OptimumFirstAid

One Year On....

2010-11-19T04:48:00.000-08:00

It's been just over a year (1st October 2009) since the Health & Safety Executive updated guidance for employer on First Aid requirements. Even now, I'm being asked lots of questions about these requirements. Therefore I've taken the time to write up the guidance and can provide you with a copy if you wish...just ask.

In brief, all Employers are LEGALLY required to carry out a First Aid Needs Assessment in line with the new Guidance. It indicates that the HSE has moved away from the old practice of basing first aid needs solely on head count. Employers that use this table without reading and acting upton the guidance fully may be misled, or worse still, assume that their assessment should be based primarily on head count.

The HSE now recommend annual refresher training....In addition Employers may have to decide how many first aiders they require but also which type of first aider is to be provided.

There is now a choice between First Aid at Work (FAW) qualification and a new, Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) qualification. And the type of course/qualification depends on the risks in your workplace. Your accident records should help you decide what is the most appropriate training to provide.

For more information go to www.optimum-training.com

First Aid Course in Manchester

2010-11-19T04:16:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday and Wednesday 23rd & 24th November 2010, we'll be hosting a Paediatric First Aid at Work course in Manchester City Centre. The course covers all aspects of First Aid in both a commercial and Child Care setting. There are still some places available so please contact us if you wish to renew your certificate.
To book your place; call 0800 594 2134.

TV Medical Drama's Criticised in Results of New Research

2010-02-19T07:22:00.000-08:00

During almost every First Aid course that I teach I hear someone say "I saw this on TV, so it must be true". Many really people believe that what they see on TV is real, even when what they see is on a soap opera! I've always responded by explaining that it's not real life and sometimes they (the tv producers/researchers) get it wrong. Now I have the evidence that proves it.

Researchers and authors of a study of the most popular medical TV dramas, Andrew Moeller and R. Mark Sadler, MD, from Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Canada will be presenting their findings at the American Academy of Neurology's 62nd Annual Meeting in Toronto, this April.

Andrew Moeller says, "Television dramas are a potentially powerful method of educating the public about first aid and seizures. Our results, showing that television shows inaccurately showed seizure management half the time, are a call to action.... the television industry to adhere to guidelines for first aid management of seizures."

The study centred around all episodes of the highest-rated US medical dramas: "Grey's Anatomy," "House, M.D.," and "Private Practice" and the last five seasons of "ER". Results show that in the 327 episodes, 59 seizures occurred. Fifty-one seizures took place in a hospital. Almost all first aid was carried out by "doctors" or "nurses".
The latest guidelines on seizure management were used to determine whether the seizure was handled appropriately.
The study highlights inappropriate practices in 25 cases, nearly 46 percent of the time. These bad practices include putting something in the person's mouth; holding the person down; trying to stop involuntary movements, occurred .
First aid management was shown appropriately in 17 seizures, or about 29 percent of the time. Appropriateness of first aid could not be determined in 15 incidents of seizures, or 25 percent.

So, overall, TV researchers need to focus on getting their information right.

So what should you do with someone who is having an epileptic seizure. Here's a quick guide:

1. Protect the casualty from danger, by removing any objects that might harm them. Protect their head by gently placing a cushion underneath it.
2. Do not restrain them in any way, simply allow the seizure to run its course.
3. When the seizure has stopped, carry out a full check of the Airway, Breathing and identify any other injuries.

Phone for medical aid only:

a. If, as a result of a fall, the casualty has sustained other injuries that require medical attention .
b. If the casualty has a second seizure (this is unusual)
c. If the casualty has never had a seizure before.

Never try to hold the casualty down, like you see on TV. And NEVER put anything in their mouth as they could choke on this.

Roadside Tragedy: Father Gives First Aid to His Own Son

2009-07-06T00:28:00.000-07:00

When learning First Aid it is important to realize that the new skills you learn are most likely to be used on a member of your own family. Reported in the Daily Telegraph this week, it became a tragic reality for the Marshall family.

If you didn’t read the article, here is a brief summary: 53 year old Guy Marshall had stopped at a road side motorcycle crash only to discover the dying casualty was his own teenage son, Thomas.

Mr Marshall, an Optometrist, had no idea that his 18 year old, A-Level student son had been involved in the collision when he stopped to help.

"When I arrived people had stopped but no one was tending to him," he is reported as saying. "I jumped out of my car to see if I could help and then realized it was my son.

"I supposed I instantly switched into lay responder mode but then was still aware it was my boy. Not an hour goes by that I don't think of being on that road with him."

According to the report, Thomas had a pulse and was still moving when Mr Marshall arrived on scene but Thomas was pronounced dead when paramedics arrived at the scene.

Mr Marshall is a trained First Aider able to deal with emergencies and his mother, Wendy is a practice Nurse. They have two older children Alex (22) and Sophie (19). Our condolences go out to the whole family.

