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FIRST AID
Here at medGambia we are strong believers in the role of prevention. Thus we will start this topic by elaborating on the common causes of household accidents and ways of preventing them.
Cuts and Lacerations
• If you’re working in a kitchen for example, it’s good to clear your work space by removing all glass objects and most importantly to concentrate on what you’re doing (e.g. chopping vegetables).
• If you’re working with household tools, always wear protective clothing where applicable and once again, concentrate on what you’re doing.
Burns
Burns are a common cause of household accidents, and the resulting trauma is of immense physical, emotional and sometimes financial proportions. Simple measures can help to prevent burns:
• Keep children away from cooking pots (lock the kitchen door if you have to)
• If you use a gas stove, you can store the gas cylinder outside the house if possible.
• Mount burning candles on metal stands only, and keep them away from curtains and other flammable material.
Other Tips
• Keep chemicals like kerosene, caustic soda and acids out of reach (of children) by storing them on top shelves in restricted areas of the house.
Dealing with Emergencies
Cuts and lacerations
1. Stop bleeding by applying pressure using a clean cloth. Raising the affected part above the level of the heart will also help to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding does not stop in about 15 minutes then report to the nearest health facility.
2. Once the bleeding stops, clean the affected part with warm water, soap and disinfectant (e.g. Dettol or Savlon). If the bleeding starts again, repeat step (1) above.
3. Small wounds do not need suturing; large lacerations will need to be sutured at a health facility.
4. Cover small wounds with a clean bandage and change dressing daily while looking out for signs of infection (pain, discharge from the wound, fever)
5. If the cut or laceration was caused by an unclean sharp object, you will need a tetanus booster from a health facility.
Burns
1. The most important fact in the initial management of burns is to ensure that the victims and other people at risk are moved to safety.
2. The burning process must then be stopped if still in progress.
3. Call for help.
4. Cool the burnt area under running water.
5. People with significant areas of burns need to be taken to hospital as soon as possible.
6. Burns involving the face, hands, feet and private parts (including the breasts) need to be managed at a health facility.
7. Minor burns can be treated with ointments, painkillers can be given at home in this case.
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