First Aid - Could You Help?

[Peaspeculiars]

I'm sure it's been said before on here, but if you don't already know at least some basic first aid, please take a look at the link to the British Red Cross Below:
http://www.redcross.org.uk/en/What-we-do/First-aid/Everyday-First-Aid

Was at the scene of a very nasty pedestrian vs car accident this morning and was glad that I knew the basics until the paramedics arrived.

Cheers
Peas

[woofgang]

I think its not compulsory to carry a fist aid kit in your car in the UK

[Dizmo]

woofgang: no law of carrying a first aid kit unless you are running a business from said vehicle. Either way if you're running a business you require one anyway.

[Peaspeculiars]

It's not compulsory Woofgang, but I think I'll get one after today to go in the boot. Luckily I had a blanket in the back to keep him warm.

I'm not normally good with blood either, but you just get on with it I guess and think about it after. I was shaking all the way to work so had a sweet tea and 5 mins to myself.

[jourdain2]

Sorry, forgot that not everyone knows that I currently live in France. Coming home early next year though and will keep 1st Aid Kit in car :)

[Dizmo]

Peaspeculiars: There are things that you can't deal with, even at the trained level I'm at. I'm legally allowed to use tourniquets because of my training however they aren't much use if you aren't quick enough or can't stem multiple CAT bleeds (loss of both limbs etc).

[Peaspeculiars]

Diz, I seriously hope I never have to deal with anything that bad :-( but all you can do is try.

(hope the dogs are all ok x)

[DTCwordfan]

You okay, peas?It can be a shock for you as well.....

[Dizmo]

Peas, the dogs are tip top and ready for what looks like another round of haggis! I don't envy them there.

[Peaspeculiars]

yep, i'm fine DT, thanks - the daft thing is, I'm wondering if he's ok - I said his name so many times this morning (his student bus pass was on the floor) but I can't even remember it now to check.

(Diz, I saw that post about the haggis, they must be the best fed hounds in britain :-)

[tonyav]

Well done, Peas. I did a first aid course a long long time ago ( aged 19 ) I think I may need a refresher course now.

[pixie373]

Yes, but well done :-) xxx

[-Talbot-]

Dizmo
Peaspeculiars: There are things that you can't deal with, even at the trained level I'm at. I'm legally allowed to use tourniquets because of my training


I had no idea it was illegal.

[Dizmo]

-Talbot-: Maybe the term illegal was the wrong word. It's not a practice allowed by anyone trained at First Aid at Work level. Not knowing the correct procedure and release times could result in a loss of limb. It also need to be documented correctly and timings have to be right when releasing and re-tightening.

First responders for Saint Johns Ambulance Service are not allowed to use them either. My mother is a trained first responder for SJAS and is not allowed to tourniquet.

[Dizmo]

If you are a standard first aider (FAAW) and you attempt to tourniquet and the person looses a limb (due to your incompetence) then you might find yourself looking at getting sued.

The same goes for inserting cannulas, also not allowed unless you hold a MIRA qualification and deem it necessary. Not something that would be required in the UK unless under certain circumstances such as being out in the sticks and dealing with someone who is in shock or requires fluid. Even then you have to contact a physician (doctor) for permission to set up a line and give I.V fluids.

[Baldric]

In my previous existence, I did learn a little 'First Aid' and did a number of Courses over the years I was there, never did Cannulas (OH has done quite a few) but Tourniquets were not unknown in the field.

[anneasquith]

dizmo, who apart from emergency services would have the equipment to insert an I/v cannula and fluids ?

[Dizmo]

I do to start with. I don't have fluids but I have everything else. I have a special first aid kit that carries 18gauge cannulas, syringes and starter kits.

[Dizmo]

Someone who might me in a group going into the desert may carry such equipment. I have it purely for CP work. Not much requirement in this country but I like to have it, non the less.

[anneasquith]

what certificate do you have that allows you to carry I/v equipment. ? and what use it is without fluids ?

[Dizmo]

I don't carry IV equipment, I have IV equipment. I wouldn't carry it without fluids but carrying fluids is subject to authorisation and even then I'd have to call a doctor for authorisation to give blood or sodium chloride. MIRA - medicines in remote areas. Just google the MIRA qualification.