Physical Education

Need and Importance of First Aid

Accidents happen, always unexpectedly, having a basic knowledge of first aid is just being wise. In any medical emergency situations, following proper first aid procedures is highly critical in helping alleviating pain and possibly saving lives of victims. This includes emergency scene management and the skill to promptly assess the situation in order to provide adequate and appropriate response.

Basic Life Support
Atmospheric air that is essential for life contains approximately 21% oxygen. When you breathe in (inhale) only a quarter of the air is taken by the blood in the lungs. The air you breathe out (exhale) contains approximately 16% oxygen. Enough to support life! Seconds after being deprived of oxygen, the heart is at risk of developing irregular beats or stopping. Within four to six minutes, the brain is subject to irreversible damage.
Basic life support is maintenance of the ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation) without auxiliary equipment. The primary importance is placed on establishing and maintaining an adequate open airway. Airway obstruction alone may be the emergency: a shipmate begins choking on a piece of food. Restore breathing to reverse respiratory arrest (stopped breathing) commonly caused by electric shock, drowning, head injuries, and allergic reactions. Restore circulation to keep blood circulating and carrying oxygen to the heart, lungs, brain, and body.