First degree burn

First degree burns are usually painful, red and swollen. They also turn white upon the application of pressure and will often peel and flake after a couple of days. Treat these by first soaking in cold water and using a topical ointment like Aloe Vera. One can also take over-the-counter pain killers to ease the discomfort. If the area is larger than 3 inches wide or is in the feet, face, or genitals, seek medical attention. Such injuries usually heal in a matter of days.

Second degree

These burns cause swelling, severe pain and splotchy skin with large blisters. Treat these kinds of burns by soaking in cool water for about 15 minutes. If the area is not big, place a wet, cool towel to lower the temperature. Use an antibiotic ointment/cream that the doctor prescribes.

The burn should then be covered using a nonstick dry gauze during the burns first aid. This should be changed everyday after washing the area gently. If any symptoms of infection appear, see a doctor immediately. This injury could take several weeks to heal. However, one should seek medical attention for large second degree burns.

Third degree

Third degree burns usually damage all skin layers and have a charred/white appearance. Due to the extensive nerve damage to the skin, the burn may be painless. Such severe injuries require immediate medical attention. Don’t soak or try to remove garments stuck to the skin. You can apply a clean bandage to the area till you arrive at the hospital.

Management of other types of burns

Burns could also be due to electricity or exposure to chemicals. For the former, damage may be present in other areas of the body besides the skin surface. Due to this, one should seek medical help immediately. Wash chemical burns using lots of water. Remove any clothing that has the chemical on it. Don’t apply topical medication because it could react with the chemical agent that caused the burn. If you’re unsure of whether to seek medical help, contact your local poison center.

For steam burns, first analyze the severity. Burns First aid treatment won’t be of any help if the injury is so intense that emergency treatment is needed. If the burn has open skin, is blistered or is larger than 3 inches in diameter, seek medical help. While severe burns are usually evident, there may be inconspicuous injuries such as respiratory damage due to inhalation.

Other common burns are due to cigarettes. For such, you can follow the burns first aid procedures used to treat first degree burns. This is because they are usually not severe. Provide oral painkillers 3 to 4 times a day to alleviate the pain. Burns first aid procedures should be carried out immediately they occur in order to reduce the chance of a scar developing and to prevent infection as well.

FACT CHECK

https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-burns/basics/art-20056649

https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/thermal-heat-or-fire-burns-treatment#1

https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/injuries/skin-injuries/burns-and-scalds

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This article presents a chronological history of lifeguard first aid.

1708 – The Chinkiang Association for the Saving of Life is the earliest known organization founded in China, and with the sole intention of saving lives (just as the name describes).

1744 – the Royal Humane Society was created to deal with ignorance in the masses as well as to eliminate doubts as to the proper methods of carrying out resuscitation. In those days, some of the methods used to resuscitate, and which were eventually disallowed included:

–          Rolling the individual who has drowned face upwards

–          Placing the drowned victim a top a horse that is then allowed to trot with the aim of getting rid of the excessive water.

–          Using salt with large crystals on the victim

1776 – The Amsterdam Rescue Society was formed in Netherlands in order to ease the resuscitation of victims following drowning accidents.

1807 – The Massachusetts Humane Society was formed with the aim of setting up the country’s first lifeboat station situated on Cape Cod. This is significant in the history of lifeguard first aid because in years to come, a number of organizations would be founded on this model.

1855 – A number of beach patrols were formed to cater for rescue efforts as well as to organize for patrolling.

1862 – The Army Ambulance Corps was formed

1865 – This year saw the very first civilian services offered by ambulances in the USA.

1870 – Ambulance services in New York were first dispatched by way of using telegraphs.

1877 – The first patent for a life jacket is awarded to one made of cork, marking a significant point in the history of lifeguard first aid

1891 – The Swimmers Life-Saving Society is formed by two individuals belonging to the amateur Swimming Association of Great Britain. In years to come, the Society would change its name to the Royal Life Saving Society.

1903 – The first procedure to aid with artificial respiration is invented by a doctor with roots from England, Dr. E Sharpey Schafer.

1910 – The Red Cross organization makes an introduction of First Aid training, marking an integral stage for the history of lifeguard first aid.

