Understanding Open Wounds
Open wounds range from minor cuts and scrapes to severe, life-threatening injuries. They increase the risk of infection and blood loss, making proper First Aid essential.
In First Aid, open wounds are divided into six categories based on the type of injury.
Types of Open Wounds
Abrasions (Scrapes)
Cause: Rubbing or scraping against a rough surface Appearance: Shallow wound with minor bleeding Risk: Low, but infection is a concern
First Aid:
- Clean the wound with soap and water.
- Apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
- Cover with a sterile bandage.
Amputations (Severed Limbs or Fingers)
Cause: Complete loss of a body part (fingers, toes, hands, feet, limbs) Bleeding: May be excessive or minimal, depending on blood vessel constriction
First Aid for Amputations: Control bleeding with direct pressure. DO NOT discard the severed part—it may be possible to reattach it.
Wrap the amputated part in sterile gauze, place it in a plastic bag, and keep it cool (on ice but NOT directly in ice water).
Treat for shock and call 911 immediately.
Avulsions (Torn Skin & Tissue)
Cause: Violent tearing of skin and tissue (e.g., machinery accidents, animal bites) Risk: High risk of infection and severe bleeding
First Aid for Avulsions:
- Control bleeding with direct pressure.
- Reposition torn skin if possible before dressing the wound.
- Cover with a sterile bandage and seek medical help immediately.
Incisions (Clean, Straight Cuts)
Cause: Sharp objects (knives, glass, razors) Bleeding: May be severe if major blood vessels or nerves are cut
First Aid for Incisions:
- Apply direct pressure to stop bleeding.
- Rinse with clean water to remove debris.
- Cover with a sterile bandage.
- Elevate the wound above heart level to slow bleeding.
Seek medical help if: The cut is deep or gaping. Muscle, fat, or bone is visible. The wound does not stop bleeding after 10 minutes of pressure.
Lacerations (Jagged or Torn Flesh)
Cause: Cuts with rough or jagged edges (often from blunt force trauma) Bleeding: Moderate to severe, higher risk of scarring
First Aid for Lacerations:
- Stop bleeding with direct pressure.
- Clean the wound gently—do not scrub!
- Apply a sterile dressing and seek medical attention if deep.
Puncture Wounds (Deep, Narrow Injuries)
Cause: Sharp, pointed objects (nails, needles, bullets, animal bites) Bleeding: Minimal external bleeding, but high infection risk
First Aid for Puncture Wounds:
- Do NOT remove deeply embedded objects—this can cause severe bleeding.
- Flush the wound with clean water.
- Apply a clean bandage but avoid tight wrapping.
- Watch for signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).
Tetanus Risk: Puncture wounds require a tetanus shot if the victim is not up to date!
General First Aid for Bleeding
The primary goals of First Aid for bleeding are to: Stop blood flow Prevent infection Keep the victim calm & still
How to Control Bleeding: Expose the wound – Cut away clothing around it. Remove loose debris – Wipe away from the wound (do NOT remove embedded objects). Apply direct pressure – Use sterile gauze or a clean cloth. Keep pressure on the wound until bleeding stops (10+ minutes if needed). Elevate the wound above heart level if possible. Treat for shock if the person is pale, weak, or dizzy.
Seek medical attention for severe or deep wounds.
When to Call 911
Call 911 immediately if: Bleeding does not stop after 10 minutes of firm pressure. The wound is deep, gaping, or spurting blood (possible arterial bleeding). The victim shows signs of shock (weak pulse, pale skin, confusion). A foreign object is embedded in the wound. A limb or finger has been amputated.
Quick Quiz: Open Wounds & Bleeding First Aid
a) Incision
b) Laceration
c) Puncture
a) Pull it out immediately
b) Leave it in place and apply pressure around it
c) Pour alcohol over it
a) Apply direct pressure
b) Elevate the wound
c) Apply a bandage
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
Open wounds include abrasions, amputations, avulsions, incisions, lacerations, and punctures. Apply direct pressure to control bleeding, but do NOT remove embedded objects. Amputated parts should be kept cool but NOT placed directly on ice. Seek medical attention for deep wounds, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection.
Understanding Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency occurs when a tooth is broken, knocked out, or severely damaged, often due to falls, sports injuries, accidents, or biting down on something hard.
