First Aid

Notes
2

First Aid Notes

First published by Australian Red Cross in 1975 as First Aid Notes.

Reprinted 1976-1999 (34 times)

Reprinted 2001-2002 (3 times) Reprinted with revisions
2002 Reprinted with revisions 2003 Reprinted with revisions
2004 Reprinted with revisions 2006 Reprinted with revisions
2011 Reprinted with revisions 2013 Reprinted with revisions
2014 Reprinted with revisions 2015 Reprinted with revisions
2016 Reprinted with revisions 2017 2021 Reprinted with revisions
2021 2022 Reprinted with revisions 2022

ISBN 0 909896 73 9
Copyright © 2022 Australian Red Cross

Important notice and disclaimer

These Notes have been published by Australian Red Cross to stimulate an interest
in first aid within the community. They are not intended to amount to, or able to be
reasonably relied upon as, medical or any other form of specialist advice applicable in
the circumstances of a particular event, injury or condition. The treatments and practices
outlined described or displayed herein are current at the time of publishing and reflect
the regimes of numerous professional bodies, associations or qualified groups. To the
extent permitted by law, Australian Red Cross accepts no liability arising from any breach
of contract or statutory duty, or any negligent act or omission occasioned by it or any
other party in relation to these Notes. By using, referring to or suffering the use of or
reference to these Notes, you indicate your assent to the foregoing notice and disclaimer
and your acceptance of the risks involved.
 3

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

Learn with Red Cross
First Aid and
Mental Health
As the world’s largest provider of First Aid training, Red Cross is
committed to improving the health, safety and wellbeing of the
community through the delivery of First Aid and Mental health
training and provision of safety related products.

Through a network of skilled trainers and subject matter

experts, Red Cross Training Services has the capacity to
deliver effective training to metropolitan, regional and
geographically remote locations in every state and territory.

For more information

T. 1800 733 276
E. learn@redcross.org.au
W. redcross.org.au/firstaid

Useful numbers

Ambulance 000

Poisons 13 11 26

First aid kits & training

1800 733 276
4
Contents

Assessment of an Foreign objects in the

emergency 8 eye, ear or nose 30
Anaphylaxis 22 Fractures 48
Asthma 21 Head injury 42
Bandages 52 Heart attack 28
Basic life support flow chart 17 Hypothermia (cold) 47
Bites and stings 33 Hyperthermia (heat) 45
Bleeding 23 Legal considerations 6
Burns and scalds 29 Poisons 32
Calling for help 12 Seizures 39
Cardiopulmonary Shock 27
Resuscitation (CPR) 15
Spinal injuries 50
Choking 19
Sprains 51
Chain of survival 6
Strains 50
Diabetes 44
Stroke 41
Dislocations 51
Unconsciousness 18
Electric shock 31
Fainting 43
First aid kits 55
First aid methods 7
First aid, objectives of 5
First aid, what is? 5
What is first aid? 5

First Aid is help given in the case of an accident or sudden illness before

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

medical aid arrives.
Medical Aid usually follows First Aid and is given by a doctor or
ambulance officer either at the accident scene or at a hospital.

Objectives of first aid

To preserve life
• Ensure that a person has and maintains a clear airway and is
breathing normally (at 10-20 breaths per minute). The unconscious
casualty has priority as they are unable to protect their airway.
• Stop any bleeding
• Treat all other injuries in order of importance
• Call 000 for an ambulance / medical assistance as soon as possible

To prevent further injury

• Never move a casualty unless there is obvious danger to that person
• When moving an injured person, be gentle to avoid further injury

To promote recovery
• Comfort and reassure the person
• Give protection from the weather

To send for medical aid

• Always stay with the person while waiting for help
6
Chain of survival
The chain of survival is a series of steps (forming a virtual “chain”)
that, followed promptly, give the best chance of survival from cardiac
arrest (Sudden, unexpected loss of heart function, breathing and
consciousness.)

Early access Early CPR Early Early

defibrillation advanced
care

Legal considerations
People are sometimes afraid that they may make mistakes when they
give first aid and cause harm to the person. They might also worry that a
mistake may lead to a legal problem such as being sued.
Be reassured that in the eyes of the law, first aiders are not expected to
be perfect. The general legal principle is that the first aider is expected
to act reasonably with a genuine concern for the best interests of the
person and in accordance with their level of knowledge and training.
If you are following this principle, you need not worry about any legal
ramifications.

Don’t forget the four legal considerations

1. Consent
2. Duty of Care
3. Negligence
4. Documentation
First aid methods 7

First aid is based on:

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

History the story of the accident or illness from the casualty or
any bystanders.
Symptoms any sensations described by the casualty, such as pain,
thirst, faintness, etc.
Signs any unusual visual features, such as swelling or change in
the normal colour of the skin, etc.

The emergency action principles

Access Do a primary Do a secondary
and danger survey survey

Assess any DANGER

1. Is the area safe?
• Quickly check for any danger to yourself, the casualty and bystanders
• If there is danger, remove it or move the casualty to safety. If serious
injuries are suspected, drag the casualty by the ankles, arms or
clothing and avoid bending or twisting the body
• If the danger is too great for you to manage, keep clear and call
emergency personnel and advise them of the nature of the danger

2. What happened?
• Look for clues about what caused the emergency, and the extent of
the injuries or condition

3. How many casualties are there?

• You may not see every casualty at first, so look around

4. Can bystanders help?

• Bystanders may be able to tell you what happened, help protect the
scene, call emergency personnel, or provide first aid materials
8
Assess the injured person’s
RESPONSE
1. Check conscious state:
• Speak in a calm positive manner, identify yourself and ask if you
can help

NOTE: Any purposeful response eye-opening, attempting to
speak, purposeful movement indicates consciousness. eye-
opening, attempting to speak, purposeful movement indicates
consciousness. A minor response, such as groaning without eye-
opening, should be managed as if the person is unconscious
• If the casualty responds, check for severe bleeding, begin a
secondary survey and monitor consciousness and vital signs
• If there is no response, speak more loudly and gently squeeze the
casualty’s shoulder, or take hold of a hand and give a command
such as “Tell me your name. Squeeze my hand and let it go” or “Are
you OK?”
• If there is no response, call emergency personnel for help (000) and
immediately check the airway

