First Aid: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Bee Sting
Bee stings are either annoyingly painful or deadly, depending on whether you are allergic to the venom. The best way to reduce any reaction to the venom is to remove the bee stinger as quickly as possible.
Bee stings are either annoyingly painful or deadly, depending on whether you are allergic to the venom. The best way to reduce any reaction to the venom is to remove the bee stinger as quickly as possible.
Spider Bites
Spiders get a pretty bad rap in the world of first aid. Plenty of red, raised welts have been identified, either correctly or incorrectly, as spider bites. Despite the belief by many victims that spiders are responsible for their pain, spider bites are often harmless. Indeed, most spider bites go unnoticed and untreated.
Spiders get a pretty bad rap in the world of first aid. Plenty of red, raised welts have been identified, either correctly or incorrectly, as spider bites. Despite the belief by many victims that spiders are responsible for their pain, spider bites are often harmless. Indeed, most spider bites go unnoticed and untreated.
Burn Treatment
Burns destroy skin and lead to complications. Learn how to treat a burn before you need to.
Burns destroy skin and lead to complications. Learn how to treat a burn before you need to.
Short of Breath
Being short of breath (otherwise known as dyspnea or difficulty breathing) is one of the scariest conditions. Responding to most victims complaining of shortness of breath requires calling 911 and supporting them until the ambulance can arrive.
Being short of breath (otherwise known as dyspnea or difficulty breathing) is one of the scariest conditions. Responding to most victims complaining of shortness of breath requires calling 911 and supporting them until the ambulance can arrive.
Treat Bug Bites
Bug bites and stings can be painful but are rarely fatal. Learn how to respond to bug bites and stings
Bug bites and stings can be painful but are rarely fatal. Learn how to respond to bug bites and stings
Sunburn Treatment
Sunburns are a little different than other types of burns, but the treatment is very similar. Learn how to treat a sunburn before you need to.
Sunburns are a little different than other types of burns, but the treatment is very similar. Learn how to treat a sunburn before you need to.
How to Do CPR
There is no substitute for training, but here are the basic steps to do CPR.
There is no substitute for training, but here are the basic steps to do CPR.
Nausea Causes
Several conditions cause nausea. Look at these symptoms to help determine the causes of nausea.
Several conditions cause nausea. Look at these symptoms to help determine the causes of nausea.
Anaphylaxis First Aid
One of the most dangerous medical conditions is a severe allergy called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can potentially affect as much as 15 percent of the population and is commonly fatal. Know how to recognize and treat anaphylaxis.
One of the most dangerous medical conditions is a severe allergy called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can potentially affect as much as 15 percent of the population and is commonly fatal. Know how to recognize and treat anaphylaxis.
Jellyfish Sting
Jellyfish stings come from the long tenticles that trail the bell-shaped jellyfish. These tenticles have an alkali-based venom. The most dangerous reaction to a jellyfish sting is the possibility of severe allergic reaction.
Jellyfish stings come from the long tenticles that trail the bell-shaped jellyfish. These tenticles have an alkali-based venom. The most dangerous reaction to a jellyfish sting is the possibility of severe allergic reaction.
Diarrhea Treatment
Treating diarrhea at home is mostly about waiting, but a few things will help slow down diarrhea, or at least shorten the pain it can cause.
Treating diarrhea at home is mostly about waiting, but a few things will help slow down diarrhea, or at least shorten the pain it can cause.
Dehydration Symptoms
Recognizing dehydration symptoms is vital to get victims of dehydration the help they need quickly.
Recognizing dehydration symptoms is vital to get victims of dehydration the help they need quickly.
Stitches
Wound care starts with bleeding control and ends with medical attention. Learn to identify open wounds that need stitches. Answer the question: do I need stitches?
Wound care starts with bleeding control and ends with medical attention. Learn to identify open wounds that need stitches. Answer the question: do I need stitches?
How to Stop Bleeding
Most bleeding can be controlled before the ambulance gets there. Here are the steps to control bleeding.
Most bleeding can be controlled before the ambulance gets there. Here are the steps to control bleeding.
Dandruff
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Dog Bite Treatment
As much as humans interact with canines, dog bites are common, especially in children. Responding to a dog bite should always start with the safety of all involved, including the victim, the rescuer, and if possible, the dog.