This story has me in no doubt just how important our First Aid skills really are.

Perhaps you have been on a First Aid course because your employer asked you to attend. Perhaps you’re not convinced it’s a skill you will ever get to use. Perhaps you thought it was something you had to learn “just in case” it is needed in your workplace. Whatever your thinking, learning first aid is vital for everyone. It is a skill that once learned will stay with you for life. It’s a skill that you will be able to apply anywhere and everywhere.

We often tell our course participants that the skills they learn during the course are skills they are more likely to use with their own family members.

Mr Marshall’s son had a much better chance of survival with his presence than he would ever have had without him – after all you only have to read what Mr Marshall said “no one was tending to him (Thomas)” to realize how important immediate action really is in such a situation.

Would you want to be one of those bystanders, unwilling or unable to do anything? I know I wouldn’t. If it’s time to renew your certification or update your skills, do yourself a favor and book on the course right now while it is still fresh in your mind.

Would You Know How to Treat Cardiac Arrest? USA promotes National CPR/AED Awareness Week - 1-7 June 09

2009-05-31T17:32:00.000-07:00

As the USA gears up for National CPR/AED Awareness Week from today 1st June through to 7th June 2009... a week dedicated by the US Congress to raising awareness... it made me wonder just how many of us really know what to do when faced with a family member/friend/colleague who has a Cardiac Arrest in front of us?
A Cardiac Arrest occurs when the heart stops beating. More and more businesses, schools and shopping centres have Automated External Defibrillators (AED's) on site, as research clearly shows that the prompt application of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR... that thing you do when you press on someone's chest and then breath into their mouth!) and an AED increase a person's chance of survival.

When a person goes into cardiac arrest, in most cases, the heart will fibrillate (this means it will shake; I describe it as "like a jelly, wobbling on a plate"). The only way to stop fibrillation of the heart is with a de-fibrillator (AED for short) An AED provides a carefully controlled, electrical impulse (shock) to the heart to get it to start working again. The prompt application of an AED with CPR can improve survival rates - that's why it is so vital that you, as a First Aider, call an ambulance as soon as you realise what is wrong with the person.

So let's work alongside our US cousins across the Big Pond, and update our knowledge on the treatment for someone in Cardiac Arrest. Ask your family members if they know...and if they don't know what to do, help educate them by explaining the importance of help and encouraging them to do a First Aid training course... your life might depend on it.

Until our next encounter... Keep happy, healthy and safe.

Enjoy Bonfire Night, without the risks!

2008-11-05T00:58:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again folks!

This is one of my favourite nights of the year - Full of fun and excitement, with a large bonfire to keep you warm and roasted chestnuts to keep you satisfied...and, of course, fireworks in amazing technicolour to keep you entertained. It should be a rewarding evening, full of cheer as it leads us into the Christmas period.

The only downside is... that this is the time of year when injuries increase.
With the majority of Bonfire Night related injuries happening at family or private parties (44.6%) I encourage people not only to take preventative measures but to learn a few basic first aid techniques with the publishing of our November 5th Essential First Aid Sheet.

Most people fail to act appropriately in burn cases - and are not aware of devastating effects of shock, resulting in severe implications for the casualty.

I've been quoted by the media as saying “If correct first aid is carried out immediately the short and long term effects of serious injuries can be greatly reduced,” and it is a fact.

In recent years nearly a third of injuries have been to the eyes. A burn to the eye is extremely serious and can have blinding results. Like most serious incidents, it is critical to treat the eye in an appropriate manner yet few people know how. The eye should be irrigated continuously until the arrival of further medical aid. Don't take any chances with the eyes, it has a lifelong impact.

For a free November 5th Essential First Aid Sheet contact OPTIMUM First Aid Training on 01244 342133 or email office.manager@optimum-training.com.

Wishing you a safe and happy Bonfire Night

Let Children Find Adventure in Playgrounds Not Construction Sites

2008-09-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

With the summer holidays almost over it’s worth reminding the construction industry and parents to be alert and aware of the dangers faced by children playing on or near building sites in order to avoid having to put your First Aid skills into practice.

The nights are getting shorter but there is still lots of time after school for children to enjoy an evening of fun and adventure. However a construction site is not the place to seek such adventure as it too often ends in tragedy.

Understandably some children are drawn to construction sites as exciting places to play, but they are not playgrounds and playing on them can have fatal consequences. My own nephew had the experience of falling off a roof (one that he shouldn’t have been on!) when he was 13 years old. He broke his arm in numerous places from one fall. He has spent the past 5 years having operation after operation and has had his whole arm pinned back together (going through airport security is always a drama now, he tells me!) . At almost 19 years of age, he is still having hospital visits and operations… so it’s no fun after all!

Between 2001/02 and 2004/05, 3 children died and 235 were injured in construction areas*. In the majority of cases a few simple precautions would have prevented the incidents ever happening.