2. If unconscious, check the airway:

• Open the casualty’s mouth and check for signs that the airway may
be blocked
• If there are signs that the airway might be blocked, turn the person
onto their side in the recovery position and let gravity drain any
solid material such as sand, vomit, blood or broken teeth. If this does
not clear the airway, remove any visible material with your fingers.
(Well-fitting dentures should be left in place as they will help the
rescuer if resuscitation is needed.)
• If there are no signs that the airway might be blocked, leave the
person on their back at this stage
• Open the airway by tilting the casualty’s head backwards. (support
infant’s head in a neutral position)
• Use the chin lift to hold the jaw open and pulled away from the chest 9
• If there does not appear to be any obstructions maintain an open
airway and check their breathing

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

3. Check for normal breathing:
LOOK, LISTEN AND FEEL
• Can you see or feel movement of the lower chest and abdomen?
• Can you hear or feel the escape of air from the victim’s mouth?
• If not breathing normally, position the victim on their back and start
chest compressions (see page )
 ote: Agonal gasping, infrequent breaths, chest or abdominal
N
movement without air movement from the mouth or nose are NOT
considered normal breathing
• If the casualty is breathing, position them on their side in the stable
recovery position, check for severe bleeding and check the airway
and breathing continually until emergency personnel arrive

4. Check for bleeding:

• Check for severe bleeding
• Control bleeding as soon as possible and call for help

Life threatening bleeding has priority

over all other first aid
10
Do a secondary survey
1. Ask the person. (If they are conscious)
• What happened?
• Do you feel pain anywhere?
• Do you have any medical conditions or are you taking any
medication?

2. Check vital signs:

• Changes in breathing
• Changes in consciousness
• Changes in skin appearance and temperature

3. Perform a head-to-toe examination:

• Inspect the entire body for anything abnormal
• Check for Medic Alert or SOS bracelet
Always ask for permission to touch or treat the person. Consent is
implied if the victim is unconscious. Be respectful of the casualty’s
privacy.
Recovery position 11

1. Remove any spectacles before turning the casualty to prevent

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

eye injuries.
2. Kneel beside the casualty and place the casualty’s far arm out at
right angles to the body.
3. Bend the casualty’s nearest arm at the elbow and place across the
chest with the casualty’s fingers close to the far shoulder.
4. Bend the nearest leg up at right angles to the body, keeping the foot
placed on the ground.
5. Roll the casualty onto their side away from you, by gently pushing
on the nearest shoulder as well as the casualty’s bent knee. Ensure
that the bent leg rests on the ground at right angles and have the
other leg straight, where possible.
NOTE: Personal Protective Equipment should be utilised where available,
e.g., disposable gloves, face shields/resuscitation masks.

Recovery position
12
Sending for help
Call 000, ask for ‘ambulance’. Follow operator’s
instructions and be prepared to give information on:
• The exact location with landmarks and cross streets if possible
• Any issues with access
• The number of persons
• The condition of the person(s)
• The details of the person if known
• The caller’s name and number
• Any first aid given

Cardiopulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR)
Respiration is the process of breathing in which oxygen is taken into
the body and carbon dioxide is removed.
Every cell of the body needs a constant supply of oxygen. If the vital
centres of the brain and heart are kept short of oxygen for more than
a few minutes, serious damage may occur. The casualty will become
unconscious, and the breathing will stop. Next the heart stops beating,
and death occurs.
If a casualty is unconscious and not breathing normally it is vital to start
resuscitation immediately.

If the casualty is unconscious (unresponsive) and not

breathing normally:
After the airway has been opened and cleared, and there are no signs
of response the rescuer must immediately commence 30 chest
compressions (in the centre of the chest) at the rate of approximately
100-120 compressions per minute (around 2 compressions a second)
followed by 2 rescue breaths:
• Ensure the person is laying on their back, on a firm, flat surface 13
• Locate the centre of the chest
• For adults, use 2 hands, exerting pressure through the heel of the

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

bottom hand, and depress one third of the depth of the chest.
For children use one or two hands; for infants use two fingers
• For all persons depress one third of the depth of the chest
• Allow full recoil of the chest
• Take a breath and place your widely open mouth over the person’s
open mouth, sealing the nostrils with your cheek or by pinching the
nostrils of the injured person; ensure full head tilt for adult casualty
• Blow to inflate the person’s lungs; if the chest does not rise ensure
correct head tilt, adequate air seal and ventilations. Do not over-
inflate the lungs. Compressions can be delegated to the untrained
bystander, allowing for the trained first aider to administer the
rescue breaths

Mouth to nose method may be used when the

rescuer chooses or when the jaws are tightly clenched or
for infants or small children:
• Close the mouth with the hand supporting the jaw and push the
lips together with the thumb. Take a breath and place your widely
opened mouth over the person’s nose (or mouth and nose in infants)
and blow to inflate the lungs.

Mouth to mask rescue breathing may be used to

avoid mouth to mouth contact by the use of a
resuscitation mask:
• Position yourself at the person’s head and use both hands to
maintain an open airway and to hold the mask in place
• Maintain backward head tilt and chin lift
• Place the narrow end of the mask on the bridge of the nose and
apply firmly to the face
Continued over page.
14 • Inflate the lungs by blowing through the mouthpiece of the mask to
achieve chest movement.
• Remove your mouth from the mask to allow exhalation, turning your
head to the side to listen and feel for the escape of air.

Attach an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) as soon

as possible, if available, and follow the prompts:
• Check AED is charged and turned on
• Expose the chest
• Remove moisture or excessive chest hair prior to the application of
pads but emphasis must be on minimising delays in shock delivery
• Attach the pads
• Follow the prompts

Continue resuscitation until:

• The injured person recovers with signs of life present
• Qualified help arrives and takes over care of the injured person
• An authorised person pronounces that life is extinct
• The first aider is unable to continue, usually due to exhaustion

Remember: Any attempt at resuscitation is better than no attempt. If

you are unwilling or unable to do mouth-to-mouth breathing, perform
continuous chest compressions only. Compressions can also be
delegated to the untrained bystander.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation 15

in special circumstances

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

Resuscitation of the drowning person:
• People should not attempt a water rescue beyond their
swimming ability
• Remove person from water as soon as possible; give rescue
breathing in water if immediate exit is impossible
• Roll injured person onto their side during initial assessment of
airway and breathing, and if vomiting or regurgitation occurs during
resuscitation
• Do not apply pressure to the stomach
• If spinal injury is suspected support the person in the water until
experienced rescue personnel arrive; if not possible, remove gently
from the water maintaining spinal alignment as much as possible

