The transfer of heat through direct contact with a solid or liquid Can warm and cool the body

Answer 216

The cooling that occurs when heat is used to change a liquid into a vapour Can only cool the body

Answer 217

Heat waves, especially if there hasn’t been one in recent years High humidity (above 75%) which stops sweat from evaporating as effectively

Answer 218

Heat-related illnesses—such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke—occur when the body’s core temperature rises above the normal range.

Answer 219

Age: babies, children and the elderly don’t easily adjust to changes in temperature Body size and mass: larger bodies with more fat tissue retain heat and warm up more quickly Sports equipment or protective clothing that prevent loss of heat and moisture (e.g. football padding, firefighter turnout gear, or chemical/biological protective suits) Heart disease or certain skin, hormone, or nervous system diseases Burns Poor physical fitness

Answer 220

Working or exercising without taking enough breaks to allow the body to cool down Not drinking enough fluids to replace the water lost by sweating (dehydration) Consuming dehydrating beverages or other substances (e.g. drinking too much coffee, or taking certain medications) in hot weather Taking stimulants such as cocaine or amphetamines Salt depletion Fatigue

Answer 221

One of the most important actions a person can take to prevent heat-related illnesses is to drink plenty of fluids. On average, you should drink eight 250 mL (8 oz.) glasses of fluid a day. The more you exert yourself, the more hydration your body will need, and so the more fluids you should drink. If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Develop the habit of drinking fluids regularly rather than waiting for the warning signs of dehydration to appear.

Answer 222

Skin: moist and warm Physical: muscle contractions

Answer 223

Skin: moist and warm Physical: weakness, exhaussion Fainting and vomiting(Call EMS) Mental: anxiety Symptoms: headache Nausea, dizziness (Call EMS)

Answer 224

Call EMS Dry hot skin seizures and coma altered behavioural, irritable, agressive, bizzare severe headache rapid and weak pulse shallow and rapid breathing

Answer 225

Remove from heat loosen tight clothes, and padding Gentle streching provide cool drink

Answer 226

remove from heat loosen tight clothing and padding do not dry skin pour cool water from torso fan skin provide drink

Answer 227

remove from heat loosen tight clothes don't dry skin immerse in cool water immerse forearms in cool water pour water on torse fan skin cool drink

Answer 228

Cold-related illnesses are any conditions that are caused by exposure to colder temperatures. They range in severity from frostbite (superficial frostbite or deep frostbite) to life-threatening hypothermia.

Answer 229

Both: Insufficent insulation Moisture on skin exposure to cold and windy conditions Frost bite: clothing Hypothermia Cold water immersion Dehydration taking medication to eliminate water from the body

Answer 230

Skin may appear shiny and rosy (sometimes called frost nip). This is a warning that frost bite is imminent If you see these signs, encourage them to move to a warmer environment to protect with layers of clothing

Answer 231

Hardened skin Skin that looks parker than the area around it Pain or stinging in the area, followed by numbness

Answer 232

Waxy skin that is colder than the area around it Skin and underlying tissue that is hard and solid to the touch Skin that is white, blue, black or mottled Complete loss of feeling

Answer 233

Remove jewelry or other items that may restrict blood flow to the affected area Thaw the area only if you are sure it will not freeze again Warn the affected area using warm (not hot) water or body heat for 20 to 30 minutes Protect warmed skin with loose, dry dressings. Place gauze between the fingers or toes if they are affected. Leave any blisters in tact If possible elevate any thawed extremities above the level of the heart Rehydrate the person by providing plenty of fluids Encourage the person to seek medical attention

Answer 234

Hypothermia has different levels of severity. You may use warm water bottles, heating pads, or an electric blanket to warm the person’s trunk (i.e., the armpits, chest, and upper back). Body heat from yourself or a bystander can also work in an emergency. Never put the person in a warm bath or shower or try to warm the person with a fire, a stove, or hot rocks. Cold-water immersion can cause hypothermia in a person. If a person has been rescued from cold water, he or she should be treated immediately for hypothermia.