The following practical advice for parents and workers will help keep children safe:
Advice for Parents

Warn children against playing in dangerous areas, including building sites, especially if you live close to a site; Make sure you know where your children are going, and when they will be back; Encourage them to play only in safe areas such as playgrounds;

Advice for Construction Workers:
Never allow children to ride in construction plant machinery as this encourages the philosophy of “it’s a game/it’s play”. Lay heavy objects on the ground or fix them firmly upright so they cannot fall onto any unauthorised personnel and injure them; Look out for children playing around sites and take action if you see them;If you do see children on-site, immediate stop work and ensure they are escorted off site before you begin work again; Secure sites adequately when finishing work for the day, making sure all signs are in place and unobscured;

What to do if there is an injury on a constructon site
Immediately stop work.
For crushing objects, consider the length of time the person has been crushed and also any further injury that may occur by removing the object. As a rule of thumb, if it has pearced the skin or could be affecting vital organs, do not remove a crushing object.
Get help by calling the emergency services asap.

If it is a fall from a height, do not move the casualty, unless they can do so unaided. Treat any injuries as you find them.
Broken bones - keep still and prevent movement.
Major bleeding - apply direct pressure over the injury and then apply a dressing at the earliest possible time. Elevate limbs before commencing treatment.

As a First Aider, you should treat all your casualties for Shock. Anyone who has attended one of the OPTIMUM First Aid courses will know that Shock result in death. Give the casualty plenty of reassurance, using the "Let's Talk First Aid" technique and keep them warm. Make sure they are seen by medical aid.

* Health & Safety Executive

Burn Creams - To Use or Not To Use... That is the Question. Here is the Answer.

2008-07-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

Last week “fake ads” supposedly advertising Bayer’s Burn Creams spread like wildfire across the internet. The ads depicting parents roasting their babies over fire, burning them with blowtorches or putting them on a stick like a marshmallow – I’m guessing the message is supposed to be that the first aid burn cream would protect them – has been rejected by the pharaceutical company Bayers as ads that would never have been approved.

Whether the adverts were real or fake, it made me think about the misconception the public may have regarding the use of burn creams. Burn creams should NOT be used as a First Aid treatment. In fact, they will only make the situation worse – think about it, have you ever put cream onto sunburn and felt like it is frying? If you have, you will know exactly how if feels… very PAINFUL. Burn creams are not FIRST aid, but do have their place for healing of burns. They are what I describe as FOURTH LINE Aid… in other words, they should only be used once the casualty has been seen by a doctor, when the worst is over and the burn has been cooled sufficiently. (First aid is First Line Aid, Ambulance is Second Line Aid, A&E is Third Line Aid and the Doctor is Fourth in line!) In cases where the casualty does not need to see a doctor then burn creams can be applied to help the skin recover. I suggest not less than 24 hours after cooling sufficiently.

The most important thing you can do is cool the burn. It’s even more important than gettiing help, because once the burn is being cooled then less damage will occur. Whilst cooling the burn, help can be called.

Advice on What to Put in Your Home/Holiday First Aid Kit

2008-07-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

When I'm teaching a First Aid course, participants often ask me about their holiday first aid kit.

The big question is “What am I “allowed” to have in a First Aid kit? Can I have such things as:
Headache tablets, medication to prevent diarrhoea, calamine lotion, burn cream, sting creams, syringe etc?”

The simple answer is, yes, you can put whatever you like in a holiday first aid kit. Think about your family’s needs when you are on holiday - you know them better than anyone else, so you can decide what suits your needs.

A holiday first aid kit may contain items that are for use by you or your family; therefore you may wish to add medications in the kit. After all, you can’t sue yourself if it turns out you are allergic to any medication used! :-)

As I tend to enjoy adventurous, off-the-beaten-track trips, so I've used my personal holiday first aid kit as an example:

Sterile Dressings with a bandage attachment (medium & large)
Gauze x 5
Triangular bandages x 3
Plasters (a variety of sizes)
Safety pins x 6
Eye pads x 2
Non-alcohol based antiseptic wipes x 10
Sterile water x 2 (20ml each)
Micropor tape x 1
Blister plasters x 1 pack
Ice pack x 1

Medications:
Burn relief (a cooling bandage)
Paraffin gauze
Antiseptic cream
Diarrhoea prevention (or cure)
Painkillers
Sterile syringe (great for blisters)
Dental first aid equipment
Lavender oil (a little-known secret for dealing with insect stings)

Whatever you decide to put in your first aid kit for your own use is entirely up to you. For more information on any of these products either visit www.optimum-training.com or contact us on 0800 594 2134.

PLEASE NOTE: You cannot use the guidelines provided above for a workplace First Aid kit. Workplace First Aid must comply with legislative requirements of the country concerned. For more information visit the Frequently Asked Questions on our website.