For a person with a stoma:

• If there is a tube in the trachea, always leave it in place to keep open
for breathing and resuscitation
• Ensure the head is in backward tilt
• Place mouth over stoma and give rescue breathing
• If air is escaping from nose or mouth, seal with hand and continue to
breathe through the stoma

Infants (0 to 1 year):
• Ensure infant has a neutral head tilt position
• Use the tips of two fingers to compress the chest
• Puff gently into the infant’s mouth and nose.
• Maintain head in a neutral position
16

Chest compressions

Children (1 to 8 years):
• Full head tilt (as per adults)
• Blow gently into the child’s mouth
• Use the heel of one hand or two hands to compress the chest
Basic life support flow chart 17

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

Check for DANGER

D • Hazards that could cause injury

• Risks to you, others and the victim
• Safety of the scene

R Check for RESPONSE using the talk

and touch technique

S SEND for help - Call 000 if person is

unconscious or badly injured

A Clear (if required) and open AIRWAY

B Check for normal BREATHING using

the look, listen and feel technique

Start CPR

C • 30 compressions: 2 Breaths

• 100 - 120 compressions per minute
• 1/3 depth of the chest

D
Attach AED (as soon as available
and follow its prompts)
AED = Automated External Defibrillator

Continue CPR until qualified personnel arrive or

signs of life return. NO SIGNS OF LIFE = no response
(unconscious), not breathing normally, not moving.
18
Unconsciousness
The brain is the nerve centre of the body. Nerve fibres link the brain
with all parts of the body. During sleep the brain still stays active so
that vital functions, such as breathing and the heartbeat, will continue.
However, if the brain is unable to work properly, the casualty may
become unconscious.
A person is unconscious if there is no response to the spoken word
or reaction to your touch. Unconsciousness may be caused by lack of
oxygen to the brain cells, alcohol, a diabetic coma, a drug overdose, head
injuries, stroke, epilepsy, electric shock and many other emergencies.
Remember: An unconscious person left lying flat may die quickly from
an obstructed airway.

What to do:
• 
Use the ‘talk and touch’ method to ascertain consciousness: ask
them their name, squeeze their shoulder, say “can you hear me?”
Ask them to “squeeze my hand and let go.”
• 
If there is no response, Send for help - call 000 and check airway
and breathing using the Basic Life Support Flow Chart. If the person is
unconscious and not breathing normally, immediately commence CPR.
• 
Check for any severe bleeding and quickly control it.
• 
Perform a secondary survey and check for any other serious injuries.
• 
Do not allow any food or drink to be given to an unconscious victim.
• 
Stay with an unconscious victim until emergency personnel arrive.
Note any changes in condition such as breathing difficulties, poor
colour, restlessness, etc. and report these to emergency personnel
when help arrives.
Choking 19

If a foreign object becomes lodged in the airway, collapse and death

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

may occur rapidly. The risk of choking can be reduced by protecting
babies and small children from small objects such as marbles, peanuts
or buttons. In adults, choking is often caused by inadequate chewing of
food or through attempting to eat during physical activity. The airway
may be partially or totally obstructed.

Signs and symptoms of a partial blockage may include:

• 
Coughing, wheezing or a ‘crowing noise’
• 
Person may complain of something stuck in the throat
• 
Extreme anxiety

The first aid procedure for partial airway obstruction:

• 
Encourage coughing. Do not offer anything to eat or drink to a
coughing or choking person

If the airway is totally obstructed, symptoms and signs may include:

• 
Inability to cough
• 
Inability to talk
• 
Obvious efforts to breathe with no sounds
• 
Holding of throat

The first aid procedure for totally obstructed airway:

• 
Send for help, call 000
• 
Give up to five sharp back blows with the heel of one hand in the
middle of the back between the shoulder blades, checking after
each blow to see if the obstruction is relieved.
• 
If unsuccessful, perform up to five (5) chest thrusts on the same
compression point as CPR, checking between each thrust to see if
the obstruction has been relieved. If the obstruction is not relieved,
continue alternating five (5) back blows with five (5) chest thrusts.
• 
Children and adults can be treated in sitting or standing position.
• 
An infant may be placed in head downward position across the
rescuer’s lap.

If unconscious and not breathing normally, administer CPR.

20

5x

5x
Asthma 21

An asthma attack is caused by spasm or narrowing of the bronchioles

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

(air passages) in the lungs. This causes coughing and noisy, wheezing
respirations. The person may become very distressed because of
difficulty in breathing.

What to do:
Step 1 Stay with the person and sit the person upright; continue
• 
to reassure and access asthma reliever medication.
Step 2 
•  Asthma Action Plan 4 x 4 x 4: Using a puffer or a puffer
and spacer (if a spacer is available) administer one (1) puff
of inhaler followed by four (4) breaths; administer another
puff, then four (4) breaths; another puff, then four (4)
breaths and a final puff, then four (4) breaths
• Step 3 Wait four (4) minutes, to see if the reliever treatment is
effective
Step 4 If there is little or no improvement repeat steps 2 and 3
• 
Step 5 If there is still no improvement, Send for help - call 000.
• 
Continue to repeat steps 2 and 3 while waiting for the
ambulance

4x

Asthma spacer
22
Severe allergic reactions
(anaphylaxis)
Common triggers for the onset of allergic reactions include:
• 
Foods such as nuts, peanuts, eggs, dairy, shellfish, soy and sesame
• 
Venoms such as bee stings, wasp and ant stings
• 
Medications such as penicillin
• 
Others such as latex, herbal medications

Signs of severe allergic reactions are any ONE of the following:

• 
difficulty/noisy breathing
• 
swelling of the tongue
• 
swelling/tightness in throat
• 
difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice
• 
wheeze or persistent cough
• 
persistent dizziness or collapse
• 
pale and floppy (young children)

Care for severe allergic reaction:

1. Lie the person flat. Do NOT allow them to stand or to walk
- If unconscious, place in recovery position
- If breathing is difficult allow them to sit
2. Give adrenaline autoinjector
3. Phone ambulance - 000
4. Phone family/emergency contact
5. 
Further adrenaline doses may be given if no response after 5 minutes
6. 
Transfer person to hospital for at least 4 hours of observation
If in doubt give adrenaline autoinjector. Commence CPR at any time if
person is unresponsive and not breathing normally
Bleeding 23

If too much blood is lost from the body through a wound or injury, the

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

casualty may die. Always stop bleeding promptly.