🚨 Quick action can save a knocked-out tooth! A tooth has the best chance of survival if replaced within 30 minutes.
Common Dental Emergencies & First Aid
1️⃣ Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth) 🚨
✔ Handle the tooth by the crown (top part), NOT the root!
✔ Do NOT scrub or wash the root—this can remove vital tissue needed for reattachment.
✔ If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and have the person bite down on gauze.
✔ If reimplanting is not possible, keep the tooth moist:
✅ Place it in milk (best option).
✅ If no milk is available, use saliva or a tooth preservation kit (if available).
✅ DO NOT store it in water—it can damage the root.
✔ Get to a dentist immediately!
🚨 The sooner the tooth is reinserted, the better the chance of saving it!
2️⃣ Chipped or Broken Tooth
✔ If a piece of the tooth breaks off, save it if possible.
✔ Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.
✔ Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
✔ Avoid eating hard foods until seen by a dentist.
✔ Seek dental care as soon as possible.
🚨 If the break exposes the nerve (severe pain, bleeding inside the tooth), seek immediate dental care!
3️⃣ Severe Toothache
✔ Rinse the mouth with warm water to remove debris.
✔ Gently floss to remove any trapped food.
✔ Do NOT apply aspirin directly to the tooth or gums—it can burn tissue.
✔ Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to reduce pain.
✔ Seek a dentist if pain persists or worsens.
🚨 A swollen face with severe pain may indicate an infection—call a dentist immediately!
4️⃣ Objects Stuck Between Teeth
✔ Use dental floss gently—do NOT use sharp objects like pins or knives.
✔ Rinse the mouth with warm water.
✔ If the object does not come out, see a dentist.
🚨 DO NOT use force—this can push the object deeper or damage the gums.
5️⃣ Lip, Tongue, or Gum Injuries
✔ If bleeding, apply direct pressure with clean gauze.
✔ Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
✔ If the cut is deep or won’t stop bleeding, seek medical attention.
🚨 Deep cuts in the mouth can become infected—watch for signs of swelling or pus.
When to Call 911 🚨
📌 Seek emergency care if:
🚨 A knocked-out tooth cannot be saved or bleeding won’t stop.
🚨 A broken tooth causes extreme pain or exposes the nerve.
🚨 Facial swelling, fever, or severe pain suggests an infection.
🚨 The person has difficulty breathing or swallowing due to swelling.
💡 For knocked-out teeth, get to a dentist immediately—time is critical!
Quick Quiz: Dental Emergencies & First Aid
1️⃣ What should you do FIRST if a tooth is knocked out?
a) Scrub the root clean and store it in water
b) Pick it up by the crown and store it in milk or saliva
c) Throw it away since it can’t be saved
2️⃣ True or False: If you can, you should place a knocked-out tooth back into its socket.
3️⃣ What should you do for a broken tooth with exposed nerve?
a) Rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress
b) Wait to see if it stops hurting on its own
c) Chew on the injured side
4️⃣ If something is stuck between the teeth, what is the safest way to remove it?
a) Use a knife or pin
b) Use floss and rinse with warm water
c) Try to pull it out forcefully
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
✔ A knocked-out tooth can often be saved if reinserted within 30 minutes.
✔ Handle knocked-out teeth by the crown, NOT the root—store in milk or saliva if reimplanting isn’t possible.
✔ Chipped or broken teeth should be rinsed and seen by a dentist as soon as possible.
✔ Facial swelling, extreme pain, or exposed nerves require immediate dental care.
Understanding Burn Severity
Burns are classified based on depth of damage and cause. Identifying the type of burn is crucial for proper First Aid.
Burn Severity: 3 Degrees of Burns
🔹 1st Degree (Minor Burns) – Affects only the outer layer of skin (epidermis)
✔ Symptoms:
✅ Redness
✅ Pain
✅ Mild swelling
🔹 2nd Degree (Moderate Burns) – Affects deeper layers of skin (dermis)
✔ Symptoms:
✅ Blisters
✅ Intense pain
✅ Skin appears wet or shiny due to exposed tissue
🔹 3rd Degree (Severe Burns) – Affects all layers of skin and may extend into muscle and bone
✔ Symptoms:
🚨 No pain (due to destroyed nerve endings)
🚨 Charred, white, or grayish skin
🚨 Possible muscle or bone damage
🚨 Severe burns require IMMEDIATE medical attention!
