1.1 What Is First Aid?

First Aid is the immediate care provided to someone who’s injured or suddenly ill, before professional medical services are available. It’s not just about CPR and gauze pads—it’s about knowing what to do (and just as importantly, what not to do) in those first critical minutes.

Whether it’s a minor scrape or a life-threatening event, your response matters. First Aid can:

• Save a life – especially in cases like cardiac arrest, choking, or severe bleeding.
• Prevent the situation from getting worse – stabilizing fractures, protecting spinal injuries, or stopping bleeding.
• Promote faster recovery – early care often leads to better outcomes.

Contrary to what some people think, First Aid doesn’t require a medical degree. It’s about preparedness, calm thinking, and basic skills—all of which you’ll gain in this course.

You might not feel like a “first responder,” but if you’re the first person there, that’s exactly what you are. First Aid turns everyday people into lifesavers.