First aid management:

• 
Apply direct pressure to the bleeding wound using, if available,
disposable gloves or an improvised barrier between your hands
and the wound
• 
Apply a firm pad and bandage using materials from a first aid kit or
improvised materials such as clean linen, tea towel etc
• 
Immobilise injury and restrict movement
• 
Maintain body temperature
• 
Rest the injured area and the person

Apply pressure and immobilise bleeding limb

24 • 
If the bleeding is not controlled by the initial pad, leave it in place
and apply a second, tighter pad over the first.
• 
If there is severe, life-threatening bleeding from a limb, not
controlled by pressure, apply an arterial tourniquet above the
bleeding point, if trained in its use and one is available.
• 
If there is severe, life-threatening bleeding from a wound site not
suitable for tourniquet, or from a limb when a tourniquet is not
available or has failed to stop the bleeding, apply a haemostatic
dressing, if trained in its use and one is available.
• 
For the majority of non life-theatening cases, first aiders should
follow the sequence of DRSABCD, where control of bleeding follows
establishing airway and commencing CPR if required.

Bleeding with embedded objects

Foreign objects such as glass, metal or splinters may be present in a
wound. They should only be removed by a first aider if they are clearly
on the wound surface. If anything is embedded in the wound, leave it in
place and pack dressings around the site before applying pressure.

Bruises
Applying a cold compress (for approximately 20 minutes) for minor
bleeding under the skin can help to ease the pain and reduce the
bleeding. A “black eye” is a bruise that should always be seen by a
doctor because there may be damage to the eye, skull or cheekbone.
Do not apply pressure over a black eye.

Bleeding from the nose

Keep the person sitting up with the head held slightly forward and ask
the person to breathe through the mouth. Squeeze the nostrils below
bridge of the nose together and hold firmly for 10 minutes. Tell the
person not to blow the nose for several hours. If bleeding continues
seek medical advice.
Minor wounds 25
A minor wound is an injury to the skin such as a cut or graze which
sometimes involves underlying soft tissues.

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

What to do:
• 
Stop any bleeding
• 
Wear disposable gloves when cleaning a wound
• 
Clean minor cuts and grazes with saline or tap/bottled water
• 
Apply sterile non adhesive dressing and secure
• 
Dispose of used gloves and soiled dressings in a sealed container
• 
A puncture wound, such as an injury from a nail or a bite from a cat
or dog, may become infected later so seek advice from a doctor

Wound dressings
Dressings are used to cover wounds in order to stop any bleeding,
prevent bacteria from entering the wound and protect the wound from
further damage.
Dressings are often sealed in an airtight wrapper ready for use. When
a sterile dressing is not available, an emergency dressing may be used.
It should be made from any material on hand and be free of fluff: for
example, a clean handkerchief or a towel.

When using a dressing:

• 
Wash your hands before if time permits
• 
Wear disposable gloves when possible
• 
Choose a dressing suitable for the wound being dressed
• 
Secure the dressing in place
• 
Where possible advice the person to seek medical advice for
wound management
26 Internal bleeding
Bleeding from internal injuries after a blow or collision or medical
conditions such as a stomach ulcer can cause serious complications,
permanent damage or even death.
A person with internal bleeding may complain of pain, tenderness and
swelling in the affected area and may be pale, sweaty and feel cold.
Blood may be seen if it is coughed up or vomited, or if it escapes from
the ear, nose or other body opening.

What to do:
• 
Send for help – Call 000
• 
Help the person to lie down if possible and rest in the most
comfortable position
• 
Monitor the person.
• 
Maintain body temperature and reassure the person
• 
If the bleed is minor a cold compress can be used
• 
Closed Bleeding in a Limb
- If there is bruising to a limb and no external bleeding, use
pressure and a cold pack if available.
- If closed bleeding in a limb is causing severe swelling or pain, or
the person is showing signs of shock, send for help - call 000
Do not give any food or fluid
• 
• Do not give any medication or alcohol
• Do not attempt to apply pressure
Shock 27

Shock is caused by a reduced flow of blood through the body.

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

All accidents or cases of sudden illness may rapidly lead to shock.
Death can result from severe shock unless the correct treatment is
started promptly.

Indications of shock:
• 
May feel faint and giddy
• 
Looks very pale
• 
Has cold and clammy skin
• 
Has rapid breathing
• 
May feel sick and may vomit
• 
May be thirsty from loss of body fluids
• 
May become unconscious

What to do:
• 
Lay the person flat
• 
Control any bleeding promptly
• 
Send for help – call 000
• 
Reassure and constantly re-check the person for any change
• 
Treat the cause of shock
• 
Maintain body temperature
• 
Do not give any food or fluid
• If unconscious, manage as per the Basic Life Support Flow Chart
• 
Send for help Call 000
28
Heart attack
A person experiences a heart attack when there is a sudden partial
or complete blockage of one of the coronary arteries that supply the
heart muscle. As a result of the interruption to the blood supply, there
is an immediate risk of life-threatening changes to the heart rhythm. If
not corrected quickly there is also a risk of serious, permanent heart
muscle damage. To reduce the chance of sudden death from heart
attack, urgent medical care is required — “every minute counts”.
Heart attack is different from, but may lead to, cardiac arrest. Cardiac
arrest is cessation of heart action.

What to do:
• 
Stop what they are doing
• 
Stay with the person
• 
Locate closest Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) and bring to
the person
• 
If the person is conscious, assist them into the most comfortable
position. This is generally supported in a half-sitting position. Give
reassurance and loosen tight clothing at the neck and waist
• 
Send for help – Call 000
• 
Ask about medications for angina or other heart-related illness and
assist them to take their medication as directed
• I f the person is not allergic to aspirin, administer 300mg
dissolvable aspirin tablet
• 
If the person is unconscious, check their airway; if necessary, place
them in the recovery position, clear airway of any obstructions and
check for normal breathing. If signs of normal breathing are absent,
commence CPR immediately, attach a defibrillator if available and
follow prompts
Burns and scalds 29

A burn is the damage to skin and other body

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

tissue caused by contact with dry heat. Burns may
be caused by fire, flames, hot metal, electricity or
chemicals. A scald is the damage which follows
contact with wet heat such as boiling water, steam, or hot oil. Burns and
scalds are often serious. Apart from severe pain and shock following the
accident, they may leave permanent scars on the body.