Coroners Report on the Death of Six-Year-Old Pupil who Choked on Sausage

2008-06-26T12:27:00.001-07:00

The sad death of Shannon Hennessey was recorded as "Accidental Death" at a Coroners hearing last month. The six-year-old pupil died after choking on a piece of sausage during lunch at Redhill Infants School in Castleford, Yorkshire (UK).

The Coroner, David Hinchliffe is reported to have reached the verdict after declaring that all that could have been done, had been done, to save her life.

Teachers, dinner staff and paramedics all tried to clear her throat and revive her on 8th November 2006, but she was pronounced dead after arriving at hospital.

It's a sad case because as a First Aider we try so hard in such situations, however, sometimes we have to come to terms with the fact that there is only so much we can do to help in an instance like this.

I'm sure the First Aiders concerned are deeply upset by the incident and I think it's vitally important that we recognise their bravery and courage in dealing with the child. For those who have seen a child choking on something, you'll know how terrifying it can be. We must congratulate the dinner lady who, even without formal training, had the courage to take action and help in this situation by carrying out the abdominal thrust.

In a First Aid situation, if a casualty is choking, the following action should be taken:

Check the mouth is clear.
Lean the casualty forward (child or baby: place over your knee, with the head lower than the rest of the body).
Give the casualty 5 back slaps.
If that does not work, give the casualty 5 abdominal thrusts.
Repeat if necessary.
If the casualty becomes unconscious, be prepared to resuscitate.

Please remember, in MOST cases, this simple procedure is VERY effective. Unfortunately, we rarely hear about the successful removal of an obstruction in a First Aid situation, yet it happens so often. If you have dealt with such a First Aid situation yourself, take the time to congratulate yourself on your action ... you are a star!

If you would like to see a demonstration of how to carry out the abdominal thrust,
please visit our website film demonstration

For an amusing demonstration of the abdominal thrust, try watching the movie "Mrs Doubtfire". The trailer can be viewed at New York Times Movies

Response to Last Posting Regarding Dirty Kitchens

2008-06-13T00:29:00.000-07:00

Thanks Mick, for your response to our posting regarding the above. I will only publish comments that include links that do not conflict with either my business or my ethics! But to be fair, Mick made a very valid comment and here it is...without the link:

"it's unbelievable. Everyone in catering should have a basic food hygiene, and they're all available dirt cheap and online, so there's just no excuse."

My additional comment is that the study was carried out in the HOME, not just in catering environments! It's important that everyone at work AND home, protect themselves and their family (particularly the young and the elderly, who are most at risk). You only have to look at TV programmes like Kim & Aggie's How Clean is Your House? to see the kind of squalor that people live in!

I know that most of my readers don't live in this kind of squalor... how? Mainly because most of our readers have probably met me personally, either at a seminar or in some cases, your own home.

However it doesn't need to be the kind of squalor that gets you on TV to be a hazard to your health. Good health should be your most prized possession. Without it, the quality of your live can deteriorate and, in some cases, stop you from doing the things you really enjoy doing. So take the time now to look at your own kitchen hygiene practices, and make some adjustments now.

For information on food safety and hygiene courses that are fun, inspirational and easy-to-learn, visit OPTIMUM Training's Website . We are launching an on-line programme in July 2008, so that you can learn from the comfort of your own home. At just £25.00 including VAT and Certification, it's hard to beat!

UK Dirty Kitchen Hygiene Report - Is This for Real?

2008-06-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

Today’s headline news that the UK is the dirtiest developed country in the world seemed to have shocked the nation, including Professor John Oxford of Bart's and the London Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry who was interviews on City Talk Radio this morning. Yet why should we be shocked? Having taught Food Hygiene and Safety training for over 10 years, I’m not at all surprised. Hygiene habits are often passed on by our parents... and "it (poor practice) never harmed them" is what I hear all the time! So it's not so surprising really...

Kitchen dishcloths are the biggest culprit - harbouring the E.coli bacteria amongst other things and are a major cause of food poisoning. There are many strains of E.coli, not all of which are harmful. The strain that causes most severe food poisoning is E. coli O157:H7

Every First Aider should know how to recognise Food Poisoning and how to deal with it. However, prevention is better than cure, so here are some tips to help prevent and deal with food poisoning.

Tips: Preventing Food Poisoning

1. Keep separate cloths for different jobs and make sure everyone knows what they are. For example I have colour-coded cloths:Pink - in the sink (for dishes only)Blue - for the loo and mildew (the dirty jobs)Cream - to keep the sides clean (to wipe down all surface areas in the kitchen).Because I have made this rhyme everyone (including my cleaner) remembers them.
2. Disinfect cloths every day. If you have a dishwasher, you can put them in there for the last cycle of the day.
3. Wipe down often-used surfaces like fridge/cupboard door handles on a regular basis.
4. Let dishes dry naturally rather than use a tea towel.