As much as humans interact with canines, dog bites are common, especially in children. Responding to a dog bite should always start with the safety of all involved, including the victim, the rescuer, and if possible, the dog.
ABC's of First Aid
There is no substitute for hands-on first aid training. But just in case you are challenged with someone in need and haven't had CPR or first aid classes, follow these basic steps.
There is no substitute for hands-on first aid training. But just in case you are challenged with someone in need and haven't had CPR or first aid classes, follow these basic steps.
Become a Medic
Becoming a paramedic is different in every state, but there are certain similarities. Here are the usual steps to get the traininig needed to become a paramedic.
Becoming a paramedic is different in every state, but there are certain similarities. Here are the usual steps to get the traininig needed to become a paramedic.
Vertigo Causes
Vertigo is a sign that the brain or the ear is ill or injured. Learn about causes of vertigo that are potentially life-threatening, and some causes of vertigo that are not.
Vertigo is a sign that the brain or the ear is ill or injured. Learn about causes of vertigo that are potentially life-threatening, and some causes of vertigo that are not.
Splinter Removal
Splinters can become infected if not removed. Some splinter will work their way out without removal, but if you don't want to wait, learn how to remove a splinter.
Splinters can become infected if not removed. Some splinter will work their way out without removal, but if you don't want to wait, learn how to remove a splinter.
Removing a Tick
How to remove a tick and look for Lyme disease.
How to remove a tick and look for Lyme disease.
Stinger Under the Skin
Only a few species of bee have barbed stingers. The bees with sharply barbed stingers that leave behind a venom sac and stinger are female worker honey bees. A few yellowjackets also have small barbs on their stingers, but they're not big enough to catch in the skin.
Only a few species of bee have barbed stingers. The bees with sharply barbed stingers that leave behind a venom sac and stinger are female worker honey bees. A few yellowjackets also have small barbs on their stingers, but they're not big enough to catch in the skin.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is caused by an increase in core body temperature often coupled with fluid loss. It's important to recognize heat exhaustion early and seek treatment as quickly as possible.
Heat exhaustion is caused by an increase in core body temperature often coupled with fluid loss. It's important to recognize heat exhaustion early and seek treatment as quickly as possible.
Head Lice Treatment
Pictorial showing head lice treatment. How to recognize nits, apply shampoo and comb nits away. Head lice aren't as scary as our parents thought they were. Getting rid of head lice shouldn't be too hard.
Pictorial showing head lice treatment. How to recognize nits, apply shampoo and comb nits away. Head lice aren't as scary as our parents thought they were. Getting rid of head lice shouldn't be too hard.
Head Lice Nit
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Shortness of Breath Causes
Anything that interferes with breathing leads to too little oxygen and too much carbon dioxide in the blood. Shortness of breath also comes from a sudden demand for oxygen in the body through exercise or stress. Learn about the variety of reasons one might have difficulty breathing and experience shortness of breath.
Anything that interferes with breathing leads to too little oxygen and too much carbon dioxide in the blood. Shortness of breath also comes from a sudden demand for oxygen in the body through exercise or stress. Learn about the variety of reasons one might have difficulty breathing and experience shortness of breath.
Anti-Nausea Steps
Anti-nausea treatment is not an exact science. Pregnancy, vertigo, motion sickness, digestive infections (such as food poisoning), reactions to medication and alcohol are probably the most common causes of nausea, but there are many others.
Anti-nausea treatment is not an exact science. Pregnancy, vertigo, motion sickness, digestive infections (such as food poisoning), reactions to medication and alcohol are probably the most common causes of nausea, but there are many others.
Female Head Louse
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out head lice not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out head lice not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Cat Bite Treatment
As much as humans interact with felines, cat bites are common injuries, especially in children. Responding to a cat bite should always start with the safety of all involved, including the victim, the rescuer, and if possible, the cat.
As much as humans interact with felines, cat bites are common injuries, especially in children. Responding to a cat bite should always start with the safety of all involved, including the victim, the rescuer, and if possible, the cat.
First Aid Myths
It's time to dispel some of the most common myths in first aid lore. Read on to see the worst first aid ideas, demystified with the correct response to each emergency.
It's time to dispel some of the most common myths in first aid lore. Read on to see the worst first aid ideas, demystified with the correct response to each emergency.