What to do:
• 
If the clothing is on fire use the stop, drop, cover and roll technique
and smother the flames using a non-flammable material such as
towels or blankets
• 
Cool the burned areas quickly with water for at least 20 minutes.
Use the tap, shower, buckets etc. to cool the burn
In electrical burns, cool entry and exit wounds after ensuring the
• 
area is safe
• 
If the clothing is soaked with boiling water or hot oil, carefully
remove the outer clothes before cooling the skin. DO NOT attempt
to remove any clothing that has burnt into the flesh
• 
Cover the burn with a loose and light non-stick dressing, preferably
clean, dry, lint-free (non-fluffy) material e.g., plastic cling wrap
• 
Blisters may appear after a burn or scald and should never be
pricked or broken. Only apply dressing if you have ensured the burn
has been adequately cooled
• 
Never apply a cream or ointment to a burn
• 
Chemicals which have splashed the skin should be washed off
thoroughly for 20 to 30 minutes before a dressing is applied
• 
Chemical burns affecting the eye must be flushed continuously
under running water. The eye is then covered with a clean pad and
the casualty checked by a doctor as soon as possible
• 
When a large area of the body is involved, there will be severe
shock. Avoid over-cooling of the injured person
• 
Unless the injury is very slight, a doctor should check all burns
and scalds
• 
All infants and children should be medically assessed
30
Foreign objects in the eye,
ear or nose
Eye
Great care is needed when a foreign object is present in the eye.
Rough treatment may lead to permanent loss of vision.

What to do:
• 
Inspect the object in the person’s eye
• 
If the object seems to be embedded, call for an ambulance, lie the
person down and cover the injured eye by placing thick pads above
and below the eye or cover with a paper cup
• 
If the object has not embedded into the eye, gently flush the eye with
saline or cool, running water which may dislodge the foreign object

Ear and nose

Efforts to remove a foreign object from the nose or ear may cause
further injury and distress. Reassure the casualty and seek medical
advice promptly.
Electric shock 31

When an accident occurs with electricity, the first aider must

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

remember that it is not safe to touch the casualty until the power has
been turned off.

What to do:
• 
Send for help/call 000
• 
Look for the source of the electricity and turn off at the power point
or switch. It is also wise to remove the plug to make it doubly safe.
Never touch a plug or switch with wet hands!
• 
If you are unable to disconnect the electricity at the power point,
try to switch off the mains supply
• 
If there is a fallen power line, remain clear and send for help - call
000 and advise them of the danger
• 
When the area is safe, check that the casualty is conscious, has
a clear airway and is breathing normally. If not, start resuscitation
at once
• 
If the casualty is breathing, check them for any burns; flush entry
and exit wounds with cool water and cover these with a dry
dressing. Always seek medical advice for electrical burns because
they can lead to serious complications
Remember: Occasionally power cables are knocked down in a car
accident. Never attempt to help a person when power lines are down;
always wait until the electricity supply has been turned off by officials.
Keep well clear of fallen cables because “arcing” of electricity can
occur for up to 6 metres.
32
Poisons
A poison is a substance which is harmful to the body. Poisons may be:
Inhaled, Absorbed, Ingested or Injected.

Seek medical advice for every case of poisoning

When poisoning has occurred or there is doubt as to whether a
substance is poisonous, advice should always be obtained from the
Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 if the person is conscious and
coherent. If the person is not conscious call 000.

Management of a poisoning situation

• 
Avoid/prevent poisoning of the first aider

Decontamination
• 
If the poison is swallowed: wash out their mouth with water. Do not
try to make them vomit
• 
If the poison is inhaled: immediately get the person into fresh air if
safe to do so. Avoid breathing in the fumes
• 
If the poison enters the eye: flood the eye with saline or water from
a running tap or a cup/jug. Continue flushing for 20 to 30 minutes,
holding the eyelids open
• 
If the poison contacts the skin: have the person remove
contaminated clothing, taking care to avoid contact with the poison
• 
If the person is unconscious, place them on one side in the
recovery position and send for help - call 000. If breathing stops,
begin CPR at once if it safe to do so. If poisoning is suspected
wipe area around mouth to remove any possible residue. Send any
evidence of the poison to hospital with the person
• 
If the person is conscious and stable, the first aid treatment is to
contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26

Note: Do not induce vomiting unless advised by health professionals

such as the Poisons Information Centre
Bites and stings 33

Snake bite

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

Many snakes are quite harmless to people; those which are dangerous
will usually only bite to protect themselves. Most bites occur on the
ankle or lower leg, so thick socks, long pants and suitable shoes should
be worn when walking through long grass or scrub. Treat all snakes as
venomous, unless expert opinion is available at the scene.

What to do:
• 
Keep the person at rest, reassured and under observation
• 
Send for help-call 000
• 
Follow basic life support (DRSABCD) as required
• 
If resuscitation is needed it takes precedence over the PIT
• 
If on a limb, apply a broad pressure bandage over the bite as soon
as possible
• 
Elasticised bandages (10-15cm wide) are preferred over crepe
bandages. If neither are available, clothing or other material should
be used. The bandage should be firm and tight, you should be
unable to easily slide a finger between the bandage and the skin.
• 
In order to further restrict lymphatic flow and to assist in
immobilisation of the limb, apply a further pressure bandage,
commencing at the fingers or toes of the bitten limb and extending
upward covering as much of the limb as possible. The bandage
should be applied over existing clothing if possible. The purpose
of this bandage is to further restrict lymphatic flow and assist
immobilisation. (Alternatively, a single bandage may be used to
achieve both pressure on the bite site and immobilisation of the
limb. In this method, the bandage is initially applied to the fingers or
toes and extended up the limb as far as possible including the bite
site).
• 
Splint the limb including joints on either side of the bite, to restrict
limb movement. The splint material can be incorporated under the
layers of the bandage. For the upper limb, use a sling.
34 If only one bandage is available, commence at the extremities and
work upwards including the bite site in the process. Once applied, the
bandage and splint should be kept in place until the person reaches
hospital.
• 
The limb should be immobilised with a splint or sling, as
appropriate. Once applied, the bandage and splint should be kept
in place until the person reaches hospital. Note: mark outside of
bandage where bite site is so hospital staff can find the bite site.
• 
Do not wash venom off the skin as it will assist in identification of
the snake and the decision about which antivenom is required.
• 
The bandage can be applied over existing clothing if the clothing is
not too bulky.

1. K
 eep the person at rest, reassured and 2. Dial 000
under observation

000

3. Commence CPR if necessary 4. If bitten on a limb, apply a

firm bandage on the bite site.
Ensure limb is immobilised
and person remains still
5. Work bandage from the limb extremity upwards, working towards 35
the heart and covering as much limb as possible. If possible apply
a splint to keep the limb immobilised

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

6. Keep person still until ambulance arrives.
36 Spider bite
Funnel-web spiders are highly dangerous and require treatment as
for a snake bite. Once applied, the pressure immobilisation bandage
should be released only in hospital.
A bite from other spiders, such as the red-back, should be treated
with a cold compress. Immediately seek medical advice or transport
to hospital. Avoid direct application of ice to unprotected skin. Seek
medical advice in case further treatment is needed such as in children,
the aged or those persons showing signs of respiratory distress.
1. Bites from highly venomous spiders like the Sydney funnel web
spider should be treated in the same way as a snake bite
2. Bites from other spiders should be treated with a cold compress
and immediate medical attention. Don’t apply ice directly to
unprotected skin

Bee sting
After a bee sting, the barb may be left in the skin. It should be removed
promptly by brushing or scraping sideways; never pull the sting out as
more venom will be injected.
1. Apply an ice compress to the sting site to limit pain and swelling.
2. If there are signs of an allergic reaction, send for help - call 000
and follow first aid for severe allergic reactions.
Marine stings 37
A blue-ringed octopus may appear small and harmless but is really
very dangerous. If touched or provoked, the creature may bite and

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

inject venom. At first there is no pain, and a blood spot may be seen,
but within minutes the person may be unable to breathe. If CPR is given
until the person reaches hospital, complete recovery can usually be
expected. If bitten on a limb, apply a pressure immobilisation bandage
and send for help - call 000.
The Box jellyfish and Irukandji jellyfish may give a fatal sting through
venomous tentacles. If stung, send for help -call 000, and douse with
vinegar and pick off the tentacles manually. If vinegar is not available,
rinse with seawater, remove tentacles and then apply a cold pack.
Observe the person for respiratory distress. If the person is
unconscious and not breathing normally, send for help -call 000 and
commence CPR.
The Blue Bottle jellyfish may give a painful sting through the tentacles.
If stung, carefully remove any tentacles flush with sea water and pour
hot water over the stung area.
Note — The water is to be no hotter than you can stand on yourself
before applying to sting sites on injured person. Seek urgent medical
advice as soon as possible. If person is having difficulty breathing, send
for help - call 000.
Other non-tropical jellyfish stings should be treated by picking off any
tentacles, flushing with seawater, using hot water to ease pain, and
calling 000 if pain persists.
38 Pressure immobilisation technique
The Pressure Immobilisation technique is recommended for the
following bites/stings.
• All Australian snakes, including sea snakes
• Funnel Web Spider, Blue Ringed Octopus, Cone Shell

The Pressure Immobilisation bandage should NOT be used for the

following bites/stings:
• Any other spider bite including Redback
• Jellyfish stings
• Fish stings including stonefish
• Bites or stings from scorpions, centipedes or beetles
Seizures 39

A seizure is a sign of abnormal brain activity, which can be caused by

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

many problems. Up to 10% of the population is likely to experience
a seizure at some time in their life. A seizure many occur when the
normal pattern of electrical activity of the brain is disrupted.
This can cause changes in sensation, awareness and behaviours, or
sometimes convulsions, muscle spasms or loss of consciousness.
Seizures can vary greatly, and most are over in less than five minutes.
Not all seizures are considered epilepsy.
Seizures can involve the entire or part of the body and cause a loss or
marked alteration in consciousness. Some seizures result in life-
threatening problems in airway or breathing, or risk of trauma from
muscle spasms or loss of normal control of posture and movement.
Other seizures may only effect part of the body, and the person may
retain consciousness but may be confused.

Management of a seizure
• If the casualty is unresponsive and not breathing normally,
follow DRSABCD
• If the casualty is unconscious and actively seizing, the first aider
should:
- manage the casualty following DRSABCD
- remove the casualty from danger or remove any harmful
objects which might cause secondary injury to the casualty
- note the time the seizure starts.
- protect the head.
- avoid restraining the casualty during the seizure unless this is
essential to avoid injury.
- lay the casualty down and turn the casualty on the side when
practical.
- maintain an airway.
- reassure the casualty who may be dazed, confused or drowsy.
- send for help-call 000.
- frequently reassess the casualty.
Continued over page.
40 Do not:
• 
Do not force the casualty’s mouth open nor attempt to insert any
object into the mouth.
• 
A seizure in water is a life-threatening situation. If the seizure occurs
in water:
- support the casualty in the water with the head tilted so the
face is out of the water.
- remove the casualty from the water as soon it is safe to do so.
- send for help - call 000.
- if the casualty is unresponsive and not breathing normally,
follow DRSABCD.

Febrile (feverish) convulsions

Febrile convulsions are associated with fever and usually resolve
without treatment. They occur in approximately 3% of children at
some stage between the age of six months and six years. Children
who suffer from a febrile convulsion are not at increased risk of
epilepsy as a result of experiencing febrile convulsions. Convulsions in
babies or young children are often caused by feverish illness. As their
temperature falls, the convulsions will usually stop. Place the child or
infant on a soft surface and lay them on their back or side once the
convulsions stop. However, always ask the advice of a doctor as the
convulsions may return when the temperature rises again.
Stroke 41

A stroke is caused by bleeding or a blood clot in the brain. Part of the

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

brain loses its blood supply. The casualty may have a severe headache,
followed by muscle weakness or paralysis down one side of the body.
They may find it hard to speak or swallow. In a severe stroke, the victim
becomes unconscious.