Recognising Food Poisoning

So, how does a First Aider recognise and treat Food Poisoning?
Recogniseing E. coli O157:H7 symptoms can be difficult but include severe bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps (usually within 24 hours of exposure and lasts from one to eight days), but sometimes the infection causes non-bloody diarrhea, a slight fever, mild fever, anemia or no symptoms at all. It is rare for the victim to vomit – although this is common in other types of food poisoning.

How to Treat Food Poisoning

Food poisoning can be extremely dangerous and indeed life threatening. In the worse case scenario different forms of food poisoning can result in cancer, alopecia (hair loss), chronic illness and disability (particularly in the most vulnerable; children and the elderly,) so early recognition and treatment is vital.

First Aid treatment is very simple:
Check for Danger, Response, Airway, and Breathing.
Treat for Shock – lay casualty down and raise legs, keep warm, reassure

The medical treatment for E. coli specifically is in the form of electrolytes (salts and minerals that form electrically charges particles - ions - in body fluids). Electrolytes are important because they control body fluid balance and are important for all major body reactions. There are some effective, pleasant-tasting replacement fluids available without prescription.

Dehydration can occur when more fluids are being lost than can be consumed, this is evident more so in the very young, the elderly, and people who are taking diuretics. To prevent dehydration, a doctor may give fluids intravenously.

Diarrhoea is the body’s way of removing the toxins from the body as quickly as possible. Taking any anti-diarrhoeal medication is usually avoided.

Road to Recovery:

People who experience food poisoning should modify their diet. Eating and drinking should be avoided whilst vomiting or diarrhoea is present (with the exception of drinking small quantities (sips) of water or other clear fluid).

Once vomiting and diarrhoea stop, they should eat bland, soft, easy-to-digest foods for two to three days e.g. the BRAT diet of Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast, all of which are easy to digest. Avoid products like milk, spicy food, alcohol and fresh fruit for a few days. These modifications are often all the treatment that is necessary.

Final Comment:

As I have mentioned though, prevention is better than cure - so take some action now and ditch those dirty cloths!

Articles Removed Will be Re-Published

2007-09-20T01:58:00.000-07:00

I've removed a few articles due to other Bloggers using it as advertising space!
I'll republish them in due course.
From now on, any comments will be checked for genuine comments.
I apologise to those seeking the articles I may have referred to in my newsletter or elsewhere on the web.
Regards
Amanda

£30 Penalty For Not Following New Child Seat Regulations.

2007-02-25T08:23:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the air and that means more road trips being planned. With this in mind, you need to be aware that on 18 September 2006 new regulations governing the use of child car seats came into force. This affects every parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, childcare provider or anyone carrying children in their car. The purpose is to make car journeys as safe as possible and to help reduce the injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents which, of course, may make the job a little easier for those carrying out First Aid.

1993 was the last time these regulations were reviewed. At the time, there were few rear seatbelts and the rules were to “use child seats and boosters if they are available”.

All new cars and the vast majority of older cars now have rear seat belts and drivers should always be using child seats and boosters as this puts the young passenger in the correct position to benefit from the adult seat belt properly. Thus reducing the risk of injury and need for your First Aid skills to be put into practice!

The new regulations mean that you must not carry a child without a booster seat if they are less than 135cms tall – and the driver is responsible for ensuring these new safety rules are carried out. So if you try to use the defence “I didn’t know” or "my child thinks booster seats aren't cool", you’ll soon find that you are defending yourself against a case of negligence not just a breach of safety rules. There is a £30 penalty for not following the regulations.

For passengers over 150cm (just under 5') tall, with an adult bone structure, then Adult seat belts must be worn throughout the journey.Your own children may already be over the required 135cms in height, but if you carry other people’s children who are less than 135cms (on school runs, days out or holidays for example), then the regulations will still apply.When giving a young passenger a lift, (and they are less than 135cms), ask their parents if they have a suitable booster seat that you can borrow?

Fitting Booster Seats:

To avoid injury, a booster seat should be fitted correctly. Check these points:
1. Ensure it is properly secure – A Leading Magazine has recently published an article regarding a survey they carried out. The result? Over 60% of child seats are ill fitted, causing danger to the child.
2. Check that the child comfortable - being uncomfortable could be a sign that the seat and strap are incorrectly fitted.
3. Check that the seat belt is properly adjusted - so that the belt runs across the body and shoulder and does not get caught on the child's neck.
4. Ensure that all passenger belts are in place BEFORE you start the engine, regardless of how old your passengers are. It’s good discipline and creates good safety habits.