Burn Depth
Determining the severity of a burn includes establishing how deep the damage goes into or through the skin. Burn thickness in most burn units is classified by degree -- the higher the number, the worse the burn.
Determining the severity of a burn includes establishing how deep the damage goes into or through the skin. Burn thickness in most burn units is classified by degree -- the higher the number, the worse the burn.
Looking Into the Nit
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
First Aid Kits
It's a good idea to have a first aid kit on hand. Here are the contents you should keep in your first aid kit.
It's a good idea to have a first aid kit on hand. Here are the contents you should keep in your first aid kit.
When to Call 911
Not sure when to call 911? These tips will help you understand when to call for an ambulance.
Not sure when to call 911? These tips will help you understand when to call for an ambulance.
Treat Snake Bites
North America is home to several different species of venomous snakes. The two most common are pit vipers (rattlesnakes) and coral snakes (elapids). Snake bites can be deadly. It's important to react quickly to bites.
North America is home to several different species of venomous snakes. The two most common are pit vipers (rattlesnakes) and coral snakes (elapids). Snake bites can be deadly. It's important to react quickly to bites.
Grease Fires
Grease fires are extremely dangerous because the fuel source (the grease) is a liquid, and easily splashed. Grease fire burn very hot and can quickly spread to cabinets or other flammable areas of the kitchen. Follow these steps when faced with a grease fire in your kitchen.
Grease fires are extremely dangerous because the fuel source (the grease) is a liquid, and easily splashed. Grease fire burn very hot and can quickly spread to cabinets or other flammable areas of the kitchen. Follow these steps when faced with a grease fire in your kitchen.
First Aid Quick Reference
This handbook of first aid will help lay rescuers with basic first aid and cpr needs.
This handbook of first aid will help lay rescuers with basic first aid and cpr needs.
Urine on Jellyfish Sting
Will urine work on a jellyfish sting help to relieve the pain?
Will urine work on a jellyfish sting help to relieve the pain?
EMT vs Paramedic
The media regularly interchanges the terms "EMT" and "paramedic" in stories.What's the difference? Understand the differences and the similarities between paramedics and EMTs.
The media regularly interchanges the terms "EMT" and "paramedic" in stories.What's the difference? Understand the differences and the similarities between paramedics and EMTs.
Nosebleed
Nosebleeds are a common concern with kids, as well as adults. Spontaneous nosebleeds can be a sign of hypertension or a precursor to stroke. Learn how to treat a nosebleed.
Nosebleeds are a common concern with kids, as well as adults. Spontaneous nosebleeds can be a sign of hypertension or a precursor to stroke. Learn how to treat a nosebleed.
Infant CPR
There is no substitute for proper training. However, emergencies wait for no one. Use these steps to provide CPR to babies under 1 year old.
There is no substitute for proper training. However, emergencies wait for no one. Use these steps to provide CPR to babies under 1 year old.
Heart Attacks in Women
Heart attacks have long been thought to look different in men vs women, but is that true? If it is true, does it even matter?
Heart attacks have long been thought to look different in men vs women, but is that true? If it is true, does it even matter?
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a severe emergency that leads to coma and possibly death. It's important to recognize heat stroke and to stop heat stroke before it leads to irreversible damage.
Heat stroke is a severe emergency that leads to coma and possibly death. It's important to recognize heat stroke and to stop heat stroke before it leads to irreversible damage.
Calling 911 on a Cell Phone
Calling 911 on a cell phone means the officials who answer might not know where to find you. Here you'll learn important steps to make sure you get the help you need before it's too late.
Calling 911 on a cell phone means the officials who answer might not know where to find you. Here you'll learn important steps to make sure you get the help you need before it's too late.
Deliver a Baby
If you know someone who is pregnant, find out how to deliver a baby before you have to.
If you know someone who is pregnant, find out how to deliver a baby before you have to.
Finger Cuts
First aid for cut fingers or other minor wounds mean keeping the injury clean more than stopping bleeding. These simple injuries can be treated at home with little more than an adhesive bandage and some soap.
First aid for cut fingers or other minor wounds mean keeping the injury clean more than stopping bleeding. These simple injuries can be treated at home with little more than an adhesive bandage and some soap.
First Aid Quiz
Try your hand at this quiz on basic first aid topics.
Try your hand at this quiz on basic first aid topics.