What to do:
• 
If the person is fully conscious, help them into the lying or a half-
position at total rest with the head and shoulders slightly raised.
Reassure the person and send for help - call 000 .
• 
If the person is unconscious, turn them on to the stable recovery
position injured/paralysed side down and send for help - call 000.
• DO NOT give anything to eat or drink

To recognise the signs of STROKE, think FAST:

F Face Ask the person to smile. Is one side of the face
paralysed/ drooping?
A Arms 
Ask the person to raise both arms. Do both arms come
up together?
S Speech 
Ask the person to speak. Are the words forced or slurred?
T Time 
If the answer to any of these questions is yes send for
help - call 000
42
Head injury
A blow to the head may cause an injury to the scalp, skull or brain;
sometimes all three areas are damaged simultaneously.
An injury in which the brain is shaken inside the skull is known as
concussion. In this condition, the casualty may have some loss of
memory for events before and after the injury. The casualty can
be faint, giddy, nauseated and complain of blurred vision. A severe
headache may develop after the initial injury, and the victim may
become drowsy or irritable.
Another form of head injury is cerebral compression in which bleeding
or swelling within the skull presses against the brain. This results in a
more gradual deterioration of conscious state. Whether concussion or
compression, head injuries are managed the same way.
When in doubt as to the severity of any blow to the head, send for help
- call 000.

What to do:
Send for help – call 000 if there has been a loss of consciousness
• 
or altered consciousness at any time, no matter how brief.
• 
If there is any external bleeding apply direct pressure to stem
the bleed.
• 
If the skull appears to be damaged apply pressure around the injury.
• 
If a clear or bloodstained fluid is seen leaking from the ear or nose,
allow it to drain freely on to a clean pad. An unconscious person
with this condition should be turned on to one side, lying with the
affected side downwards. Avoid moving the person’s neck and spine.
• 
If the casualty has any loss of consciousness, even if only for a
minute, send for help - call 000.
• 
Reassure the casualty who has loss of memory of events around
the time of injury. The casualty may ask, “Where am I?” or “What
happened?” and may need frequent reassurance.
• 
Keep the casualty lying down (recovery position if unconscious and
breathing) and make frequent checks of pulse; breathing;
 skin colour, size and reaction of pupils; spoken response; mental 43
state, etc. until the ambulance has arrived.
• 
If the casualty is alert and fully conscious, continue to observe
them for any deterioration.

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

• 
A return of unconsciousness, after apparent recovery, is a serious
sign which requires urgent medical attention.

Remember: A person who has sustained a head injury, whether or not

there has been loss of consciousness or altered consciousness, should
be assessed by a health care professional.

Fainting
Fainting may be caused by a fall in blood pressure, dehydration,
standing still and having blood pooling in the legs, standing suddenly
from a sitting position or bad news or nervous excitement. The victim
looks shocked, feels faint and giddy, and may collapse.

What to do:
• 
If the person does not respond, place them into the recovery
position (as per the unconscious person).
• 
If the person has become responsive, lay them down for a few
moments until fully conscious.
• 
Loosen any tight clothing at the neck and waist.
• 
Do not give food or drink until the casualty has recovered fully.
44
Diabetes
The pancreas produces insulin which is essential to the metabolism
of sugar and fats. A person with diabetes may either cease producing
insulin or not effectively be able to use insulin. Some diabetics require
regular insulin injections and will need to monitor their diet. Sometimes
a person with diabetes develops an imbalance between the insulin and
blood sugar levels.

High blood sugar (Hyperglycaemia)

If there is too much sugar in the blood due to lack of insulin, the person
can become drowsy and thirsty, the breath may smell of acetone (as
in nail varnish remover), and the skin can become hot and dry. If this
happens, encourage the person to drink fluids, and advise them to
seek medical help. The signs of low and high blood sugar can be easily
confused. Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference without a device
that measures their blood sugar. A low sugar state is more likely to present
as an emergency than a high sugar state and develops more quickly.

Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Sometimes the blood sugar level drops too low. This may be caused by
delaying or missing a meal, not eating enough carbohydrate, strenuous
activity, alcohol or too much insulin.
The skin can become pale, and the person can become giddy and weak.
There can also be profuse sweating and confusion. The person may
become irrational with slurred speech before becoming unconscious.

What to do:
• 
If the person is conscious, give them a sugary drink or fruit juice
(approx. 200 mls) OR jellybeans (15-20) OR honey or sugar (3
teaspoons).
• 
If the person has high blood sugar and you give them more sugar
it will not improve the state however will not worsen it either. When
your blood sugar is very high it tends to ‘plateau’ even if you have
more sugar.
• 
If the person has low blood sugar (which is more likely) they should 45
soon recover enough to then have a small meal such as a sandwich.
Medical advice should be sought.
When in doubt as to whether the casualty has too high or too low blood

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

sugar levels, treat as though they are too low.

Heat induced illness

(Hyperthermia)
Mild elevation in body temperature is normally controlled with
sweating, which allows cooling by evaporation. Once the individual
becomes too dehydrated to sweat, body temperature may rise rapidly
and dramatically.

Factors that may contribute to heat induced illness

• 
Excessive physical exertion
• 
Hot climatic conditions with high humidity
• 
In adequate fluid intake
• 
Persons that are overweight of obese
• 
Unsuitable environments (e.g. unventilated hot buildings, parked cars)
• 
Wearing unsuitably heave clothing in hot days

Indicators of heat induced illness

• 
High body temperature
• 
Dizziness and faintness
• 
Nausea vomiting or diarrhea
• 
Pale or red-hot dry skin
• 
Poor muscle control
• 
Decrease in levels of consciousness

What to do:
• 
Help the person to rest in a cool and shaded area.
• 
Loosen and remove excessive clothing.
• 
Call 000 if the person does not improve
46 Persons over 5 (while waiting for the ambulance)
• 
Immerse the whole body in cold water (if bath available)
• 
Wet the person with cold or cool water
• 
Apply ice packs to the groin, armpits, facial checks, palms and soles
• 
Repeatedly moisten the skin with a moist cloth or spray

Persons under 5
• 
Cool in a tepid (luke-warm) bath, sponging frequently if
a bath is available
• 
Repeatedly moisten in with a moist cloth or spray
If the person is fully conscious and can swallow give cool or cold water
to sip. A 3-8% carbohydrate electrolyte fluid (sports drink). If available,
may be provided to sip.
Cold related illness (Hypothermia) 47

