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First Aid Basics Everyone Should Know: CPR, Burns, and Emergencies

By Rishtaara Editorial Team12 min read
#First Aid#Safety#CPR

DRABC primary survey, hands-only CPR, bleeding control, choking response, and building a home first aid kit — step-by-step emergency readiness.

The Primary Survey: DRABC

Call emergency services (112 in EU, 911 in US, 102/108 in India) before or while starting care. Early activation saves lives.

  • Danger — ensure scene is safe for you and victim.
  • Response — tap and ask if they are okay.
  • Airway — tilt head, lift chin if unconscious.
  • Breathing — look, listen, feel for 10 seconds.
  • Circulation — start CPR if not breathing normally.

CPR Basics for Adults

Place heel of hand on center of chest, other hand on top, push hard and fast at 100–120 compressions per minute, depth about 5–6 cm. Allow full chest recoil. If trained, give 30 compressions then 2 rescue breaths.

AED machines in public places talk you through steps. Turn it on and follow voice prompts — any CPR beats none.

Bleeding, Burns, and Fractures

Bleeding: apply direct pressure with clean cloth for several minutes without peeking. Elevate limb if possible. Tourniquets only for life-threatening limb bleeding when trained.

Burns: cool running water 20 minutes for thermal burns. Remove jewelry near burn. Cover loosely; do not apply butter or toothpaste.

Suspected fracture: immobilize in position found, apply cold pack, seek medical care. Do not force straightening.

Choking and Allergic Reactions

Conscious choking adult: back blows, then abdominal thrusts (Heimlich). Pregnant or obese: chest thrusts.

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): epinephrine auto-injector if available, call emergency services, monitor breathing. Antihistamines alone are insufficient for anaphylaxis.

Building a Home First Aid Kit

  • Adhesive bandages, gauze, medical tape, scissors, tweezers.
  • Antiseptic wipes, disposable gloves, triangular bandage.
  • Pain relievers you are not allergic to, electrolyte packets.
  • Emergency contacts list and any personal medications list.

Training and Certification

Take a certified first aid and CPR course annually. Skills decay without practice. Many employers and universities subsidize training — worth pursuing before you need it.

Key Takeaways

  • DRABC gives order during chaotic emergencies — call help early.
  • Quality chest compressions are the core of adult CPR.
  • Cool burns with water; pressure controls most external bleeding.
  • Formal certification beats watching videos alone.