The whole purpose of this change in the law is to increase the chances of survival in a motor vehicle accident. Seat belts do cause injuries in a collision (sometimes), but not as severe as the injuries of a passenger who isn’t wearing a seatbelt. If you want to know more about what First Aid to give in a motor vehicle collision, you will soon be able to download the audio onto your MP3 from www.optimum-training.com

More First Aid Tips Following New Dog Attack

2006-11-24T04:45:00.000-08:00

As a three-year-old girl from Warwickshire begins to recover in hospital from her serious head injuries following an attack by a Dobermann Pinscher family pet, questions are (once again) being raised about the safety of children with dogs as well as what other First Aid tips would be useful.

It’s been reported that the girl suffered from head, neck and throat injuries in the incident that took place in the garden of her grandparents’ house.

Her condition was stabilised by a doctor from the Air Ambulance who arrived on scene in a helicopter. She was then flown to Heartlands Hospital in Birmingham for further treatment.

Facial, head and neck injuries are always distressing for both the casualty and the First Aider or other medically trained staff dealing with it. There is no doubt the child would be distraught, as would the parents - so the first aid role is crucial in aiding the recovery of the casualty.

I’ve already posted some First Aid advice on this blog for such incidents, however it is worth pointing out the First Aid treatment for facial injuries.

First Aid for Facial/Neck Injuries:

First of all, the most important thing you must do once the injured person is free from danger is to get medical help, remain calm and show the injured person that you can help them by the actions you take.

Be firm yet comforting to your casualty. Reassure them with phrases like “I’m here to help” and explain everything you are doing or intend to do. DO NOT say, “Everything is going to be alright” because you don’t know if that is true or not. Everything might not be “alright”, especially if it results in plastic surgery or even death – and what you deem to be “alright” may be very different from what the casualty or bystanders deem to be “alright”.

Cover the injuries as quickly as possible to avoid further distress for either the casualty or witnesses. Be sure not to apply too much pressure over the area, especially around the neck (for obvious reasons!).

Avoid any reference within earshot of the casualty to the poor state of the casualty’s injuries or condition as this can (and probably will) affect their recovery. You’ll find everything you need to know on the impact of what you say and how you say it in my next book “Let’s talk First Aid” which will be out next year.

Let's Talk First Aid

2006-11-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

For over 15 years I've been teaching people the importance of being mindful of the words you use at an emergency situation. Recently I discovered that there is real scientific evidence to support my beliefs.

Obviously, through my own experience I have been able to prove the point. But now I have found the solid evident. In the 1970’s a psychologist/psychiatrist by the name of Wright developed a programme for first aiders and tested it in the field. Using standard experiment procedures and controls, he trained three groups of ambulance attendants to carefully follow a simple protocol with all their casualties. These were:

1. Minimise crowd and noise

2. Communicate to the casualty with a simple paragraph, stated word for word

3. Eliminate unrelated negative conversation i.e. anything not relevant to what was said in paragraph 2.

The success of the experiment was unprecedented. It worked so well that even Wright said, “it was almost spoiled” because the paramedics involved that used the techniques could hardly resist telling those in the control group.

Every OPTIMUM Licensed Instructor teaches the techniques Wright had so diligently tested. Without these strategies your casualty's chance of survival decreases - and I know you will want to make sure your casualty has every chance of survival.

I have used the strategies for many years and am now in the process of writing a book on the subject including my experiences. One such experience that stands out for me is one that occurred at a School in the Netherlands. I was working there as a consultant and a woman collapsed in the dining hall. I went to help her and applied the techniques our instructors teach on their courses. This resulted in the casualty becoming calm and relaxed within less than one minute.

Then the most dreadful thing happened. A first aider burst into the room as screamed at the top of her voice "Where's the casualty?" She then ran to the casualty and screamed in her face "Where's the PAINNNNNN?" The casualty immediately began to cry and panic once more. I was left with no alternative but to deal with the so-called First Aider. T

his First Aider could claim to have "followed the correct protocol" for first aid. After all she had:

1. Assessed the danger and take control.

2. Identified the casualty.

3. Found out the source of the pain.]

However, she had also alarmed the casualty with her approach. I have always said that our job as First Aiders is to be casualty focused and driven, not procedure driven. This First Aider was procedure driven. If she had focussed on the needs of the casualty she would have been far more successful in her approach.

When you are dealing with First Aid Casualty's keep your focus on what the casualty needs from you - and often that is reassurance and a sense of calm.

Remember, Remember, 5th November, & Say "No" To Danger

2006-11-01T02:13:00.000-08:00

BONFIRE NIGHT should be a wonderful and joyous event. To ensure that everybody enjoys the fireworks and treacle toffee this November, I urge you to gain some basic health and safety knowledge to reduce the number of accidents this year. With almost 990 people being injured by fireworks last year it's important to take care when dealing with fireworks and always make sure the bonfire is a safe distance from children, pets and adults alike.

Last year 50 percent of injuries were sustained at family and private parties - so organisers, please make a note of my top tips.

If you should find yourself in need of assisting someone in a First Aid situation please use this checklist to help you:

* Remember that our priorities are always DRAB

* Assess the situation and check for danger. The biggest danger is the fire and lack of control. Move people away from the area.

