Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
jured, spend your time on another victim who might benefit from your efforts, but even when
things look terrible, try not to give up. Hypothermic and cold-water drowning victims have
been revived after unbelievably long periods of time (hours, not just minutes), and many acci-
dent victims have been kept alive for hours using CPR.
Consent and Liability
When approaching an accident victim, shout for help, and then identify yourself, quickly ex-
plaining that you know first aid and that you are there to help. It can happen that a person just
looks like they need help, but may be drunk or simply resting in an unnatural-looking position.
Sticking to these procedures can save you embarrassment, justifiable outrage, or a hard fist in
the face.
Note:
If the victim is aware and mentally capable, you must receive his or her consent be-
fore you begin treatment. For minors (under eighteen), obtain the permission of the guardian. If
a parent or guardian is not available, the law says that you have “implied consent,” meaning
that it is assumed the parents would have wanted you to help their child had they been present.
If the victim is conscious and aware, talk to him or her about the extent of the injuries be-
fore proceeding. Use your judgment, but always try to do no further harm. For example, using
CPR on an injured person whose heart is still beating could cause serious injury, but if the heart
is not beating, CPR is probably the victim's only chance for survival. Nearly all states have
Good Samaritan laws to protect lay citizens from liability, as long as they did not do something
grossly negligent or deliberately harmful.
ABCs of First Aid
Treatment of the trauma victim starts with the ABCs:
airway, breathing,
and
circulation
. If any
of these fail, the victim is in a life-or-death situation, and intervention is essential.
•
Airway:
The air passage must be clear of fluids and obstructions so the victim can
breathe.
•
Breathing:
To survive, a person must breathe.
•
Circulation:
The blood must circulate for the victim to survive for more than a few
minutes. There must be a pulse, and severe bleeding must be stopped.
Treatment Priority
Assess the situation and move yourself and the victim(s) out of danger if necessary. Use the
following priority list to determine what and whom to treat first.
