Knowledge of basic first aid is not only the responsibility of a doctor. First aid is something that applies to everyday life, where every person should be capable of some basic remedies to either help them or someone else who is suffering from a minor injury. First aid can be applied until medical workers appear on site for bigger issues, although even small ailments such as scrapes, bruises, cuts and other such markings can be cared for by the individual or by a guardian or friend. Below, David Soria MD shares some of the most basic functions of administering proper first aid.
Bandages
When there is a skin laceration, bandages are almost always necessary if not to stop blood flow then to prevent possible infections. In instances where there is bleeding, you can bandage the wound and have the victim apply pressure until the bleeding stops. In more serious cases, the victim may need help stopping the bleeding, which would involve heavier sources of bandaging such as cloth as well as protective gloves for the person helping give the first aid.
Antiseptic
Antiseptics can be applied to just about any cut or scrape, as well as bug bite, rash and other such skin lacerations or infections. Antiseptics are antimicrobial substances that are often a safe means of preventing infection for victims of broken or irritated skin. David Soria MD says most antiseptic creams can be bought over the counter at grocery or drug stores, and they usually carry a long shelf-life for easy storing.
Bandages
When there is a skin laceration, bandages are almost always necessary if not to stop blood flow then to prevent possible infections. In instances where there is bleeding, you can bandage the wound and have the victim apply pressure until the bleeding stops. In more serious cases, the victim may need help stopping the bleeding, which would involve heavier sources of bandaging such as cloth as well as protective gloves for the person helping give the first aid.
Antiseptic
Antiseptics can be applied to just about any cut or scrape, as well as bug bite, rash and other such skin lacerations or infections. Antiseptics are antimicrobial substances that are often a safe means of preventing infection for victims of broken or irritated skin. David Soria MD says most antiseptic creams can be bought over the counter at grocery or drug stores, and they usually carry a long shelf-life for easy storing.