Many common occupational injuries can be treated on the spot with the supplies found in a normal first aid kit. Even more serious injuries that necessitate professional medical attention can be less severe and less likely to be deadly if first aid is delivered promptly. Knowing the fundamentals of first aid is thus an important aspect of workplace safety.
This post will go over common first aid occurrences and give you a quick summary of how to handle them on the spot.
Tears, sprains, and strains
Sprains, strains, and tears are muscle or ligament ailments. When a worker develops one of these conditions, the first step is to immobilize the affected area, elevate it, and administer cold and compression to minimize swelling.
Strains that cause severe discomfort, swelling, or discoloration may necessitate a trip to the hospital. Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicine will help the region heal in a few days or a week in milder situations.
Discomfort and pain
If an employee complains of soreness or pain, the source of the problem must be identified and eliminated. Poor ergonomics, such as inadequate posture or repetitive actions throughout the day, is a typical source of pain. Identifying and tackling the root cause of the problem can result in quick improvement. If the employee’s pain is severe or persistent, he or she should seek medical attention.
Contusions and bruises
Bruises and contusions are frequently caused by a collision with a moving or stationary object. The injured site is frequently swollen and discolored in a purple or blackish hue. If the pain is unbearable, take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Lukewarm water in a tiny plastic bottle rolled over the injured area will speed blood re-absorption, improving the appearance of the bruise. This warm water therapy can be repeated until the discomfort and discolouration have subsided.
Lacerations, cuts, and punctures
Cuts, lacerations, and punctures can be extremely painful. If the bleeding is not excessive, clean the wound with water and soap. You could also use an antiseptic solution. Apply sterilized gauze to the wound. Apply direct pressure if there is bleeding. Never attempt to remove foreign objects or debris from a wound.
Fractures
Fractures are shattered bones that can occur as a result of a fall or another type of impact. When this occurs, the affected part should be immobilized and any unnecessary manipulation of the affected area avoided.
Remember that if a fracture is not immobilized, it can cut a blood vessel or a nerve, resulting in far more serious damage. Immobilize the damaged part and send the patient as soon as possible to the nearest hospital or medical facility.
Run cool water over the burned area for up to 15 minutes for mild to moderate burns (avoid using ice). Then, wrap the injured region with clean gauze to prevent infection and pain from air contact.
If the burn is severe (affecting more than two layers of skin or covers a significant region, elevate it and cover it with a clean, moist, sterile bandage or cloth. Never attempt to remove burnt garments. Immediately summon emergency professionals to the scene.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
When the median nerve, which travels from the forearm to the palm of the hand, is pushed or squeezed at the wrist, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) arises. It is typically caused by a wrist injury that creates swelling, such as a sprain or fracture.
CTS is especially common in employees who routinely use vibrating hand tools or who use a computer mouse for extended periods of time.
If you suspect CTS, give the injured worker an analgesic, muscle relaxant, or anti-inflammatory medication and tell them to rest.
Amputations
Bleeding is the most immediate worry for an amputation. Applying pressure is the most effective approach to reduce bleeding. If that fails, a tourniquet may be employed. Because of the potential for problems, this should only be used by someone with first aid training and only in circumstances where the bleeding cannot be stopped by more simple measures.
Corrosion and chemical burns
A chemical burn or corrosion can occur when the skin is exposed to a chemical such as hydrochloric or sulfuric acid.
The initial step in treating a chemical burn is to remove as much of the chemical as possible from the skin by washing it with water or, if the chemical is a dry powder, brushing it off and removing contaminated clothing and jewelry. To ease discomfort, use a damp, cool compress and then cover the affected area with a clean sheet or towel to avoid infection and contact with the air.
Contact emergency professionals promptly if the sufferer exhibits any bodily reaction to the injury.