MVRUS - First Aid and Post Accident procedure
It is useful to have some basic First Aid skills. Try to take one of the many short First Aid courses run by organisations . In an accident situation this knowledge can be a lifesaver. It is important that you cover the basics. The method suggested below covers, very briefly, some of the main areas.
A - awareness
When arriving at the scene of any accident it is important to stop and assess the situation. Do not rush in. Take stock of the situation. Your own safety has top priority. Sometimes it is better to do nothing other than notify the emergency services. On other occasions you may help by warning others of the situation e.g. warning oncoming traffic of an accident. Yet again, you may decide that it is best to administer basic first aid.B - breathing
If possible do not move injured people, treat them where they lie. If you must move people be extremely careful. Many neck ad spine injuries are made worse by moving the casualty. Minor blood loss can be ignored but major blood loss needs stopping immediately. If you come across a casualty who appears to be still and lifeless, breathing is a priority. Check their airway to see if there are any obstructions, if so remove the obstruction. Put your ear close to their mouth and check their breathing. Providing their airway is clear you may give mouth to mouth resuscitation.C - circulation
When you give mouth to mouth resuscitation you force air (oxygen) into a person's lungs. This has to be circulated around the body, particulary to the major organs. You do this by compressing the chest, thereby squeezing blood out of the heart and around the body.D - deformity
This refers to broken bones. In many instances it is sufficient to restrain or support the injured limb with what material you find available.Make the casualty as comfortable as you can.E - emotional care
Here you try to reassure the casualty. This is not to be underrated as a means of care. Many accident victims are in shock and any care that lowers tension is worthwhile. Tell them your name before you touch them and, even though they may appear unconscious, ask their name. Before you do anything to them tell them what you intend to do. This might appear silly and superfluous but it is widely recognised that this approach is beneficial. Stay with them if possible until help arrives.It is important to monitor the casualty. Check whether there is improvement or deterioration. Check breathing, pulse, colour of casualty. Note these and be ready to give all details when required.
The Recovery Position
In a large number of incidents (some 40%) unconscious casualties have died due to choking on liquids that are present in their mouth e.g. vomit,blood or saliva. Also the tongue may slip back and block the throat thereby cutting off their air supply. It is essential that, after all checks are carried out, the casualty is put into the recovery position.
The casualty is placed on their side. The head, neck and back are kept in a straight line with the arm and leg providing support to maintain this position. The airway is opened by tilting back the head and pulling the chin open.
Ask your teacher to demonstrate the recovery position in the classroom.
A little practice on your part may mean the difference between life or death for an unconscious casualty involved in an accident.( Always remember the casualty could be YOU)