FIRST AID
MEANING AND DEFINITION OF FIRT AID
First aid is the immediate help given to someone who is injured
or suddenly ill before professional medical treatment is available.
Purpose of first aid is an immediate care till the medical aid is
given by the competent and qualified medical personnel.
The Prerequisite Personal Qualities of First Aider-
1. He should be calm and quite.
2. He should be able to maintain order as far as possible until the
arrival of emergency.
3. He should be quick but not hasty in taking decisions.
4. He should be observant about conditions arising out of accident.
5. He should be innovative to use some other first aid material
instead of real one.
TYPE OF FIRST AID
1.Self aid
2.First aid
SELF AID- refers to the basic first aid techniques and
measures that individuals can apply to themselves in
case of an emergency or injury when professional
medical help is not immediately available. Here's an
overview of some essential self-aid practices:
Assess the Situation:
Remain calm and evaluate the severity of the
situation.
Check for any immediate dangers to yourself or others
FIRST AID BOX
1.This is a small and handy kit box which contains the
following articles required by the first aider while
providing first aid:
i. Sterile gauze pieces.
ii.Bandages of different sizes.
iii.Adhesive plaster of different size.
iv.Sissors,saftey pins,tweezer.
v. Pad of various sizes
vi.Splints
vii.Antiseptic e.g. dettol,spirit,tincture and so on
viii.Silver sulfadiazine cream
ix.Analgesics,antibiotics packet of O.R.S etc.
cpr:cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique used
in emergencies when someone's heartbeat or breathing has stopped. It
is crucial in situations like heart attacks, drowning, or choking.
Steps for Performing CPR
1. Ensure Safety
Make sure the environment is safe for both you and the victim.
Check the person for responsiveness by gently shaking them and
shouting, "Are you okay?"
2. Call for Help
If the person is unresponsive and not breathing or not breathing
normally (gasping), call emergency services immediately (911 or your
local emergency number).
If others are around, ask someone to call for help and get an Automated
External Defibrillator (AED) if available.
3. Open the Airway
Lay the person on their back on a firm, flat surface.
Tilt the head back slightly to open the airway. Lift the chin by placing
one hand on the forehead and the other under the chin.
4.Check for Breathing
Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
If the person is not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR.
5. Chest Compressions
Position Your Hands: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the
chest (on the lower half of the breastbone). Place your other hand on top
of the first, interlocking your fingers.
Body Position: Position yourself directly over the victim's chest with your
arms straight.
Compression Depth and Rate: Push hard and fast. Compress the chest
at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
6. Rescue Breaths
Open the Airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin again.
Give Breaths: Pinch the nose shut, take a normal breath, and seal your
mouth over the victim’s mouth. Blow into the mouth to make the chest
rise. Give 2 breaths, each lasting about 1 second. Watch for chest rise.
7. Continue CPR
Repeat cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths.
Continue until medical professionals arrive, an AED becomes available,
the person shows signs of life, or you are too exhausted to continue.
AED: Automated External Defibrillator
Using an AED
1. Turn on the AED
Follow the voice prompts and instructions.
2. Attach the Pads
Place the adhesive pads on the victim’s bare chest.
3. Analyze and Deliver Shock
Ensure no one is touching the victim. Let the AED
analyze the heart rhythm.
If a shock is advised, ensure everyone is clear of the
victim and press the shock button when prompted.
4. Resume CPR
Continue CPR starting with chest compressions
immediately after the shock is delivered or if no shock is
advised, as per the AED instructions.
Special Considerations
Children and Infants
Use one hand for chest compressions on children (ages 1-8) and two
fingers for infants (under 1 year).
Compression depth for children is about 2 inches and 1.5 inches for infants.
Use a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths, similar to adults.
Drowning Victims
Start with rescue breaths (2 breaths) before beginning chest compressions.
Choking Victims
If the victim is conscious and choking, perform the Heimlich maneuver.
If unconscious, begin CPR and check for the object in the mouth before
giving breaths.
Importance of CPR
CPR maintains circulation and breathing until advanced medical help
arrives.
It significantly increases the chances of survival and recovery.
Conclusion
Knowing how to perform CPR can save lives. It's a critical skill that
everyone should learn and practice regularly. Consider taking a certified
CPR course to gain hands-on experience and confidence in performing
this lifesaving technique.
YOGIC MANAGEMENT OF STRESS AND ITS
CONSEQUENCES
Breathing Exercises (Pranayama)
Deep Breathing: Inhale deeply through the nose, hold for a few
seconds, and exhale slowly through the mouth. This calms the nervous
system.
Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana): Close one nostril,
inhale through the other, then switch nostrils and exhale. Repeat
several times. This balances energy and reduces stress.
Physical Postures (Asanas)
Child’s Pose (Balasana): Kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels,
and stretch your arms forward, resting your forehead on the ground.
This pose relaxes the body and mind.
Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): On all fours, alternate
between arching your back (cow) and rounding it (cat). This helps
release tension in the spine.
Corpse Pose (Savasana): Lie flat on your back with arms at your
sides, palms up. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing
your body to relax completely.
Meditation
Mindfulness Meditation: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus
on your breath. When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention
back to your breath. This practice reduces anxiety and improves
concentration.
Guided Imagery: Imagine a peaceful place, like a beach or forest, and
visualize yourself there. This can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Lifestyle Tips
Regular Practice: Consistency is key. Practice yoga and meditation
regularly, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day.
Healthy Diet: Eat nutritious foods and stay hydrated. Avoid excessive
caffeine and junk food.
Adequate Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest. Create a sleep routine
that helps you relax before bed.