* The biggest risk on Bonfire Night is burns from the fire or from fireworks. Another risk is choking (unusual treats like toffee apples can get stuck in the throat).
Both types of casualtiy will also suffer from Shock.

* Choking casualties are always the number one priority, however you can get other people to help you. Cool water will help with burns.

* Choking casualty
Leaning the casualty forward, give them 5 slaps on the back.
If that doesn’t work, the give 5 abdominal thrusts – checking to see if the object is removed before each abdominal thrust.

* Burn casualty
All burns should be cooled for a minimum of 10 minutes – or until medical aid arrives. If a burn is bigger than a 50p piece, please seek medical advice.
A burn to the eye is extremely serious and additional assistance will be required - the casualty will suffer from severe shock, so lay the casualty down, give lots of reassurance and irrigate the eye until the emergency services arrive. Raise the casualty’s legs to promote circulation from the legs to the vital organs.

Some further tips:
1. Purchase good quality fireworks to avoid injury.
2. Avoid using any inflammatory liquids to light a bonfire.
3. Only use wood, twigs, branches etc for the bonfire, avoid throwing just anything onto the it – some materials are toxic when burned.
4. Never throw aerosols onto a bonfire.
5. Put one person in charge of the bonfire and one in charge of the fireworks. The person responsible should avoid drinking alcohol.
6. Light fireworks in an area cordoned off and where it is unlikely to cause damage to other things including sheds etc.
7. Buy some first aid equipment and keep it handy for the occasion. We recommend a substance called Burn Shield which is made up of 96% water and the rest is a gel. I recommend Burn Shield, which is placed directly over a burn and can be used instead of water. Some ambulance services in the UK use this product as it is extremely effective. And, because it contains no chemicals, it can be used on any burn in a first aid situation. If you would like to purchase the product it costs £4.50+VAT and is worth every penny. It can also be used for sunburn too! If you are unsure where to purchase these items, please visit our website shop.

Have a safe and enjoyable evening on 5th November.

Blaze at Fireworks Factory is a Timely Reminder For the Weeks Ahead

2006-09-28T04:38:00.000-07:00

With a fireworks factory thought to contain over two tons of bangers and rockets going up in flames in Bradford recently, it's a stark reminder of the dangers of the forthcoming 5th November.
September is the time we start hearing the occassional bangers being let off in the streets in the run up to Bonfire Night - one of my favourite fun nights of the year by the way! :-)
October is when we begin hearing of injuries caused to people and pets as young teenagers somehow get a handful of fireworks and start playing tricks on passers by.
Bonfire Night should be a fun, enjoyable and most of all SAFE evening. Thankfully, 2005 casualty injury figures were lower than 2004.

With almost 990 people being injured by fireworks last year, and I encourage party organisers, especially at family and private parties where last year 50 percent of injuries were sustained, to be more aware of danger and provides the following top tips:

· The greatest risk on Bonfire Night is burns from the fire or fireworks. Another risk is choking (unusual treats like toffee apples can get stuck in the throat). Both types of casualty will also suffer from shock.
· Choking casualties are always the number one priority, however, you can get other people to help you. Cool water will help with burns.
· If someone is choking, lean them forward and give them 5 slaps on the back. If that doesn’t work, then give 5 abdominal trusts – checking to see if the object is removed before each abdominal thrust.
· All burns should be cooled for a minimum of 10 minutes – or until medical aid arrives. If a burn is bigger than a 50p piece, you should seek medical advice.
· Buy some first aid equipment and keep it handy for the occasion. We recommend Burn bandages, which is placed directly over a burn and can be used instead of water to cool the burn. Some ambulance services in the UK have used this product because it is extremely effective. It only costs around £5.50 + VAT.

And remember, your approach to any situation should be one that focusses on the casualty's needs. If you treat a casualty confidently and with care and respect, you'll also help reduce the level of shock.

Have a great Bonfire Evening event!

As Heart Transplant Patient Dies, First Aid Questions Arise

2006-08-30T01:50:00.000-07:00

Today I heard the news that Mr Macdonald, from Nairn in the Highlands, Britain's longest surviving heart transplant patient has died. My condolences go to his family and friends.

Gordon Macdonald was in his 60s and had suffered from Cardiomyopathy, which is sometimes a genetic disease that causes the heart muscle to become inflamed or enlarged. The wonders of modern science meant that Gordon Macdonald's life was extended by 26 years. Mr Macdonald underwent the operation at a Cambridge hospital in 1980. He had been forced to retire early due to the condition, but after the operation was able to work for a construction company.

By having the operation it allowed him to resume work, play golf and enjoy many more years with his family and friends. I admire the work of the physicians who are such skilled practitioners and able to give people like Mr Macdonald the opportunity to enjoy another quarter of a century on this planet.