Types of Burns by Cause
Burns are also categorized based on what caused them:
🔥 Chemical Burns – Caused by acids, alkalis, or toxic chemicals
🔥 Thermal Burns – Caused by heat sources like flames, hot liquids, or steam
⚡ Electrical Burns – Caused by electrical current passing through the body
☢ Radiation Burns – Caused by exposure to radioactive material or UV rays
💡 Burns can cause more than just skin damage! They can injure muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, or cause airway damage if the person inhales smoke or fumes. Shock is a major risk for victims with severe burns.
First Aid for Burns
The type and severity of the burn determine the appropriate First Aid treatment.
🚨 Emergency Steps for ALL Burns
✅ Remove the person from the burn source (heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation).
✅ Remove clothing from the burned area (unless stuck to the skin).
✅ DO NOT use ointments, butter, or oils—these trap heat and worsen the burn.
✅ Watch for signs of shock (weak pulse, confusion, pale skin) and treat accordingly.
First Aid by Burn Type & Severity
🔥 Thermal Burns
For MINOR Burns (1st Degree & Small 2nd Degree):
✅ Cool the burn with cold water (not ice) for at least 10 minutes.
✅ Apply a clean, moist dressing to minimize blistering.
✅ Do NOT pop blisters—this increases infection risk.
For MODERATE or CRITICAL Burns (Severe 2nd & 3rd Degree):
🚨 DO NOT apply cold water to large or severe burns! This can cause chilling or shock.
🚨 Cover the burn with a dry, sterile dressing—avoid sticking bandages.
🚨 Treat for shock and call 911 immediately.
If the eyelids are burned:
✔ Apply moist, sterile gauze pads to both eyes and secure in place.
🧪 Chemical Burns
✅ Remove contaminated clothing immediately.
✅ Flush the affected area with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.
✅ DO NOT use neutralizing solutions—this can worsen the reaction.
✅ For dry chemical (alkali) burns, brush off the dry powder before rinsing with water.
🚨 Transport the victim to a medical facility ASAP.
Chemical Burns to the Eyes:
✔ Have the victim lie down.
✔ Hold the eyelids open and pour water from the inner corner outward.
✔ DO NOT use any neutralizing solutions.
🚨 Cover both eyes with sterile gauze and seek immediate medical attention.
⚡ Electrical Burns
✅ Turn off the power source before touching the victim!
✅ Check for cardiac arrest—monitor breathing and be ready to give CPR.
✅ Look for entry and exit wounds (electricity can burn the inside of the body).
✅ Cover burns with a dry, sterile dressing.
✅ Splint any suspected fractures (violent muscle contractions can break bones).
🚨 Call 911 immediately—internal injuries may not be visible!
💡 The biggest danger of electrical burns is NOT the burn itself but cardiac arrest and respiratory failure! Always check the victim’s pulse and breathing.
☢ Radiation Burns
✅ Limit your exposure time—radiation can harm the rescuer as well.
✅ Move the victim to a safe area away from radiation sources.
✅ Cover the burn with a dry, sterile dressing.
🚨 Contact radiation experts ASAP for guidance and transport.
💡 Radiation is invisible and undetectable to human senses. Rescuers must be cautious to avoid fatal exposure.
When to Call 911 🚨
Call 911 immediately if:
🚨 The burn is larger than the palm of the victim’s hand.
🚨 The burn goes deep (3rd degree) or is on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
🚨 The victim is having trouble breathing (may indicate airway burns).
🚨 Burns cover more than 10% of the body (especially in children or the elderly).
🚨 The person shows signs of shock (weak pulse, confusion, pale skin).
Quick Quiz: Burns & First Aid
1️⃣ Which of the following burns is the MOST severe?
a) 1st-degree burn
b) 2nd-degree burn
c) 3rd-degree burn
2️⃣ What should you do for a minor (1st-degree) burn?
a) Apply butter to the burn
b) Cool it with running water for 10+ minutes
c) Wrap it tightly with a bandage
3️⃣ True or False: You should remove clothing that is stuck to a burn.
4️⃣ What is the first step in treating a chemical burn?
a) Flush the area with water for at least 15 minutes
b) Apply a neutralizing solution
c) Bandage the area immediately
Final Thoughts: Lesson 5 Recap
✔ Burns are classified by severity (1st, 2nd, 3rd degree) and cause (chemical, thermal, electrical, radiation).
