First-Aid Basics Everyone Should Know: Essential Skills for Every Situation

Emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere—but having a grasp on basic first aid can make all the difference. Knowing how to respond helps the injured person and gives you the confidence to act in critical moments.

Here’s a breakdown of how to handle common injuries and emergencies and recognize situations that require professional care:

1. Treating cuts, scrapes and bleeding

Cleaning a wound is the first step to preventing infection. To start, wash your hands thoroughly to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria. Rinse the wound under cool running water and use mild soap to clean the area around it if necessary.

To stop bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until the bleeding subsides. Once the bleeding has stopped, protect the wound by covering it with a sterile bandage. “If the cut is deep, continues to bleed after ten minutes or shows signs of infection like redness, swelling, warmth or pus, visit an urgent care or center or contact your health care provider,” said Richard Hendrix, M.D., a physician at Inspira Medical Group Urgent Care.

For more severe bleeding, such as spurting blood or wounds that won’t stop bleeding despite pressure, call 9-1-1 immediately. While waiting for help, keep firm pressure on the wound and, if possible, elevate the injured area above the heart.

2. Managing burns

Immediate care is crucial for treating burns. Cool the burn by running cool—not cold—water over it for at least ten minutes or by applying a cool, damp cloth. Avoid breaking any blisters that may form, as they serve as a natural barrier to protect the skin underneath.

After cooling the area, cover it with a clean, non-stick sterile dressing. “Burns that appear charred or white, as well as those that are larger than the size of your palm located on the face, hands, feet or groin require professional medical attention right away,” said Dr. Hendrix.

3. Handling sprains and strains

When dealing with a sprain or strain, the RICE method is a reliable approach:

• Rest: Rest the injured area by avoiding any weight-bearing activities
• Ice: Ice the area with cold packs wrapped in a cloth for twenty minutes at a time to reduce swelling and pain
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage, ensuring it’s snug but not too tight
• Elevation: Elevate the injured area above heart level to minimize swelling

If the pain is severe, the joint looks deformed or you cannot move or bear weight on the injured area, seek urgent care services.

4. Recognizing and responding to choking

Choking is a frightening emergency, but knowing how to respond can save a life. The Heimlich maneuver is the go-to method for adults and older children. To perform the Heimlich maneuver, stand behind the person, place your fist just above their navel and give quick upward thrusts.

For infants, lay them face down along your forearm and deliver five firm back blows between the shoulder blades, followed by five gentle chest thrusts. If the person cannot breathe, speak or cough, call 9-1-1 immediately for assistance.

5. Identifying signs of a heart attack or stroke

“Recognizing the signs of a heart attack or stroke can mean the difference between life and death,” said Dr. Hendrix. “Heart attack symptoms often include chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea and pain radiating to the arm, neck or jaw.” If you suspect a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately.

For strokes, the FAST method can help you remember the warning signs:

• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 9-1-1

If you are having chest pain or any heart or stroke related symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately. Quick action is critical in both scenarios to improve outcomes.

6. Preparing for emergencies

Preparation is key to handling emergencies effectively. “Build a first-aid kit that includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape, scissors, tweezers and gloves,” said Dr. Hendrix. “Keep emergency numbers readily available, such as those for urgent care centers, poison control and local emergency services.” Consider taking a first-aid course to learn hands-on skills and build your confidence.

Understanding these first-aid basics can help you stay calm and act decisively in emergencies. While these skills are invaluable, always seek professional medical care when needed. Your timely response could save a life or prevent further complications.

Learn more about walk-in and same-day urgent care at Inspira.