In hypothermia, the entire body cools when its warming mechanisms

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

fail. The victim will die if their body temperature falls too low (e.g.,
below 27ºC). Hypothermia can often be caused by exposure to the
cold environment. Trauma (such as severe injury), illness and altered
consciousness can also cause hypothermia. Signs of mild hypothermia
can include shivering, cool skin and confusion. Where severe, signs can
be a progression of these symptoms with a lack of responsiveness, stiff
body and muscles with a very slow pulse.
What to do:
• 
Send for help – call 000.
• 
If the person is unconscious, follow basic support flow chart
(DRSABCD).
• 
Place the person at rest in the nearest shelter with protection from
the cold, wind and rain.
• 
Remove any wet clothing and dry the person.
• 
Wrap the person in additional clothing, blankets or newspaper, to
prevent loss of body heat. Use a reflective foil blanket if available.
• 
If the person is fully conscious, give warm drinks.
• 
If some distance from medical aid and the person is no longer
shivering or has a core temperature of less than 35*C, try to warm
the person by huddling together or sharing a sleeping bag.
• 
Cautiously apply warm water bottles or other heat sources to the
groin, armpits and trunk. Wrap these in a blanket, towel or other
barrier to avoid burning the skin.
What not to do:
• 
Massage or rubbing the affected area.
• 
Give alcohol.
• 
Expose the victim to excessive heat such as a fire or gas heater.
48
Fractures
The skeleton is the bony framework which:
• 
Protects the important parts of the body
• 
Gives shape and firmness
• 
Allows the body to move
Where two or more bones meet, a joint is formed. Muscles work with
the bones and joints to enable us to move freely.
A cracked or broken bone is called a fracture. It is often hard to tell
whether or not a bone is broken. When there is doubt, the injury must
be treated as a fracture.

Types of fractures
Closed fracture: A bone is broken but the skin is undamaged.
Open fracture: A wound is present over the broken bone.
Complicated fracture: A broken bone which has damaged a
neighbouring organ, e.g., lung damage from fractured ribs, or brain
damage from a skull fracture.

How to recognise a fracture

• 
Pain at, or near, the injury.
• 
Swelling, with bruising later.
• 
Loss of power or function of the injured part.
• 
Deformity or change in shape compared with the uninjured limb.
• 
Some degree of shock may be present.
What to do:
• 
Support the injured part in a position the person finds comfortable.
Use available material to pack around the area to allow the person
to relax the muscles.
• 
Do not apply direct pressure over the fracture site.
• 
If the bone is protruding apply pressure around the injury site to
stem bleeding.
• 
Seek medical aid promptly as special treatment may be needed.
• 
If in a remote area and medical aid is delayed or unavailable, more 49
formal immobilisation techniques may be used as follows.

Fractures of the upper limbs

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

• 
Support the arm in the most comfortable position using padding
and an appropriate sling.
• 
A rolled or folded newspaper may be used to give additional
support to a broken forearm or wrist.
• 
Fractures near the elbow should be supported in the most
comfortable position without moving the joint.

Fractures of the lower limbs

• 
The injured limb should be bandaged to the uninjured limb to
provide support.
• 
Use generous padding between the legs and apply bandages
around the ankles and knees.
• 
If there is likely to be a delay in getting ambulance assistance, apply
additional bandages above and below the injury.
• 
All bandages are knotted on the uninjured side.
50
Spinal injuries
Accidents which cause damage to the spine may lead to loss of
function in some parts of the body. Spinal injuries, such as those
received from diving into shallow water or being thrown from a car,
require great care so as to avoid damage to the spinal cord.
A conscious victim may have severe back pain or loss of feeling or
power below the injured area. The victim must be treated with caution
and moved only if in danger of further injury. Assist / encourage the
person to keep their head and neck still.
An unconscious breathing person thought likely to have a spinal injury
should be turned onto one side to protect the airway using the utmost
care. Several helpers could be used if available, to support the head,
neck and spine for this procedure to be performed safely.

What to do:
• 
call 000
• 
try not to move the spine, keep it immobilised if possible
•  O NOT move the person except when necessary to remove them
D
from danger or to protect the airway of an unconscious casualty
• 
reassure the casualty
• 
treat other injuries as appropriate
An awareness of potential spinal injury and careful victim handling, with
attention to spinal alignment, is the key to harm minimisation.
NOTE: Airway management takes precedence over suspected
spinal injury.

Strains
A strain is caused by an overstretched muscle or tendon. Swelling
may not occur, but the person may complain of pain and loss of power
in the injured area. Treat as for a sprain using rest, ice, compression,
elevation and referral (RICER).
Sprains 51

When ligaments around a joint are overstretched or torn, the injury

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

is called a sprain. The injured joint becomes swollen and painful, and
prompt treatment is required. If you are unsure of the diagnosis, treat
the injury as a fracture. If you do not suspect a fracture, manage the
sprain by using rest, ice, compression, elevation and referral (RICER).

What to do:
• Rest: Place the victim in the most comfortable position.
Ice: Apply a cold compress or an ice pack over the bandage for no
• 
longer than 20 minutes every two hours for the first 48 to 72 hours
Avoid using heat for 48 to 72 hours.
Compression: Support the joint with a firm bandage.
• 
Elevation: Raise the injured part to reduce the swelling.
• 
• Referral: for medical assessment

Dislocations
Following a sudden, unnatural movement, bones within a joint may
become dislocated. Severe pain, deformity and swelling are common,
with loss of power or function of the injured area. In addition, there
may be a fracture in, or around, the joint. Never attempt to correct the
dislocation yourself.

What to do:
• 
Place the person in the most comfortable position.
• 
Treat dislocation as per fracture management.
• 
Give support to the injured part.
• 
Seek urgent medical aid.
52
Bandages
In first aid, bandages are generally triangular and of strong cotton
fabric. They are made from a square of material which is at least one
metre long on each side, and then cut in half diagonally.

A triangular bandage may be used in several ways:

• 
In the form of a sling to support an injured arm.
• 
Folded into a broad bandage to cover splints or dressings over the
larger parts of the body.
• 
Folded into a narrow bandage to cover small wound dressings.
• 
Folded into a firm pad to control bleeding.
Remember: When tying a triangular bandage, always use a reef knot as
this lies flat and cannot slip after fastening.
The reef knot Collar and cuff 53

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

The arm sling Knee or elbow bandage

Bandage for the scalp

54 Bandage for the hand

Bandage for the foot

First aid kits and Automated 55

External Defibrillators (AED)

Australian Red Cross First Aid Notes

Red Cross has a specialised workplace first aid kits which are all
in keeping with the ‘First aid’ code of practice recommended list
of products alongside a wide variety of AEDs. We offer onsite kit
restocking and AED maintenance programs nationally to compliment
our training services.
Offering fully compliant Workplace First Aid Kits, as well as First Aid Kits
for home, car, sports, snake bite, travel and everything between.

shop.redcross.org.au/first-aid-products
1800 733 276