Every day people are exposed to risk factors that increase their likelihood of suffering injuries. As such, it is essential for all individuals to have a basic knowledge of first aid so that they can respond appropriately should they sustain an injury. Whether from a fall, sports-related injury or other incident, knowing how to provide first aid is an essential skill that can save a life in urgent circumstances. There are many different types of injuries that might occur in any given situation, but certain injuries are much more common than others. Certain types of injuries are also more serious than others, meaning that a basic knowledge of how to deal with them quickly will make all the difference if the victim isn't getting medical attention right away. This article introduces some of the most common types of injuries that can happen to someone who is not wearing protective gear and not under the care of a doctor or other trained medical professional. The list below is far from exhaustive, but serves as a useful guide to getting the help you need if you find yourself in need of first aid. It’s important to remember that the first aid techniques discussed below are meant as general guidelines only. No two individuals will be in the same state of injury, and each individual’s reaction to injury and ability to respond will vary. These first aid techniques are meant to be used as a guide to get you to help as quickly as possible. If you are injured, you should always seek medical attention as soon as possible after the incident occurs.

Fractures

A fracture is a break in a bone. Fractures are usually caused by sudden, extreme force, such as a fall from a significant height or being hit by a car. Some fractures can be difficult to see, especially if the skin around the break is swollen or discolored. It is critically important to get help for a person with a broken bone, because the longer the break goes untreated, the greater the risk of permanent injury.

Concussion and Strain to the Brain

A head injury that does not result in a fracture can often be fatal if left untreated. A concussion is a mild brain injury. Symptoms of a concussion usually include headaches, confusion, lethargy, and drowsiness. A brain strain is also a type of head injury, but it is much less serious. Symptoms of a brain strain include headaches and dizziness, but the injury is usually minor and will not have long-lasting effects. A person suffering from a concussion or brain strain should be taken to a doctor as soon as possible for treatment. If the injury is severe enough, the person may need to be admitted to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Wounds and Lacerations

A wound is any break in the skin that results in bleeding. Lacerations are wounds that involve deeper damage to the skin, such as a cut, slash, or a tear in the skin. Lacerations can usually be treated with simple first aid techniques such as applying pressure, covering the wound, and keeping an eye on it for signs of infection.

Bleeding Wounds

Bleeding wounds can be treated with tourniquets, gauze, and pressure bandages. A tourniquet is a device that is wrapped around a person's arm or leg to stop the flow of blood from a large wound. Gauze and pressure bandages are used to stem the flow of blood from minor wounds to prevent the injury from getting worse. It is important to note that a tourniquet should only be used on a person who has lost a significant amount of blood. If you are uncertain whether or not a wound requires treatment with a tourniquet, it is best to seek medical attention.

Broken Bones

If a broken bone appears to be very serious, it is best to get the person to a doctor as soon as possible, but first aid techniques can be used to help with less serious injuries. An X-ray can be used to confirm a broken bone. Before setting a broken bone, the injury should be splinted. A splint is a device that holds the broken bone in the position that is most natural and reduces the risk of further injury. The splint can be made from cloth or wood, and can be tied to the person’s body with rope or tape.

Conclusion

Injuries are common in every day life and can occur anywhere. Having a basic understanding of first aid will save a life when you or someone you know is injured. Knowing how to provide first aid can help you to treat a victim until medical help can be reached.When you're ready for first aid training, there are many options available. Online courses, in-person courses, and webinars are all good options for beginning students and those who want to brush up on their first aid skills.