Question

What first aid will you provide in the following situations?
(a) Dog bite
(b) Scratches/ bleeding
(c) Burns/scalds
(d) Snakebite
(e) Sunstroke

Answer 1

(a) Following first aid should be provided for dog bite:

• A dog bite wound must be very thoroughly cleaned, first with soapy water and then with an antiseptic.

• If this is not done, the bite might lead to rabies.

• Cover the wound with a bandage.

• See a doctor immediately.

(b) Following first aid should be provided for scratches/bleeding:

• Clean the wound with cotton soaked in antiseptic lotion.

• Apply bandage (in case of a smaller wound) or antiseptic lotion and wrap with a bandage (in case of a bigger wound).

• In case of heavy bleeding, tie a handkerchief above the wound to stop bleeding.

​(c) Following first aid should be provided for burns/scalds:

Minor Burns:

• Pour plenty of cold water immediately over it.

• Apply an anti-burn ointment.

• Immediate home remedies:

  • Apply baking soda mixed with water

  • Apply the paste of turmeric and milk

  • Apply the paste of raw potato

Severe Burns:

• In case clothes of a person catch fire, cover the person with a blanket and make the person roll over the ground in order to put out the fire.

• Make the person lie down in an open space.

• Remove the burnt clothes that are not sticking to the body.

• Give him plenty of water to drink.

• Apply anti-burn ointment on the burn.

​(d) Following first aid should be provided for snakebite:

• Keep the person calm and restrict any movement.

• Do not make him eat or drink anything.

• Tightly tie a handkerchief above the bite to prevent the poison from spreading and reaching the heart or the nervous system.

• Seek medical attention immediately.

​(e) Following first aid should be provided for sunstroke:

• Make the person sit in the shade or a cool place.

• Cover the body with cool damp sheets.

• Make the person drink plenty of water or liquids.

• Apply cooling measures like ice towels.