Answer 235

A person’s skin (especially the tongue and lips) can freeze to cold metal objects. This is especially a risk when skin is wet or moist. While this is a concern mainly in cold weather, skin can also freeze to metal objects in other situations (e.g., to the inside of a freezer).

Answer 236

Call EMS/911 if you cannot safely remove the body part from the cold object Do not pull or tug the frozen body part. Pour warm (not hot) water on the surface of the object or the skin that is stuck to the object. As the skin begins to come free, gently help release the person from the metal object. Treat any torn skin as an open wound.

Answer 237

A poison is a substance that is harmful if it is inhaled, swallowed (ingested), absorbed, or injected. Practically anything can be a poison if it is not meant to be taken into the body. Even some substances that are meant to be taken into the body, such as medications, can be poisonous if they are taken by the wrong person, or if the person takes too much. Combining certain substances can also result in poisoning. Poisons can be immediately life-threatening if they affect breathing,

Answer 238

Very young children explore their world by touching and tasting things around them, so even substances that don’t look or smell attractive are poisoning hazards among this age group. Older adults who have medical condition that cause (such as dementia) or who have impaired vision are also at a higher risk of intention poisoning

Answer 239

Keep all medication, household cleaning products, poisonous plants, and other toxic substance well out of the reach of children Never call medicine candy to persuade a child Teach children to check with an adult before eating an unknown substance Keep potentially poisonous products in their original containers with their original labels Carefully dispose of expired medication through your local hazardous waste process Be aware that many cleaning products and aerosol sprays have toxic fumes. Use these products in a well-ventilated area Wear proper protective clothing (such as gloves and goggles) any time you are working with or around a poisonous substance Run gas and other combustion engines only in open- well ventilated areas Learn about poisonous plants in your area before going into a new environment

Answer 240

Clearly label all toxic substances and never use a product that is not clearly identified Have a detailed material safety data sheet available for every hazardous substance in the workplace Ensure that workers who might be exposed to hazardous materials receive the proper training in safety measures and emergency procedures Check all warning labels, tags, and posters in the workplace and follow their instructions carefully Read labels and the MSDS to find out the risk of each hazardous material, the safety measures that must be taken to prevent poisoning, and first aid required if poisoning occurs

Answer 241

The signs and symptoms of poisoning vary, depending on the person, the type of poison, and the way that the poison entered the body: It may not be obvious that the person has been poisoned. Checking the scene and the person might give clues that point to poisoning. For example, you may note an open container, an unusual smell, burns around the person’s mouth, a strange odour on the person’s breath, or other people in the area who are also affected.

Answer 242

The type of poison The quantity taken When it was taken Always use caution when you encounter a case of poisoning to be sure that you do not contaminate yourself.

Answer 243

If a person has been poisoned, the most important thing you can do is to call for help. This may be either EMS/9-1-1 or the local Poison Control Centre. If the person has an altered level of responsiveness or has difficulty breathing, call EMS/9-1-1 and get an AED immediately. If the person’s ABCs are normal and he or she is responsive and alert, call your local Poison Control Centre. If the poison is found nearby, give the information from the label to the Poison Control Centre or EMS/9-1-1 dispatcher.

Answer 244

An open container of poison nearby Burns around the mouth Increased production saliva and/or saliva that is an abnormal color Abdominal cramps, vomiting, and/or diarrhea A burning sensation in the mouth, throat or stomach

Answer 245

Check the packaging of the poison Induce vomiting only if told to do so by the EMS dispatcher or poison control If the person needs to go to the hospital bring a sample of the poison (or its original container)

Answer 246

Breathing difficulties Irritated eyes, nose or throat Bluish around the mouth An unusual smell in the air

Answer 247

Move the person into fresh air, but do not enter a hazardous atmosphere yourself in order to do so

Answer 248

Rash or hives Burning or itching skin Blisters Burns

Answer 249

If the poison is a dry powder, brush it off the persons skin Remove any clothing covered in the poison Flush the skin with running water for at least 15 minutes. Make sure the water flushes away from unaffected areas of the body

