Immediate allergic reaction: Identifying the signs and providing appropriate first aid
10/06/2024
Assessing an Unconscious Patient: Essential Techniques
10/06/2024Every year in French-speaking Switzerland, road accidents create situations in which rapid and effective intervention can save lives. Knowing how to respond to a road accident is a crucial skill for every driver and passenger. This article guides you through the fundamental steps of first aid, in accordance with the IAS 1 and IAS 2 training standards in force in Switzerland. Take the time to familiarise yourself with these practices, which could one day make all the difference.
First steps after an accident
When you witness a road accident, safety is the absolute priority. Stop your vehicle at a safe distance, activate the hazard warning lights and put on a high-visibility vest so that you can be seen. Place a warning triangle at least 50 metres in built-up areas and 100 metres on motorways to warn other drivers. Never expose yourself unnecessarily to the dangers of traffic. Properly securing the scene helps prevent a secondary accident.
Assessing the situation and alerting the emergency services
Once the area is secure, quickly assess the condition of the victims. Approach them carefully and check whether they are conscious and breathing normally. Speak to them calmly to assess their condition. If necessary, immediately contact the emergency services on 144 (medical emergency number in Switzerland). Be precise: provide the exact location, the number of victims, their apparent condition and any potential risks (fire, fuel leak). Stay on the line until the operator has all the necessary information.
First-aid procedures
When a person is unconscious but breathing, it is essential to place them in the recovery position. This position reduces the risk of suffocation by keeping the airways clear and allowing vomit to drain. Make sure the head is tilted slightly backwards to ensure good ventilation.
If the person is unconscious and not breathing, immediately begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Perform deep, regular chest compressions (5–6 cm) at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute. If you are trained to do so, add rescue breaths at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
Using an automated external defibrillator (AED) as soon as one is available is crucial. Switch on the device, follow the voice instructions and make sure that no one touches the victim when the shock is delivered. Rapid intervention, in accordance with the protocols taught in BLS-AED-SRC training, significantly increases the chances of survival.
Treating injuries
For injured victims, avoid moving them unless their immediate surroundings pose an imminent danger. If you must move them, stabilise the neck and back during the transfer to prevent their injuries from worsening. Apply sterile dressings to open wounds to limit bleeding.
In the event of severe bleeding from a limb, using a suitable tourniquet can help control blood loss quickly while waiting for the emergency services to arrive. This is recommended equipment for any first-aid kit intended for high-risk environments.
Final thoughts on road accident first aid
Knowledge of first aid is an essential skill on the roads. By following these guidelines, you contribute not only to the safety of victims but also to that of all road users. Remember that taking a first aid course, such as the IAS 1 and IAS 2 courses, is essential for anyone who regularly travels by road.
To develop these skills further, discover our specialised training courses:
