The main objectives and goals of first aid training

First aid training

First aid training

Did you know that the earlier CPR is performed, the greater the chances of survival? Many fatalities can be prevented with the help of first aid, including serious injuries, excessive bleeding, and even death.

First aid training is a valuable, life-saving course. Its main objective is not to treat people but to provide immediate attention to a sick or injured person at the scene. First aid helps prevent the situation from getting worse while waiting for full medical care.

The five main aims of first aid are to:

  • Preserve life
  • Prevent the escalation of illness or injury
  • Promote recovery
  • Provide pain relief
  • Protect the unconscious

First aid course First aid course

Let’s take a closer look at these main points.

1. Preservation of life

Providing CPR or attending to a choking person are two examples of life preservation in a first aid course. Maintaining air circulation in the body and clearing blocked airways while waiting for medics prevents other severe conditions, like brain damage and even a heart attack, which can happen within minutes.

2. Prevention of illness or injury from escalating

As part of first aid training, you’ll learn how to contain wounds and attend to injuries to prevent further spread or damage. For example, if the patient is bleeding profusely, the first aider’s goal is to do their best to stop the bleeding until professional medical care arrives.

3. Promoting recovery

Promotion of recovery includes using a first aid kit to help the person in need. This can involve washing, disinfecting, and bandaging a wound. In some cases, an antibiotic ointment can be used to promote healing.

4. Relieving pain

Offering pain relief should only be done if it doesn’t present a risk to the patient. If the person is bleeding, some pain relief medication is not advisable. It’s better to ask a medical expert first before offering any sort of medication.

5. Protect the unconscious

Protecting an unconscious person includes safely removing them from a dangerous environment like a fire or busy road to safer conditions nearby. In a first aid course, participants learn how to position an unconscious person so that breathing airways aren’t obstructed. The goal of protecting an unconscious person is to ensure their safety before medical help arrives.

Final thoughts

Along with the above five objectives, first aid also provides reassurance to the patient and confidence in the first aider to respond appropriately. It’s a necessary and critical stage for preventing serious harm and is an indispensable skill to have.

 

Read our blog on: The Importance of CPR: 5 Objectives of First Aid Training