First Aid – Do you know what to do?
Hello everyone,
This month, all the staff at Medipod have completed their Level 3 First Aid Training certificate this month. Apart from learning essential first aid techniques, we were also made aware of some vital information that can be quickly and easily downloaded onto our mobile phones. We felt it was so important that we wanted to dedicate this blog to it.
Do you know what the Emergency Call button is for on your mobile phone?
It is an easy way for emergency services to access your named contact and medical information if you have an accident, particularly if you are incapacitated. They will be able to see immediately your height, weight, medication, and allergies. These are all crucial when administering treatment in an emergency. It takes the guesswork out and could help you receive emergency treatment faster. If set up correctly, it may save valuable minutes.
How do we input this information on our mobile phone?
Follow these simple steps for Android and iPhone:
- Open the “Health” or “Emergency” app in your phone settings.
- Find the option to enter your medical information and emergency contacts.
- Save the information, ensuring your Emergency Call button can access it when needed.
What is the “What 3 Words” app?
You may have heard about this app, but did you know this is the one emergency services use to pinpoint your location? The “What 3 Words” app is accepted by 85% of emergency services in this country and abroad. It’s also used by many other organizations that need to know your exact position, such as car recovery companies, delivery services, or even friends meeting up.
The app has divided the entire world into 3-meter squares, and each square is assigned a unique identifier made up of three random words. When you share these three words, your precise location can be found. This can be a life-saving tool, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar area or out for a walk.
How do I download the What 3 Words app?
- On an Android or iPhone, search for What 3 Words. It’s a free app.
- Install and then open the app.
- It’s easy to use—enter your current location or type in the location you’re trying to find.
Essential First Aid Tips
It’s important to know some basic first aid to respond effectively in case of an emergency:
1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):
- Adults: If someone’s heart stops, perform chest compressions at a rate of about 100 to 120 per minute, pressing down hard and fast in the centre of the chest.
- Children: Use less force but maintain the same rhythm.
- Don’t hesitate to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if one is available.
2. Choking:
- For adults and older children, perform the Heimlich maneuver by standing behind the person and giving upward abdominal thrusts.
- For infants, alternate between giving back blows and chest compressions.
3. Burns:
- Cool the burn with running water for at least 10 minutes.
- Don’t apply creams or ointments and don’t break blisters. Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing.
4. Bleeding:
- Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth.
- If the bleeding is severe, raise the injured area above the heart level and seek emergency help.
Learning first aid can make a significant difference in a critical situation. Having first aid apps and emergency information on your phone only strengthens your ability to act quickly and save lives.
By combining first aid knowledge with mobile phone tools like the Emergency Call button and What 3 Words app, we can all be better prepared in case of emergencies. If you have any questions or wish to discuss anything, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Thank you for reading this months blog, Why You Need to Get Rid of the Hard Skin on Your Feet.
Stay safe,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director