Rat Poison
Most rat poisons use blood thinners to cause internal bleeding in rats, mice, and other rodents. Touching rat poison is safe, but ingesting it can lead to bleeding. Learn symptoms and first aid for rat poison.
Most rat poisons use blood thinners to cause internal bleeding in rats, mice, and other rodents. Touching rat poison is safe, but ingesting it can lead to bleeding. Learn symptoms and first aid for rat poison.
Child CPR
There is no substitute for proper CPR training. However, emergencies wait for no one. Use these steps to provide CPR to children 1 to 8 years old.
There is no substitute for proper CPR training. However, emergencies wait for no one. Use these steps to provide CPR to children 1 to 8 years old.
Birth of a Head Louse
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Head lice get a pretty bad rap around the schoolyard. It turns out that head lice is not as bad as you might think, and head lice certainly don't spread as easily as school officials may have you believe.
Splinting a Broken Arm
Splinting a broken arm is more art than science. These images help illustrate the use of a cardboard splint to immobilize a broken forearm. Assess the arm to find the broken bone. Make sure the arm has feeling, movement, and circulation before splinting.
Splinting a broken arm is more art than science. These images help illustrate the use of a cardboard splint to immobilize a broken forearm. Assess the arm to find the broken bone. Make sure the arm has feeling, movement, and circulation before splinting.
Bleach & Ammonia
Chlorine gas is released when ammonia and bleach are mixed together. With all the cleaning agents that contain either bleach or ammonia, exposure to chlorine gas is quite common. It's important to know what to do if it happens.
Chlorine gas is released when ammonia and bleach are mixed together. With all the cleaning agents that contain either bleach or ammonia, exposure to chlorine gas is quite common. It's important to know what to do if it happens.
Fall Sports Dangers
Fall sports are some of the most dangerous. Students are just getting back to school and many end their summers on the soccer field or drilling twice a day for football. The heat and the long summer break leave players out of shape for the hard-hitting early season. These are some of the dangers fall athletes can expect to weather.
Fall sports are some of the most dangerous. Students are just getting back to school and many end their summers on the soccer field or drilling twice a day for football. The heat and the long summer break leave players out of shape for the hard-hitting early season. These are some of the dangers fall athletes can expect to weather.
Gunshot Wounds
Gunshot wounds are unpredictable puncture wounds that cause major tissue damage. Three factors work together to determine the severity of a gunshot wound: location, mass and velocity of the projectile.
Gunshot wounds are unpredictable puncture wounds that cause major tissue damage. Three factors work together to determine the severity of a gunshot wound: location, mass and velocity of the projectile.
Causes of Fainting
Fainting (syncope) is a sudden loss of consciousness from a lack of blood flow to the brain. Victims usually wake up quickly after collapsing.
Fainting (syncope) is a sudden loss of consciousness from a lack of blood flow to the brain. Victims usually wake up quickly after collapsing.
COPD Definition
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease characterised by an inability to normally move air in and out of the lungs. Unlike in patients with asthma, airflow limitation in patients with COPD is not fully reversible.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease characterised by an inability to normally move air in and out of the lungs. Unlike in patients with asthma, airflow limitation in patients with COPD is not fully reversible.
Dress a Wound
Dressing wounds can be done at home. Most lacerations and abrasions can be handled at home without ever going to the emergency room. To take care of wounds at home, they must be cleaned and may need to be dressed.
Dressing wounds can be done at home. Most lacerations and abrasions can be handled at home without ever going to the emergency room. To take care of wounds at home, they must be cleaned and may need to be dressed.
Shortness of Breath Symptoms
Victims of shortness of breath look like they've just finished running uphill. Still, the way to really tell if someone is having trouble breathing is to ask him. Regardless of the cause of shortness of breath, the only way for the body to get more oxygen is to get more air.
Victims of shortness of breath look like they've just finished running uphill. Still, the way to really tell if someone is having trouble breathing is to ask him. Regardless of the cause of shortness of breath, the only way for the body to get more oxygen is to get more air.
Hyperventilation Symptoms
Hyperventilation syndrome is very scary, but not life-threatening. It can be hard to tell hyperventilation syndrome apart from other causes of shortness of breath.
Hyperventilation syndrome is very scary, but not life-threatening. It can be hard to tell hyperventilation syndrome apart from other causes of shortness of breath.