1912 – It is impossible to talk about the lifeguard first aid without making mention of the ‘World’s Greatest Lifeguard’. The first deaf lifeguard documented, Le Roy Columbo suffered from a bout of meningitis that made him lose his hearing as well as his lower limbs. This did not deter him from his passion and he went ahead to save 907 lives in a period spanning 40 years.

1924 – The American Heart Association (AHA) was founded this year by a group of 6 cardiologists

Between 1939 and 1945, the Red Cross began a national blood campaign that helped collect more than 13.3 million pints of blood to help the armed forces.

Fast forward to 2005 and mobile phones can be used to transmit a patient’s readings before they can get to the hospital to get medical attention.

This in a nutshell presents the history of lifeguard first aid, showing the strides that have been made in the same regard.

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Part of undergoing lifeguard training revolves around knowing that there are a number of scenarios that you should expect. These are enactments created for the purpose of training so that individuals are able to know what to expect and how to act when emergency strikes. This is one of the major reasons why individuals who are keen to undertake such training need to be adequately prepared. The enactments are also another reason why when it comes to lifeguard training it is imperative to choose an offline form of treatment.

Carry out an evaluation of the adult victim from head-to-toe. In children and infants, the process is reversed so that it is carried out from toe-to-head. This plays a fundamental role because it allows you to notice any abnormalities present.

i)                    For the purposes of first aid procedures indicated in training in the capacity of a lifeguard, one should take steps to make sure that they are prepared to call for backup. During the call, the lifeguard will carry out first aid procedures as taught during lifeguard training, all the while taking time to accurately describe the patient’s symptoms as well as any signs of injury.

ii)                   One should also make sure that they outline the steps required when addressing medical professionals, as and when is necessary. In line with this, if the patient is conscious, it is imperative that the lifeguard explains the procedural instructions that they are meant to undergo.

Listed below are some of the typical scenarios that one should expect during the duration of training. Note that while these are examples, they certainly do not act as replacement for proper and formal training as a lifeguard.

Scenario 1: you are at the poolside and a 5 year old comes running to you, telling you that they have sprained their ankle. Their guardian is at the far end of the pool. How do you treat the situation? Lifeguard training teaches that you must first seek consent from the guardian before proceeding to provide first aid for the sprain.

Scenario 2: You are hanging out with your friends at a barbecue party when you are called by one of the friends and told that there is someone who needs attention urgently. The reason is that they are feeling dizzy, and suspect that their sugar levels could have taken a dip. The first aid solution for this will be taking first aid steps for sudden disease as well as dealing with diabetic episodes.

Scenario 3: you are walking down the beach and you notice a person foaming at the mouth. What steps do you take? Lifeguard training teaches you to carry out first aid for persons experiencing seizures.

Granted, it is not possible to outline every kind of medical emergency, but the first aid procedures covered will go a long way in ensuring preparedness.

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As part of lifeguard first aid, one must be well aware of the procedures required to administer first aid in case a victim gets stung by jellyfish. Contrary to popular belief, human urine does not provide solution for treating jellyfish stings. The reason for this is that the components of urine will only irritate the area of sting, making the injury worse. The same is applicable in cases where victims want to clean the sting with fresh water before treatment can be administered. Application of an icepack to the affected region is also not recommended because this is one of the most common reactions people take in a bid to reduce the swelling as well as alleviate the pain.

There are a number of factors that one must consider before using skills learnt in of lifeguard first aid to address the injuries obtained following a jellyfish sting. These factors include:

–          The site of injury where the victim was stung

–          The extent of the injury

–          The age of the victim

–          The location where the stinging occurred.

How do jellyfish stings work?

Even before delving into the techniques that of lifeguard first aid training will equip one with, it is important to have an in depth understanding of the biology behind stings obtained from jellyfish. Jellyfish sting their victims by using nematocysts which are created and allowed to separate from their tentacles. The nematocysts are small tubules which are covered in tiny spines. The spines attach themselves to the human skin, activating the nematocysts and releasing an array of chemicals into the body. It is also critical to take note that even after stinging, some nematocysts may not be activated immediately.

With this understanding, why does lifeguard first aid training prohibit the use of human urine as a form of treatment? Urine alters the ph at the site of injury, and this may trigger the inactive nematocysts to fire, leading to more pain. Granted, some species of jellyfish do not create life threatening conditions, but since it is impossible to know which species has affected an individual, it becomes important to treat jellyfish stings as an emergency.