✔ Cool minor burns with cold water, but NEVER apply ice, butter, or oils.
✔ For chemical burns, rinse with water for at least 15 minutes—except for dry chemicals (brush off first).
✔ Electrical burns can cause cardiac arrest—always check breathing and be ready to give CPR.
✔ For severe burns, call 911 immediately and treat for shock.
Understanding Eye Injuries
The eyes are extremely sensitive, and even minor injuries can cause serious complications. Prompt First Aid can help prevent permanent damage or vision loss.
Common Eye Injuries & First Aid
1️⃣ Black Eye (Bruising Around the Eye)
✔ Cause: Trauma to the area around the eye, breaking blood vessels under the skin.
✔ Risk: Usually mild but can be serious if blood collects inside the eye (hyphema).
💡 First Aid for a Black Eye:
✔ Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling.
✔ Do NOT press directly on the eye—only apply pressure around the affected area.
🚨 Seek medical attention if:
- Vision becomes blurred or distorted.
- The eye is bleeding internally (hyphema).
- The victim experiences severe pain or light sensitivity.
2️⃣ Foreign Objects in the Eye (Dust, Sand, Metal, or Debris)
✔ Cause: Dust, dirt, metal, or small objects becoming trapped under the eyelid.
✔ Risk: Can cause scratching (corneal abrasion) or infection if not removed.
💡 First Aid for Foreign Objects in the Eye:
✔ Wash hands before touching the eye to prevent infection.
✔ Pull the lower eyelid down while the person looks up, and vice versa.
✔ Flush the eye with clean water or saline solution to remove the object.
🚨 Seek medical attention if:
- The object cannot be removed.
- The person has severe pain, redness, or vision loss.
- The object is embedded in the eye—DO NOT try to remove it!
3️⃣ Chemical Splashes in the Eye
✔ Cause: Exposure to chemicals such as acids, alkalis, cleaning agents, or fumes.
✔ Risk: Chemical burns can cause blindness if not treated immediately.
🚨 First Aid for Chemical Burns in the Eye:
✔ Act FAST! Every second counts.
✔ Flush the eye with running water for at least 20 minutes.
✔ Ensure water flows away from the unaffected eye.
✔ DO NOT use eye drops or any other solution unless instructed by a medical professional.
🚨 Call 911 immediately! Chemical burns require urgent medical care.
💡 If an eyewash station is available, use it immediately. If not, use a sink, hose, or even a clean bottle of water.
When to Call 911 🚨
Call 911 immediately if:
🚨 The eye is bleeding internally (hyphema).
🚨 A foreign object is stuck in the eye and cannot be removed.
🚨 The person loses vision or has severe pain.
🚨 Chemical exposure has caused irritation, redness, or vision problems.
Quick Quiz: Eye Injuries & First Aid
1️⃣ What should you do FIRST for a chemical splash in the eye?
a) Apply an ice pack
b) Flush the eye with clean water for at least 20 minutes
c) Cover the eye and wait for EMS
2️⃣ True or False: You should rub the eye to remove a foreign object.
3️⃣ When treating a black eye, what is the best way to reduce swelling?
a) Apply a warm compress
b) Use direct pressure on the eye
c) Apply a cold pack (wrapped in a cloth)
4️⃣ What should you do if an object is embedded in the eye?
a) Try to pull it out carefully
b) Cover the eye and seek emergency care
c) Have the person blink rapidly to remove it
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
✔ Apply a cold pack for a black eye, but never press directly on the eye.
✔ Flush the eye with clean water if a foreign object or chemical is present.
✔ NEVER rub an injured eye—this can worsen the damage.
✔ Seek emergency medical care for serious eye injuries, vision loss, or chemical exposure.
What is a Fracture?
A fracture is a break or crack in a bone, and it can range from mild to severe. Some fractures are obvious, while others may not be immediately visible. Recognizing the signs of a broken bone is crucial for proper First Aid.
Types of Fractures
Open (Compound) Fracture – The bone is broken and protrudes through the skin. High risk of infection! Closed (Simple) Fracture – The bone is broken but does not break the skin.
DANGER: Broken bones have sharp edges that can cut blood vessels, nerves, or muscles, leading to extreme pain and additional complications. Any rough movement can make the injury worse.
