First aid training: integrating psychological support for responders
10/06/2024
Immediate allergic reaction: Identifying the signs and providing appropriate first aid
10/06/2024When faced with an electrical accident, the initial reaction of any bystander can be decisive. Knowing how to intervene effectively and safely is crucial to helping the victim while protecting yourself. This article aims to equip first responders with practical knowledge and clear steps to follow when faced with such an emergency. Discover the essential measures to take to manage an electrical accident effectively.
Before intervening: Safety first
In the event of an electrical accident, the absolute priority is to prevent further injury. Ensure your own safety before approaching the victim. Switch off the power immediately using the circuit breaker or main switch. If this is not possible, use an insulating object, such as dry wood or plastic, to move the source away from the victim. Never touch the victim directly while the current is still active, as you could be electrocuted.
Assess the situation and alert the emergency services
Once the area is safe, check whether the victim is conscious and breathing normally. If they are unresponsive or not breathing, call the emergency services immediately on 144. Clearly state the nature of the accident, the location and the victim’s condition. In the meantime, if someone else is present, ask them to alert the emergency services while you begin first aid, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.
Administer first aid
1. If the victim is unconscious but breathing
- Check their breathing by gently tilting the head back and observing the movement of the chest.
- Place the victim in the recovery position: gently bend one leg and turn the victim onto their side, with their mouth facing downwards to reduce the risk of inhaling vomit.
- Monitor their breathing every 2 to 3 minutes until the emergency services arrive.
2. If the victim is not breathing
- Begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. Place your hands in the centre of the chest, keep your arms straight and perform firm chest compressions to a depth of 5 to 6 cm at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- If you are trained, alternate with 2 rescue breaths after 30 compressions.
- If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, use it immediately and follow the voice prompts.
Continue until the emergency services arrive or the victim shows signs of recovery.
Prepare for the arrival of the emergency services
Be prepared to provide the emergency services with all relevant information about the accident. Clearly state where the accident occurred, what measures you took and the victim’s current condition. Make sure that access to the accident site is clear so that the emergency services can intervene quickly and effectively.
Awareness and prevention
Prevention is an essential aspect of electrical safety. Familiarise yourself with electrical safety equipment and safe working practices, and attend regular electrical safety training. Encourage those around you to be aware of the dangers of electricity and to adopt preventive behaviour.
This article is part of the IAS 2 training programme and is not included in the IAS 1 training programme or the BLS-AED-SRC course.
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