Symptoms of jellyfish stings

–          Labored breathing

–          Intense chest pain

–          Irregular heart beat when one checks the victim’s pulse

–          Spasmic muscles

–          Loss o consciousness

–          Nausea and general body weakness

Lifeguard first aid: treatment of jellyfish stings

–          If you can still see the tentacles, you could try getting rid of them. This will prevent the nematocysts from firing. Use a pair of tweezers

–          Alternatively, deactivate the nematocysts, and during the procedure, it is important the victim remains still. Immobility means that the risk of the activation of nematocysts is highly reduced.

–          Pour vinegar on the sting in order to deactivate the unfired nematocysts. The use of vinegar in this form of lifeguard first aid is preferred because the acidity neutralizes some of the protein components in the stings.

–          Make sure to throw away the clothing that you use to remove the tentacles to prevent coming into contact with the same at a later stage.

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What are the causes of unconsciousness and ow to deal with Loss of consciousness?

The Loss of consciousness is one which can be caused by a number of factors. These include illnesses, injuries and complications that are brought about by drug and alcohol abuse. Other common causes of unconsciousness or fainting are;

• Severe blood loss.
• Car accidents.
• Alcohol poisoning.
• Trauma to the head.
• Drug overdose.

Other sudden changes in the body also in many cases have contributed to fainting. These are;

• Low blood pressure.
• Low blood sugar.
• Dehydration.
• Syncope.
• Heart condition.
• Hyperventilation.

Treatment through first aid.

The following are the necessary steps to take to help one who has fainted.

• Check the breathing pattern of the person. If he is still breathing, make him lie on his back on a flat surface.
• Raise the victim’s legs to a position of twelve inches above the surface.
• Loosen any restricting jewelry, belts or clothing then call emergency medical services especially if the individual stays unconscious for more than one minute.
• Make sure the person’s airways are obstruction free.
• Check for the signs of circulation. These are coughing, breathing or movement. If these signs are not visible, start CPR immediately as you wait for help to arrive.

How to treat the Loss of consciousness.

If the cause of the person’s unconsciousness is due to low blood pressure, the doctor will normally administer a medication that will help the blood pressure rise. If the cause was a low sugar level in the blood, a glucose injection may be used to increase the sugar level. The victim may also be given something sweet to eat.

Unconsciousness caused by injuries especially to the head may see the victim undergo a surgery so as to correct the situation.

Complications from Loss of consciousness.

Fainting or unconsciousness has the ability of causing a number of complications to the victim. Some of these complications are permanent while others may not be. These complications arise mostly when the condition of unconsciousness is not addressed soon enough hence causing the complications to the individual. These include

• Coma
• Brain damage.

The CPR that is done when one is unconscious has the chances of getting one a fracture to the ribs. To be sure that that never happened, it is vital that one is undertaken through an ex-ray once they regain consciousness.

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In the past 4 decades or so, baby oil and a blanket with reflective characteristics was all that you required to go out to the beach and have some fun. In sharp contrast with today’s world where people are looking to understand the importance of using sunscreen, back then the craze to get it right made individuals seek to use motor oil. We may cringe at this thought today, but you may want to consider that in those days, skin cancer was still unheard of. Some veteran lifeguards will today admit to you some of the oils that they used back in the day, and this is inclusive of Coppertone oil.

Fast forward to today and many more lifeguards are admitting that there has been increased awareness about the importance of using sunscreen. This has seen many more people work to protect themselves from the sun. Unlike in the past, today individuals will still get tanned, but will do so in the presence of sun block. Add to this the use of wide brim hats, rash guards and umbrellas and you have the full picture of an informed beach goers. In addition, today, many more parents are making sure that the little ones are protected as well especially because they are at a stage where it is very easy for the body to get damaged by harmful UV rays.

Some have gone to the extent of carrying tents to the beach in a bid to protect themselves from the sun. While this is a step ahead as far as the importance of using sunscreen is concerned, it poses a challenge for the lifeguards as they are not in a position to spot the little ones in the event of an emergency. Whether or not to put up a tent is a personal choice, albeit an unwise one if you choose to do so.