How to Recognize a Fracture
If the person is conscious, ask if they heard or felt their bone snap or crack. Also, look for these signs:
Pain or tenderness at the injury site Swelling and discoloration (bruising) Deformity (limb looks unnatural or out of place) Loss of function (unable to move or bear weight)
If you suspect a fracture, do NOT move the injured person unnecessarily.
First Aid for Fractures
If you suspect a fracture, follow these steps:
Step 1: Keep the Victim Still
Do not move them unless necessary. Any movement can make the injury worse. If the person is lying down, keep them in that position while attending to injuries.
Step 2: Control Bleeding (If Open Fracture)
Do NOT push the bone back in! Cover the wound with a sterile dressing. Apply gentle direct pressure around the wound if bleeding is severe.
Step 3: Immobilize the Injury with a Splint
Splinting helps prevent movement and reduces pain. If in doubt, always treat the injury as a fracture and splint it.
What Can Be Used as a Splint? Commercial splints (available in First Aid Kits) Improvised splints: Boards, magazines, newspapers, cardboard, or rolled-up clothing
How to Properly Apply a Splint: Do NOT try to straighten the broken bone. Pad the splint with soft material to prevent pressure on the injured area. Secure the splint above and below the fracture (joints above and below the break). Check circulation—splint should be firm, but not so tight that it cuts off blood flow. Elevate the limb if possible to reduce swelling.
Special Case: Lower Leg Fractures – Use two splints (one on each side of the leg). If no materials are available, the uninjured leg can act as a splint by securing both legs together.
The ICE Method: Remember These Steps for Bone Injuries
I – Ice 
- Apply an ice pack to reduce pain and swelling.
- Do not place ice directly on the skin—use a cloth or towel as a barrier.
C – Compression 
- If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth.
- Do NOT wrap it too tightly, as this may cut off circulation.
E – Elevation 
- Keep the injured area raised above heart level if possible.
- This helps reduce swelling and blood flow to the injury.
When to Call 911
Call 911 immediately if: The bone is visibly deformed or protruding through the skin There is heavy bleeding that does not stop The injured limb feels numb, cold, or turns blue The person loses consciousness or shows signs of shock (pale, weak pulse, rapid breathing)
Quick Quiz: Fractures & Broken Bones
a) An open fracture is worse because the bone breaks through the skin.
b) A closed fracture is more dangerous.
c) There is no difference between them.
a) Splint the injury
b) Try to straighten the broken bone
c) Apply an ice pack
a) Magazines
b) Rolled-up clothing
c) Both a & b
a) Elevation
b) Elastic Bandage
c) Emergency
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
A fracture can be open (bone breaks skin) or closed (bone remains under skin). DO NOT move the person unnecessarily or try to straighten the bone. Splint the injury to immobilize it and prevent further damage. Use the ICE method: Ice, Compression (for bleeding), and Elevation to minimize pain and swelling. Call 911 for severe fractures, heavy bleeding, or signs of shock.
Understanding Head Injuries
Head injuries range from minor bumps and bruises to serious traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even seemingly mild head injuries can be dangerous, so it’s important to recognize warning signs and act quickly.
Signs & Symptoms of a Serious Head Injury
🚨 Seek emergency care if the victim experiences:
✔ Excessive bleeding from an open head wound
✔ Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
✔ Breathing interruptions (shallow or irregular breathing)
✔ Severe disorientation, confusion, or memory loss
✔ Clear fluid (cerebrospinal fluid) leaking from the nose or ears
✔ Seizures or uncontrolled body movements
✔ One pupil larger than the other
✔ Slurred speech or difficulty walking
💡 If any of these symptoms occur, CALL 911 immediately!
First Aid for a Serious Head Injury 🚨
1️⃣ Call 911 immediately if the person has lost consciousness or shows severe symptoms.
2️⃣ Keep the victim still—head and neck movement can worsen injuries.
3️⃣ Lay them down with their head and shoulders slightly elevated.
4️⃣ If the wound is bleeding, cover it gently with gauze or a clean cloth. Apply light pressure unless you suspect a skull fracture.
5️⃣ Do NOT remove any objects stuck in the wound! Wait for emergency responders.
6️⃣ Do NOT leave the victim unattended. Monitor for signs of worsening symptoms.
7️⃣ If the person stops breathing, be prepared to perform CPR.
💡 If possible, place the victim in a dim, quiet area to minimize stimulation.
