CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6: EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND FIRST AID 

6.1 Understanding Emergencies in Healthcare 

Emergencies can occur at any time in a healthcare setting. Nursing assistants and caregivers must be prepared to respond quickly and effectively. Common medical emergencies include: 

Cardiac arrest (heart stops beating) 

Respiratory distress (difficulty breathing) 

Severe bleeding (uncontrolled blood loss) 

Stroke (sudden loss of function due to lack of blood flow to the brain) 

Seizures (abnormal electrical activity in the brain) 

Falls and fractures (injuries from slipping or losing balance) 

6.2 Basic First Aid Skills 

Nursing assistants should know basic first aid procedures to provide immediate care before professional medical help arrives. Essential first aid skills include: 

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation): A life-saving technique used when a person's heart has stopped beating. It involves chest compressions and rescue breaths. 

Choking First Aid: The Heimlich maneuver is used to help a choking patient expel an obstruction from their airway. 

Wound Care: Cleaning and dressing wounds to prevent infection and control bleeding. 

Managing Fractures and Sprains: Immobilizing the injured area to prevent further damage. 

Burn Treatment: Cooling burns with running water and covering them with sterile dressings. 

Recognizing and Responding to Shock: Keeping the patient calm, elevating their legs, and ensuring they receive prompt medical attention. 

6.3 Using Emergency Equipment 

Automated External Defibrillator (AED): A device used to help restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. 

Oxygen Therapy: Assisting patients who require oxygen support. 

First Aid Kit: Understanding the supplies available in a standard first aid kit and how to use them properly. 

Case Study: Quick Response Saves a Life 

During a routine check, Samuel, a nursing assistant, notices a patient clutching his chest and gasping for air. Recognizing the signs of a heart attack, Samuel immediately calls for medical help and assists the nurse in performing CPR. His quick thinking and knowledge of emergency response procedures help stabilize the patient before the doctor arrives. 

6.4 Emergency Preparedness in Healthcare Facilities 

Knowing emergency exits and procedures: Understanding evacuation routes and fire safety protocols. 

Reporting emergencies correctly: Contacting emergency personnel and documenting incidents accurately. 

Working as a team in emergencies: Coordinating with other healthcare staff to ensure swift and efficient responses. 

Scenario: Handling a Fire Emergency 

Maria, a caregiver in a nursing home, notices smoke coming from a patient’s room. She quickly activates the fire alarm, ensures all patients are evacuated, and uses a fire extinguisher to contain the small fire until firefighters arrive.