Chapter 2 Action at an Emergency Bystander Actions

Chapter 2 Action at an Emergency

Bystander Actions • The bystander is a vital link between EMS and the victim.

Ordinary Bystanders • Ordinary bystanders are less likely to help because: • Lack of knowledge • Confusion about what is an emergency • Characteristics of the emergency

What Should Be Done? • • • Recognize the emergency. Decide to help. Call 9 -1 -1, if EMS is needed. Check the victim. Give first aid.

Recognize the Emergency • Four factors in noticing that something is wrong: • Severity • Physical distance • Relationship • Time exposed

Decide to Help • Decide to help before you encounter an emergency. • Develop a helping attitude.

Call 9 -1 -1 • For serious situations, call EMS right away. • To receive emergency assistance, dial 9 -1 -1 in most communities. • It is always best to err on the side of caution.

Check the Victim • Decide if life-threatening conditions exist. • Decide what kind of help a victim needs.

Give First Aid • Often the most critical life support measures are effective only if started immediately. • Person is usually a layperson.

Seeking Medical Care • Knowing when to call 9 -1 -1 is important. • Always best to err on the side of caution. • If a serious situation occurs, call 9 -1 -1 first.

How to Call EMS • Dispatcher will ask for: • Your name and phone number • Victim’s location • What happened? • Number of victims and any special conditions • Victim’s condition • Do not hang up unless the dispatcher tells you to • May advise you how to provide care

Rescuer Reactions • Sight of blood and cries of victims can be upsetting • More than one rescuer has felt nauseated, weak, or fainted • Desensitize yourself before and during the emergency • Postcare reactions can occur

Scene Size-Up • In ten seconds, look for: • Hazards • Cause of the injury or illness • Number of victims

Disease Precautions • First aiders must understand the risks from infectious diseases • Range from mild to life threatening • Infectious disease can be transmitted from one person to another. • Also known as communicable diseases

Universal Precautions • Developed by the CDC • Assume that all blood and certain body fluids pose a risk for transmission of infectious diseases • Follow body substance isolation (BSI) techniques • Provides additional protection

Handwashing • One of the simplest and effective way to control disease transmission • Wash hands before and after every victim contact • Even if you are wearing gloves

Personal Protective Equipment • Includes: • Medical exam gloves • Mouth-to-barrier devices • Eye protection • Gowns

Cleaning Up After An Emergency • Wear heavier gloves. • If trained, use absorbent barriers. • Clean the spill area with soap and water. • Disinfect with bleach. • Discard contaminated materials properly.

Disease of Special Concern • • • HIV Hepatitis B Hepatitis C Tuberculosis SARS

Death and Dying • Few incidents that involve more emotional stress. • Seeing death and dying are the unfortunate parts of providing emergency care.

The Dying Victim • • • Avoid negative statements. Assure the victim you will locate family. Allow for some hope. Use a gentle tone of voice. Let the victim know that everything that can be done to help will be done.

The Stages of Grieving • • • Denial Anger Bargaining Depression Acceptance

Dealing with Survivors • Allow survivors to grieve. • Provide simple, honest, clear information. • Offer support and comfort through your words and presence. • Use a gentle tone of voice.