Answer 250

One or more puncture wounds Problem breathing Redness and swelling at the entry point A needle found nearby

Answer 251

Wash the puncture site with clean running water Keep the person still

Answer 252

Carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas that is produced when fuel is burned (e.g., in an engine, fireplace, or furnace). With proper ventilation, the gas is carried harmlessly away, but burning fuel in an enclosed space can create lethal levels of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide binds to the red blood cells 200 times better than oxygen. As carbon monoxide attaches to red blood cells, it keeps oxygen from properly binding. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be very similar to those of the flu.

Answer 253

Headache Dizziness or light-headedness Confusion or altered levels of responsiveness Weakness or fatigue Muscle cramps Nausea and vomiting Chest pain Treat for inhaled poisioning

Answer 254

Poison ivy, poison sumac, and poison oak, sometimes called “rash-causing plants” produce oil that causes skin irritation in most people. The signs, symptoms, and care are the same for all three.

Answer 255

Itchy skin Reddening of the skin Bumps or blisters What to do: care Encourage the person to apply a cream or ointment designed to reduce itching and blistering (e.g., calamine). Suggest that the person take an oral antihistamine to help relieve itching. If the rash is severe or on a sensitive part of the body (such as the face or groin), the person should see a healthcare provider.

Answer 256

The sap of giant hogweed and wild parsnip plants is harmless on the skin at first, but causes it to react violently when it is exposed to the sun’s UV radiation.

Answer 257

What to Look For: The sap of these plants causes the following signs and symptoms when the skin is exposed to sunlight: Swelling and reddening of the skin Painful blistering Purplish scarring

Answer 258

Call EMS/9-1-1 if the person is having trouble breathing or if the sap is on the person’s eyes, face, or groin. Protect the area from sunlight. If sap gets into the eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes or until EMS personnel arrive. Encourage the person to seek medical attention

Answer 259

Many types of drugs can have harmful effects on the body, but you don’t need to know which specific one the person has taken before you can give first aid. Provide the same care you would give for any other type of poison, based on the method the person used to take the drug (e.g., swallowed or injected). Look for clues about what drug was taken and give this information to EMS personnel when they arrive. Certain drugs may make a person feel threatened if bystanders, First Aiders, or EMS personnel try to help. If a person becomes aggressive, call EMS/9-1-1 (if you haven’t already) and do not put yourself at risk.

Answer 260

Animal bites can cause injuries (especially puncture wounds), but they can also introduce foreign substances into the body through the animal’s saliva. Call your local animal control department if the animal is wild or a stray. Try to get the person safely away from the animal. Do not try to capture the animal. Treat any puncture wounds. Seek medical attention if the animal is stray or unknown to you, or if you suspect it might have rabies. Watch for signs and symptoms of infection.

Answer 261

Insect stings are usually just painful, but some have severe allergies. Monitor anyone who has been stung by an insect, especially if it is the first time he or she has been stung Some insects, such as bees, leave their stinger embedded in the person’s. Others such as wasps can sting multiple times, but leave no stinger behind

Answer 262

To reduce the risk of insect sting Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and closed toe shoes Don’t wear perfume, cologne or other products with strong scents Remove or cover items that will attract insects, such as garbage or food

Answer 263

Call EMS/911 and get an AED if there are any signs of severe allergic region If the stinger is still embedded. Scrape it away from the skin Wrap a cold pack with thin towel and place it on the affected area Continue to watch for signs of anaphylaxis

Answer 264

Ticks are found in wooden, bushy areas, in tall grass, and in leaf litter. They attach themselves to warm blooded animals, including people Ticks can spread pathogens from their mouths into a person’s body that can cause serious illnesses, such as Lyme disease. Promptly remove any ticks that you find before they bite and become swollen with blood. Ticks are most active from April to September

