Basic first aid skills will keep you and your co-workers safer on the job. This article focuses on basic cuts, blisters and burns. Be sure and take an official first aid class to learn how to handle these situations.
Every workplace has dangers. No matter how much focus is placed on safety, accidents will still occur. Understanding basic first aid skills can keep an injury from being worse and can even save a life. Knowing what to do in these emergency situations is easy it just takes a little training so you have the knowledge when an emergency happens. You will able to react quickly and correctly until medical help arrives. Nothing takes the place of CPR or first aid training but here are some examples of how you can assist in an injury situation.
Basic Cut
If a cut of the skin occurs you need to first stop the bleeding with direct pressure. Secondly, you clean the wound with soap and water. Lastly give it time to dry and put a sterile bandage on it. If the cut is long or deep or if it is still sore after a few days, consult a doctor. Any cut by a rusty object requires immediate medical attention by a doctor.
Blisters
Friction causes blisters and many times continuous use of a tool or another item can cause blistering. Keep the skin unbroken and avoid further contact with the area. If the skin breaks, clean immediately and apply a sterile bandage.
Burns
Burns are painful and need the cool water to lessen the pain, however do not apply water if the area has open blisters or actually charring. Soak the injury or apply ice, but do not try clean the affected area or break any blisters. Always apply a sterile dressing. Never apply ointments or salves unless instructed by a physician.
Chemical Burns
Chemical burns are extremely dangerous because the burn will keep getting worse until the substance has been removed. You will need to get the burn to running water as soon as possible. Immediately get to a sink or safety shower and keep the affected area until the water for at least 15 minutes. Chemical burns always require a doctor.
First aid is all about preparation. Every employee should take a first aid class and learn burns, blisters and cuts. If you are prepared, you can think and act quickly in an emergency and maybe even save a life.
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