Conclusion

It is evident that lifeguards in the younger generation are more conscious of their health, and will go the extra mile to use sunscreen. This is because they comprehend the importance of using sunscreen, and are therefore in a capacity to advise individuals about the same. This is also evident in the way they work at the beach, by enclosing themselves in work centres with tinted windows to reduce the glare of the sun.

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Duties in the job description of a lifeguard

–          Generally speaking, the job description of a lifeguard involves watching people at the swimming pool or by the sea to make sure that they are safe. Other areas where it is necessary to have a life guard include water amusement parks and private clubs. In case there is an accident, it is also your duty to make sure that you rescue them and give first aid before medical help arrives.

–          It is also the duty of the lifeguard to supervise swimmers, and especially those who are just beginning to learn how to swim.

–          The lifeguard should also be able to identify potential hazards in order to prevent accidents from occurring.

–          The lifeguard is in a position to provide advice as far as water related sports are concerned.

–          It is impossible to talk about the job description of a lifeguard without making mention of the importance of first aid knowledge. Of utmost importance is the lifeguard’s mastery of CPR techniques.

–          Due to the nature of the job, a lifeguard must also be able to keep chaotic situations under control to prevent any water accidents.

What criteria must be met for anyone looking to understand the job description of a lifeguard?

–          You must be at least 16 years and must have passed tests offered by the relevant body in your country. This will often incorporate the following:

• Ability to dive into the deep end of the pool as well as deep waters as is the case in the sea.
• Ability to swim 100 meters in less than 2 minutes.
• Ability to surface dive to the bottom of the pool.
• If you intend to work at the beach, you must be able to run a minimum of 400 meters because unlike the poolside, the beach can stretch for kilometers and it is important to be able to attend to individuals promptly.

What traits are required for the job description of a lifeguard?

–          One must be courageous in the face of adversity, and calm under pressure.

–          The incumbent must also be likeable as this makes it easy for people to approach them.

–          You must also be sociable to be able to interact with the public.

–          A sluggish individual does not make a great lifeguard as one must be able to spring into action when called upon to do so.

–          To be a great lifeguard, you must keep fit so that you are able to respond swiftly.

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Apply Sun Protection

When going out to the beach or sun basking, ensure that you apply sun protection. The skin is susceptible to damage from the harmful UV rays. Apart from these lotions, it’s also advisable to wear cotton clothes, eyewear and a hat during summer. This is an effective method of enjoying radiant skin even when you age.

Maintain Cleanliness

Many men don’t clean up as required. Men’s skin health can only be maintained when you take a bath daily. Wash the face twice a day—in the morning and evening. Use water (warm preferably) and soap (mild) to remove all dead skin cells. Your skin’s health will improve because all clogged pores will be opened.

Manage Acne

Acne is a serious condition that affects the skin, leaving it blemished and unsightly. For acute acne, use products that contain benzoyl peroxide which is an active ingredient that alleviates the condition. Another ingredient that you can also use is salicylic acid. Severe acne requires medical assistance from a dermatologist since it can worsen with the use of some cosmetic products.

Use Moisturizer

A great moisturizer will keep the skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Always ensure that you purchase a moisturizer that is labeled noncomedogenic, which is effective for all skin types. Even those who are keen in observing men’s skin health but suffer from acne breakouts can use these products.

Live Healthier

Avoid sugary and fatty foods. Adopt a healthier diet that consists of fresh veggies and fruits that contain essential nutrients needed by the skin. Also, drink plenty of water. Exercise in order to keep the body fit. You can play soccer, walk, jog, go swimming or indulge in any other physical activity for 45 minutes every day.

Important Tips:

Bear in mind that men’s skin health depends on several factors. If you have allergies, visit a dermatologist to get detailed info on your particular situation.

Avoid smoking and overindulgence in alcohol. These drugs contain harmful chemicals that degenerate the skin cells.

Maintain clean hair. Dirty hair irritates the face’s skin by releasing dandruff and oils.

Go to a professional barber for a shave. In case you insist on doing it yourself, ensure that you do it carefully. Apply aftershave to prevent irritation, especially when dealing with facial hair.

When using this regimen, give adequate time for results to be visible. Three weeks will be enough to tell whether you’re making progress or not.

Use mild deodorant. Sprays, perfumes and roll-ons with strong smells usually cause damage not only by suffocating other people, but also by deteriorating men’s skin health.

