No One Is Immune To Health Emergencies
There is nothing wrong with being prepared to deal with a health emergency, especially among families. Tens of thousands of deaths occur every year due to a lack of immediate first aid or appropriate action from nearby individuals. Most medical emergencies happen at home, yet statistics show that only 18% of Americans are up to date with first aid. If loved ones can identify a health concern and act immediately, proper care can be provided before emergency response teams arrive. Of course, every ailment or issue does not necessarily require emergency first aid. There are 4 specific circumstances, however, every family should be prepared for. Staying prepared is especially important if a family member has a known health issue or chronic disease.
1. Prep for cardiac emergencies
Heart attacks are the most common medical emergencies that individuals are unprepared for. Statistics show that 73% occur at home, and for every minute someone does not receive first aid, the chances of death increase significantly. Someone who collapses and is unconscious with no pulse may be having a cardiac arrest. Signs of a heart attack include severe chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and arm pain. Families should prepare for cardiac incidents via first aid training to identify possible signs and symptoms. Immediate actions include calling 911 and performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on an unresponsive individual with no pulse. Families can invest in an automated external defibrillator (AED) device or learn to use an AED when available. Keep aspirin available for potential heart attack symptoms and make sure the entire family learns the signs of a cardiac event.
2. Prep for severe allergic reactions
Allergic reactions are common responses to food or other irritants. While most cases are mild and resolvable with over-the-counter medications, some are more severe and life-threatening. Individuals undergoing anaphylaxis, a severe reaction where the body goes into shock, require immediate attention. Most symptoms occur immediately after consuming or encountering an allergen. Be prepared by looking for signs such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, rapid pulse, dizziness, severe full-body rash, or gastrointestinal symptoms. Families can create a checklist and protocol for severe allergies. Common strategies include calling 911 or a trusted emergency number, while using an epinephrine auto-injector if available. Remove the allergen and place the individual in a safe space to lie down, feet elevated. Should breathing stop, be prepared to perform CPR. Families should be aware of each other’s allergies and keep auto-injectors readily available. Everyone in the family should know how to use the device. Have an allergy plan to prepare for severe allergic reactions.
3. Prep for fractures and severe bleeding
Falls, accidents, and collisions with others, especially athletes, are common occurrences. Most individuals can provide support for minor cuts, bruises, and sprains. More severe injuries, including significant bleeding, fractures, deep cuts, and puncture wounds, need immediate medical attention. Any delays can lead to extensive blood loss, fractures, and infections. Families should learn how to deal with these injuries, including wound care and basic first aid. Some individuals try the first aid for severe trauma (FAST) while knowing the fastest route to emergency care. Have a list of emergency contact numbers and invest in a first aid kit that everyone at home knows how to use, including children.
4. Prep for choking situations
A situation where someone is choking is scary for everyone involved. A lack of immediate action and first aid, however, can lead to a life-threatening occurrence. Choking is especially common among children, so parents should know simple first aid techniques. Even older children should be prepared to help siblings. Look for code red signs, like difficulty breathing, an inability to speak or cough, paleness, or blue lips and face. Children over 1 year can receive abdominal thrusts, also called the Heimlich maneuver. Infants under 1 year require back blows and chest thrusts. For choking situations, preparation and prevention go hand in hand. Keep small objects from young children while providing food in appropriate sizes and portions. In any emergency, call 911 while continuing treatment until the obstruction is cleared or the individual is unconscious.
Staying ready can save a life
Knowing that a lack of information caused the injury or death of a loved one can be devastating. Medical emergencies can happen at any time, without warning, and especially among individuals with known health conditions. The most common involve cardiac incidents, allergic reactions, trauma, and choking. Create an emergency action plan with first aid kits, medical equipment, health insurance details, and contact numbers. Family first aid training ensures everyone is up-to-date on CPR, AED use, and wound care. The family that is prepared is more confident when emergencies arise, potentially saving lives.