Answer 265

Avoid wooden areas and areas with high grass and leaf litter Walk in the center of hiking trails Limit the amount of exposed skin. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Tuck your shirt into your pants and your pant legs into your socks or boots Use insect repellants with 10 to 30% DEET on skin and clothing Check gear and pets for ticks when coming in from outside Put outdoor clothing in a dryer on high heat for 1 hour to kill any ticks that might be attached

Answer 266

If the tick hasn’t started to bite, brush it off the skin If they have begun to bite: Use tweezers to grasp the tick by the head as close to the person’s skin as possible Pull upward without twisting until the tick releases its hold. If you cannot remove the tick or its mouthparts stay in the skin, the person should seek medical attention Once the tick is removed, wash with area with clean water If the area becomes infected, or the person develops a fever or flash, they should seek medical attention

Answer 267

Save any ticks you remove from skin Submit the tick to the public health lab for testing or bring it with you to an appointment? Submitting ticks for testing will help public health officials track how ticks spread in Canada and what the risks are of human exposure To save a tick, place it in a sealable plastic bag or a pill bottle Record the location and date of the bite Live ticks can be stored for up to 10 days in the refrigerator If the tick is dead, place it in the freezer instead

Answer 268

In the wild, snakes like to occupy rock outcrops, swamps, undergrowth, and abandoned human structures. When disturbed, some snakes can inject venom as they bite Prairie rattlesnake Copperhead snake, massasauga snake

Answer 269

Don’t aggravate a snake Wear proper footwear and watch where you put your feet when hiking If you hear a rattlesnake, remain still until the snake is located, then back away slowly: avoid stomping or jumping as this may startle the snake A snake’s striking range is about ⅔ of its length forward and one third upward (in water, snakes have a shorter striking range). If you are within striking distance, do not yell, as snakes can detect vibrations, instead back slowly out of range

Answer 270

If you know or suspect that the bite was caused by venomous snake, call EMS/911 Emsure that the snake is no longer present. If you see the snake, describe it to the EMS personnel when they arrive Keep the person still and ensure the bitten area is level within the heart If the bite is on a limb, remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the limn Wash the wound with water and cover it with a clean, dry dressing

Answer 271

Raised, round, red mark Cramping pain in the thighs, shoulders, back and abdominal muscles Excessive sweating Weakness

Answer 272

A slight stinging sensation A blood filled blister that appears A bulls eye pattern around the bite Symptoms of a severe reaction occur within 72 hours of the bite and include nausea, vomiting, and joint pain

Answer 273

To care for a spider bite from a black widow or brown recluse spider: Have the person rest quietly and keep the bite elevated. Apply a cold pack wrapped in a thin, dry towel. To care for a bite from a non-venomous spider: Wash the area with water. Suggest that the person apply an antibiotic ointment. Cover the wound with an adhesive bandage. Apply a cold pack wrapped in a thin, dry towel to help reduce pain and swelling

Answer 274

Many forms of marine life (e.g. jellyfish, stingrays, sea urchins, stinging coral, and spiny fish) cause stinging wounds. In Canada, strings from marine life are usually from jellyfish, through stingrays can also cause injury. Stings from marine life can have effects that range from merely painful to potentially life-threatening Sting ray Sea urchin Jellyfish

Answer 275

Pain Rash or redness Swelling Puncture wounds or lacerations

Answer 276

Call EMS and get an AED if the person is having airway or breathing problem, the person was stung on the face or neck, or you do not know what caused the sting Flush the injured area with vinegar for at least 30 seconds. If vinegar is not available, mix baking soda and water into a paste and leave it on the area for 20 While wearing gloves or using a towel, carefully remove any pieces of the animal Immerse the affected area in water as hot as the person can tolerate for at least 20 minutes or until the pain is relieved. Hot or cold packs can also be used Encourage the person to seek medical attention and watch for signs of infec

Answer 277

The person’s airway is at risk (e.g., the person vomits while on his or her back) The scene becomes unsafe There is no organized EMS response in the region (i.e., the response time will be more than 45 minutes)