First Aid for a Minor Head Injury
If the injury does not involve severe symptoms (just a small bump or bruise):
✔ Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling.
✔ Encourage rest and observation for at least 24 hours.
✔ Monitor for signs of worsening symptoms—confusion, dizziness, or vomiting may indicate a more serious problem.
🚨 Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop (e.g., persistent headache, nausea, vision changes).
When to Call 911 🚨
Call 911 immediately if:
🚨 The person loses consciousness (even briefly).
🚨 They experience severe confusion, memory loss, or difficulty speaking.
🚨 There is excessive bleeding from the head.
🚨 The victim has seizures or difficulty moving their limbs.
🚨 Clear fluid is leaking from the nose or ears (possible skull fracture).
Quick Quiz: Head Injuries & First Aid
1️⃣ What is a serious warning sign of a head injury?
a) A small bruise on the forehead
b) Clear fluid draining from the nose or ears
c) A mild headache
2️⃣ What position should a person with a serious head injury be placed in?
a) Sitting up straight in a chair
b) Lying down with their head and shoulders slightly elevated
c) Lying flat on their back
3️⃣ True or False: If a head wound is bleeding heavily, you should apply direct pressure even if a skull fracture is suspected.
4️⃣ What should you do if a head injury victim becomes unresponsive and stops breathing?
a) Shake them to wake them up
b) Call 911 and begin CPR
c) Have them drink water
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
✔ Head injuries can range from mild to life-threatening.
✔ Watch for serious symptoms like confusion, unconsciousness, or fluid drainage from the nose/ears.
✔ Keep the victim still and call 911 if severe symptoms are present.
✔ Apply cold packs for minor head bumps, but monitor for delayed symptoms.
What is a Spinal Injury?
A spinal injury occurs when the spinal cord is damaged due to trauma. The spine controls movement, sensation, and organ function—so any injury can have permanent, life-altering consequences.
DO NOT move a person with a suspected spinal injury unless absolutely necessary!
Common Causes of Spinal Injuries
Falls from a height (stairs, ladders, roofs, cliffs) Car or motorcycle accidents Diving into shallow water Sports injuries (football, gymnastics, extreme sports) Violent impacts (gunshot wounds, stabbings, physical assaults) Heavy objects falling on the back or neck
Signs & Symptoms of a Spinal Injury
A spinal injury is not always obvious! Look for these warning signs: Severe pain or pressure in the neck, back, or spine Loss of sensation, tingling, or numbness in hands, feet, or limbs Inability to move arms or legs (partial or full paralysis) Difficulty breathing Loss of bowel or bladder control An oddly twisted or deformed back or neck
If ANY of these symptoms are present, assume a spinal injury and call 911 immediately!
First Aid for a Spinal Injury
Step 1: Call 911 Immediately
Do NOT move the person unless absolutely necessary! Keep them as still as possible until EMS arrives.
Step 2: Stabilize the Head & Neck
If they are lying down, place your hands on both sides of their head to keep it still. If they are wearing a helmet, DO NOT remove it! If they are standing, encourage them to stay still.
Step 3: Keep the Person Calm & Monitored
Talk to them to keep them conscious and reassured. Do NOT allow them to sit up or turn their head. Monitor breathing and pulse—be ready to give CPR if necessary.
Only move a spinal injury victim if they are in IMMEDIATE danger (fire, drowning, etc.). If you must move them, use the log roll technique (keeping the head, neck, and spine aligned).
When to Call 911
Call 911 immediately if: The person has fallen, been in an accident, or suffered a blow to the head/back. They experience paralysis, numbness, or severe pain in the spine. They have difficulty breathing. The spine or neck appears twisted or deformed.
Spinal injuries can be permanent—early intervention is critical!
Quick Quiz: Spinal Injuries & First Aid
a) Move the person into a comfortable position
b) Keep them still and call 911 immediately
c) Give them water to keep them hydrated
a) When EMS arrives
b) If they ask to be moved
c) Only if they are in immediate danger (fire, drowning, etc.)
a) Sharp pain in the chest
b) Numbness, tingling, or paralysis in the limbs
c) Sudden coughing fit
Final Thoughts: Lesson Recap
Spinal injuries can cause paralysis or death if not handled correctly. DO NOT move the person—keep them still and call 911 immediately. Stabilize the head and neck and monitor breathing. Only move them if there is immediate danger.