I am often asked on First Aid Courses, what a First Aider should do with a casualty who collapses and stops breathing normally if the First Aider knows the casualty has had such an operation.

The answer is simple; the treatment would be no different from any other casualty showing the same signs and symptoms. After all, a heart transplant means a replacement organ, so you would carry out CPR in the same way.

New Technology Improves CPR Skills Making CPREzy

2006-08-24T03:43:00.000-07:00

I am always on the look out for advances in the field of First Aid training. So when I attended the European Resuscitation Council conference in Norway back in May 2006, I discovered a new device that I believe will impact on the quality of both First Aid/CPR training AND the First Aider's ability to be more effective in an emergency.

Research in Germany found that students using this devise (which is a sensor pad, known as CPREzy) during training retained their skills longer when they were tested later without the device.

With around 250,000 heart attacks in the UK each year, approximately half are cardiac arrest (when the heart stops beating). Less than 5% of cardiac arrest casualties survive – often due to no, or poor, CPR at the time of collapse.

Correctly performed CPR can make the difference between life and death by providing sufficient blood flow to the brain to prevent brain damage - giving First Aiders more confidence (and giving their casualty a better chance of survival) with this amazing new device.

One device in each workplace building could give First Aiders more confidence if and when they have to deal with a situation. It is also a perfect TRAINING tool as it can be used on any hard surface for practice purposes, so I've incorporated it into all OPTIMUM courses.

This device provides hope for improving the statistics mentioned earlier. With testimonials for the device both in and out of hospital, plus the back up research which concluded:
“The use of the simple, portable and reuseable device by previously untrained people leads to a significant improvement in a cardiac arrest scenario to standard training regarding rate and depth of the External Chest Compressions.”
And
“This device is able to achieve an enduring effect for the compression depth after it has been used for resuscitation training”.

The device is an interactive aid designed to assist First Aiders perform more effective CPR in an emergency by:
1. Giving out an audible tone at the rate of 100 beats per minute, which means the First Aider doesn't have to think "Is this the correct pace? Am I doing it fast enough?"
2. Lights on the pad indicate the level of force that is being applied via a sensor. It informs the First Aider at 5 levels for a; child, small adult, average adult, large adult and extra large adult. Can be used on anyone weighing 40kg or more. This means that the First Aider can see how much pressure they are applying and if the sensors will indicate if more pressure needs to be applied.
Simply follow these steps:
1. Place the mask over the casualty's mouth
2. Position the pad on the lower half of the casualty's chest
3. Switch the pad on. An audible 100 beats per minute tone will begin.
4. Continue CPR as normal by pressing down onto the pad placed on the chest.

Pack contains:
Training Video DVD including CPR
2 pairs gloves
1 Sensor Pad
1 x battery
1 x face mask
Water resistant carry case that can be fitted to the wall.

I've made a decision to invest in this device for training courses in order to help course participants to become more proficient for longer.

The retail price of this is approximately £140 inc VAT (plus delivery) and if you want to invest in one so you can practice your skills or learn more about it then visit www.optimum-training.com

2006-08-08T11:14:00.000-07:00

A recent report by the BBC** claims people who make irrational decision when faced with problems are at the mercy of their emotions.
The report goes on to state that the Brain’s emotional centre, the amygdala, is the origin of decisions and it becomes extremely active in people faced with a difficult situation but reactions to its affects vary, according to Researchers at the University College London.
The researchers found the people that kept a cool head managed to keep their emotions in check, whereas others were led by their emotional response.*

This is useful information to know as First Aiders. Many First Aiders are concerned that they will not be able to respond in an emergency situation. When surveyed, 60% of new course participants (“new” meaning they had never attended a first aid course before) voiced this as their primary concern.

Daniel Goldman, author of the international bestseller Emotional Intelligence demonstrated how we can control our emotional responses by first of all becoming aware of the responses.

Emotions, if left unchecked can fuel irrational acts, however that need not be the case. I often talk about having a “casualty driven” approach to first aid when dealing with a casualty as opposed to being “procedure driven”. What does this mean? A casualty driven approach to first aid means that as a First Aider, you focus on what you can do for the casualty rather than focussing on whether or not you are following the "correct" procedure.

This doesn’t mean that procedures aren’t important. Of course they are. What it means is that procedures should only be used as guidelines, because every single first aid situation is totally unique. Although there are similarities between different incidents, they are never the same. So procedures should be taught as guidance only.

Focus on what help the individual casualty wants/needs from you. Ask yourself “What does this casualty want/need from me right now?” When you do this, you’ll find yourself responding better in any situation – because when you focus on the casualty rather than yourself, your brain’s emotional centre may be less active as the logical and creative hemispheres of the brain are actively seeking answers to your question.

** Source: BBC Website 3 August 2006* The study findings were published in the Science Journal, according to the BBC report.