Positive Mindset
Gratitude Practice: Write down things you’re grateful for each day.
This shifts focus from stress to positivity.
Affirmations: Use positive statements like “I am capable,” “I am calm,”
or “I can handle this.” Repeat them daily to boost confidence and
reduce stress.
Benefits of Yoga for Stress Management
Improved Focus: Helps you concentrate better
on studies.
Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Reduces
anxiety and promotes a positive outlook.
Better Physical Health: Relieves physical
tension and improves overall fitness.
Increased Resilience: Builds inner strength to
handle challenges effectively.
By incorporating these yogic practices into your
daily routine, you can manage stress more
effectively and improve your overall well-being.
CONCEPT OF STRESS MANAGEMENT
Stress is a natural and biological response to challenges or demands,
often referred to as stressors. It can be triggered by various factors,
ranging from external pressures to internal conflicts. Understanding
stress involves looking at its types, causes, and effects on both the mind
and body.
Types of Stress
Acute Stress
Short-term stress that arises from specific events or situations.
Examples: Exams, job interviews, or an argument.
Symptoms: Increased heart rate, sweaty palms, quickened breathing.
Chronic Stress
Long-term stress resulting from ongoing situations.
Examples: Financial difficulties, chronic illness, or prolonged work
pressure.
Symptoms: Persistent anxiety, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and health
problems.
Episodic Acute Stress
Frequent episodes of acute stress.
Common in individuals with chaotic lives or those who take on too much.
Symptoms: Frequent headaches, tension, and irritability.
Causes of Stress
External Factors
Academic Pressure: Deadlines, exams, and assignments.
Social Issues: Relationships, peer pressure, and social expectations.
Workload: Excessive tasks or responsibilities at school or home.
Life Changes: Moving to a new place, family issues, or loss of a loved one.
Internal Factors
Personal Beliefs: Perfectionism, fear of failure, and negative self-talk.
Health: Poor nutrition, lack of sleep, and physical inactivity.
Emotional State: Feelings of loneliness, sadness, or low self-esteem.
Effects of Stress
Physical Effects
Headaches, muscle tension, chest pain.
Fatigue, sleep problems, and changes in appetite.
Weakened immune system, leading to frequent illnesses.
Emotional and Mental Effects
Anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
Difficulty concentrating and memory problems.
Feeling overwhelmed, restless, or irritable.
Behavioral Effects
Changes in eating habits, such as overeating or undereating.
Increased use of substances like alcohol, drugs, or caffeine.
Social withdrawal and neglecting responsibilities.
Managing Stress
Effective stress management involves strategies that address both the causes
and effects of stress:
Healthy Lifestyle
Regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol.
Relaxation Techniques
Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.
Activities like listening to music, reading, or hobbies.
Time Management
Prioritizing tasks and setting realistic goals.
Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Social Support
Talking to friends, family, or a counselor.
Joining support groups or engaging in social activities.
Positive Thinking
Practicing gratitude and focusing on positive aspects of life.
Using affirmations and visualization techniques.
Conclusion
Stress is a common experience, but understanding its nature and effects can
help manage it effectively. By adopting healthy habits, relaxation techniques,
and a positive mindset, students can cope with stress and enhance their well-
being.
Hypertension: Understanding High Blood Pressure
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common
medical condition where the force of the blood against
the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. If left
untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health
problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney
failure.
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury
(mm Hg) and recorded with two numbers:
Systolic Pressure: The top number, which measures
the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
Diastolic Pressure: The bottom number, which
measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart
rests between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is typically around
120/80 mm Hg.
Causes of Hypertension
Primary (Essential) Hypertension
No identifiable cause.
Develops gradually over many years.
Influenced by genetic and lifestyle factors.
Secondary Hypertension
Caused by an underlying condition.
Appears suddenly and causes higher blood pressure than primary hypertension.
Conditions like kidney disease, thyroid problems, and certain medications can
cause secondary hypertension.
Risk Factors
Age: The risk increases with age.
Family History: A family history of hypertension can increase risk.
Obesity: Excess weight increases the demand on the heart.
Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to weight gain and high
blood pressure.
Diet: High salt (sodium) intake, low potassium intake, and excessive alcohol
consumption can raise blood pressure.
Tobacco Use: Smoking and chewing tobacco raise blood pressure.
Stress: High levels of stress can lead to temporary increases in blood
pressure.
SYMPTOMS
Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it typically has no
symptoms until it causes significant health problems. When symptoms do
occur, they may include:
Headaches
Shortness of breath
Nosebleeds
Chest pain
Vision problems
Complications
If left untreated, hypertension can lead to:
Heart Attack or Stroke: High blood pressure can cause hardening and
thickening of the arteries.
Aneurysm: Increased blood pressure can cause blood vessels to weaken
and bulge.
Heart Failure: The heart has to work harder, leading to thickened heart
muscles that may not pump blood effectively.
Kidney Damage: Hypertension can damage blood vessels in the kidneys.
Vision Loss: Can cause thickened, narrowed, or torn blood vessels in the
eyes.
Diagnosis
Blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer. Regular
Treatment and Management
Lifestyle Changes
Healthy Diet: Follow the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop
Hypertension), which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and
low-fat dairy.
Reduce Salt Intake: Aim for less than 2,300 mg per day, ideally
around 1,500 mg.
Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate
aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even a small amount of weight loss
can help lower blood pressure.
Limit Alcohol: Drink in moderation – up to one drink per day for
women and two drinks per day for men.
Quit Smoking: Stopping tobacco use improves overall heart
health.
Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation,
yoga, or deep breathing.