First aid training: integrating psychological support for responders

Health professionals and volunteers involved in first aid are often confronted with situations of intense distress. It is therefore crucial to include a psychological support component in their training. This enables them not only to manage their own stress, but also to offer better assistance to victims. In this article, we explore the importance of this psychological dimension and how it is being implemented in French-speaking Switzerland.

Defining the need for psychological support

First aid responders are frequently exposed to traumatic scenes that can leave deep scars on their mental health. Recognising the impact of these experiences is the first step towards providing adequate support. In French-speaking Switzerland, initiatives are being taken to incorporate training in psychological support into first aid courses, enabling first aiders to better manage crisis situations while preserving their emotional well-being.

Integration into existing training courses

TheIAS 2 training includes a dedicated psychological support module, unlike the IAS 1 and BLS AED SRC programmes. This module is designed to equip first aiders with practical tools to recognise and manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress, both in victims and in the responders themselves. These skills are essential to ensure comprehensive and empathetic care during interventions.

Techniques and methods taught

The psychological support techniques taught during these courses include empathic communication, psychological first aid and stress management strategies. Specialist trainers use simulations and role-playing to better prepare first-aiders for these challenges. In addition, particular attention is paid to the early detection of signs of stress in responders, so that they can intervene proactively.

Case studies and feedback

Specific case studies illustrate the effectiveness of integrating psychological support into first aid training. The testimonies of first-aiders who have benefited from this type of training highlight a significant improvement in their ability to manage situations of pressure and crisis. This feedback is invaluable for the ongoing development of training programmes.

Outlook and developments

In conclusion, the integration of psychological support into first aid training in French-speaking Switzerland represents a significant advance in emergency management. Not only does this improve the quality of the initial response, it also ensures better resilience and mental health among responders. In the future, there are plans to extend this training to include more professionals and volunteers.