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In most cases, hyperactivity is brought about by the following reasons:

Events

Foods

Anxiety

Anger

How to Manage Hyperactivity

The process of managing hyperactivity in kids is moderately challenging. You’ll be required to practice patience as this will prevent worsening the situation. Here are a few things you could do:

Avoid revealing emotions. Children tend to read their parent’s emotions through the voice tone. Talk to the child in a calm voice to establish a sense of compassion. Hyperactive children will obey parents that are able to relate to them like friends.

Provide attention. It’s a well-known fact that children seek attention through all available ways. Hyperactivity normally kicks in when their parents ignore them. Conversing with the child for a while will make him/her less hyper.

Don’t challenge hyperactive children. This is actually where most parents go wrong because by being harsh to their children, they end up lowering their confidence level. In its place, try to behave in a kind way.

Provide physical relief. Some children are born with extra energy than their counterparts. You’ll be surprised that what the child needed was a constructive outlet for the adrenaline. A stress ball is an effective toy for serving this purpose.

Make the child reconsider. A child that is hyper normally acts jumpy because he/she finds the act enjoyable. In order to stop the child, challenge their idea and provide a much better one that will be less physically demanding.

Important Tips

Set up a routine that will describe the expectation of everyone in the family including the hyperactive children. This way, they’ll feel proud of accomplishing a family goal, rather than a personal one, when they refrain from hyper activities.

Send the child to his/her room when hyperactivity starts. However, do not employ a ‘grounding’ technique but rather a ‘time-out’ for the child to play in his/her own space. Make sure that you provide them with toys when sending them to their rooms.

Set strict bedtime. Parents make the mistake of allowing small kids to stay up until late. Such kids will take advantage of the opportunity to drain their parents’ energy out. To avoid this, be strict with bedtimes and get time to unwind and relax too.

Keep the children busy. Hyperactive children usually start acting wildly when they’re bored. Ensure that there are plenty of tasks and games around the house that will keep their young minds busy.

Avoid giving children plenty of caffeine and/or sugar. These two ingredients elevate energy levels thus act as fuel to children. Hyper activity is bound to kick in when these ingredients are consumed in excess.

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What are the causes of unconsciousness?

The condition of unconsciousness is one which can be caused by a number of factors. These include illnesses, injuries and complications that are brought about by drug and alcohol abuse. Other common causes of unconsciousness or fainting are;

• Severe blood loss.
• Car accidents.
• Alcohol poisoning.
• Trauma to the head.
• Drug overdose.

Other sudden changes in the body also in many cases have contributed to the loss of consciousness. These are;

• Low blood pressure.
• Low blood sugar.
• Dehydration.
• Syncope.
• Heart condition.
• Hyperventilation.

Treatment  of loss of consciousness through first aid.

The following are the necessary steps to take to help one suffering from loss of consciousness.

• Check the breathing pattern of the person. If he is still breathing, make him lie on his back on a flat surface.
• Raise the victim’s legs to a position of twelve inches above the surface.
• Loosen any restricting jewelry, belts or clothing then call emergency medical services especially if the individual stays unconscious for more than one minute.
• Make sure the person’s airways are obstruction free.
• Check for the signs of circulation. These are coughing, breathing or movement. If these signs are not visible, start CPR immediately as you wait for help to arrive.

How to deal with loss of consciousness.

If the cause of the person’s unconsciousness is due to low blood pressure, the doctor will normally administer a medication that will help the blood pressure rise. If the cause was a low sugar level in the blood, a glucose injection may be used to increase the sugar level. The victim may also be given something sweet to eat.

Unconsciousness caused by injuries especially to the head may see the victim undergo a surgery so as to correct the situation.

Complications from loss of consciousness.

Fainting or unconsciousness has the ability of causing a number of complications to the victim. Some of these complications are permanent while others may not be. These complications arise mostly when the condition of unconsciousness is not addressed soon enough hence causing the complications to the individual. These include

• Coma
• Brain damage.

The CPR that is done when one is unconscious has the chances of getting one a fracture to the ribs. To be sure that that never happened, it is vital that one is undertaken through an ex-ray once they regain consciousness.

The post How to deal with Loss of consciousness. appeared first on Lifeguard First Aid.