First Aid Tips Everyone Should Know Part 2

This Blog is to help educate the reader on how to react in case of an emergency. One of the main concerns at Cogbill Construction is making sure our employees are working in a safe environment. We provided our employees with a First aid and CPR certification class, to ensure that in case of an emergency we are prepared. We have eight employees that are CPR and First aid certified, three in the office, two in the field and three in the shop.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR):

When preparing to perform CPR first check to see if the victim is unresponsive or not breathing normally. Make sure person is lying on a flat surface. Put the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, and your other hand on top. Push down at least 2 inches at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, counting out loud. Giving 2 breaths is optional every 30 compressions. If you prefer not to give breaths, continue compressions.

First Aid for a Minor Injury:

Call 9-1-1 if there is a lot of bleeding, you cannot stop the bleeding, you see signs of shock or you are not sure what to do. If the victim is bleeding wear the proper personal protective equipment such as gloves, this could save your life in the case of blood borne pathogens. Apply dressing (gauze/cloth) over the bleeding area with pressure from your palm. DO NOT REMOVE DRESSING. Once the bleeding has stopped wrap a bandage firmly over dressing to hold in place. In the case of Amputation call 9-1-1 first and wear the proper PPE before helping the victim. Stop the bleeding with very firm pressure. If you have the amputated part rinse with clean water, cover with a clean dressing, then place in a sealed plastic bag. Place the plastic bag in a labeled container with ice and water.

Medical Emergencies:

In situations where a victim is experiencing Cardiac Arrest or a Heart Attack call 9-1-1 immediately. If the person has no allergies have them chew and swallow an aspirin. If the person becomes Unresponsive be prepared to administer CPR. In the case of the victim experiencing Low Blood Sugar have the victim eat or drink something with sure, sit or lie down and stay calm, if they do not improve within 15 minutes call 9-1-1.

“Safety doesn’t happen by accident” -Unknown

Written by: Heather Folk

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