Burn Calculations
Measuring the size of a burn is difficult because every person is different in size, shape and weight. A square foot of burned surface area is much worse to a person who weighs 130 pounds than it is to someone who weighs 200 pounds.
Measuring the size of a burn is difficult because every person is different in size, shape and weight. A square foot of burned surface area is much worse to a person who weighs 130 pounds than it is to someone who weighs 200 pounds.
First Aid Kit Drugs
When picking medications for first aid kits and medicine cabinets, it's important to get the right kinds of drugs and avoid extras. Learn about pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and other classes of medications.
When picking medications for first aid kits and medicine cabinets, it's important to get the right kinds of drugs and avoid extras. Learn about pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and other classes of medications.
Universal Precautions
Professional rescuers follow universal precautions to avoid infection when caring for medical emergency victims. Lay rescuers should do the same.
Professional rescuers follow universal precautions to avoid infection when caring for medical emergency victims. Lay rescuers should do the same.
Stingray First Aid
Stingrays are found on the sandy floor of the ocean and are usually docile. Stingrays are, however, capable of a painful and sometimes dangerous sting. Know how to treat stingray stings.
Stingrays are found on the sandy floor of the ocean and are usually docile. Stingrays are, however, capable of a painful and sometimes dangerous sting. Know how to treat stingray stings.
Head Injury
A closed head injury is an injury to the brain inside an intact skull. Injury to the brain causes swelling, which quickly increases the pressure within the skull (intracranial pressure). Closed head injury comes from a blunt object (including the ground) striking the head.
A closed head injury is an injury to the brain inside an intact skull. Injury to the brain causes swelling, which quickly increases the pressure within the skull (intracranial pressure). Closed head injury comes from a blunt object (including the ground) striking the head.
Heart Attack Symptoms
Heart attack symptoms often follow a common pattern, but trust your gut. If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of a heart attack, typical or not, it is important that you call 911 immediately.
Heart attack symptoms often follow a common pattern, but trust your gut. If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of a heart attack, typical or not, it is important that you call 911 immediately.
Abnormal Blood Pressure
Measuring blood pressure at home leads to questions about odd readings. You may wonder what to do if you get a particularly high reading (hypertension) - or a particularly low one (hypotension). The answer is definitely: it depends.
Measuring blood pressure at home leads to questions about odd readings. You may wonder what to do if you get a particularly high reading (hypertension) - or a particularly low one (hypotension). The answer is definitely: it depends.
DVT Symptoms
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a vein deep below the surface of the skin. If a DVT breaks loose and travels to the lungs it is called a pulmonary embolism (PE).
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a vein deep below the surface of the skin. If a DVT breaks loose and travels to the lungs it is called a pulmonary embolism (PE).
Sun Exposure
Spending too much time in the sun can have serious repercussions. Heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sunburn are all problems.
Spending too much time in the sun can have serious repercussions. Heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sunburn are all problems.
Salmonella Poisoning
Salmonella infections account for approximately 600 deaths in the US each year. There are more than 40,000 cases of Salmonella infection every year. Learn about Salmonella.
Salmonella infections account for approximately 600 deaths in the US each year. There are more than 40,000 cases of Salmonella infection every year. Learn about Salmonella.
Good 911 Tips
Calling 911 during an emergency can be very stressful. It's important to stay calm when calling 911.
Calling 911 during an emergency can be very stressful. It's important to stay calm when calling 911.
Rat Bites
Rats and other rodents have a nasty bite that can lead to a serious infection. Care should always be taken to contain any rodent after a bite to determine if the animal has an infection.
Rats and other rodents have a nasty bite that can lead to a serious infection. Care should always be taken to contain any rodent after a bite to determine if the animal has an infection.
What is First Aid?
The answer to this question is not as easy as it seems. "First aid" is a catch-all phrase that refers to two distinctly different medical needs.
The answer to this question is not as easy as it seems. "First aid" is a catch-all phrase that refers to two distinctly different medical needs.
Shock Treatment
Uncontrolled bleeding can lead to shock. Shock can lead to death if not treated quickly. Learn what shock is and how to treat it.
Uncontrolled bleeding can lead to shock. Shock can lead to death if not treated quickly. Learn what shock is and how to treat it.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is loose, watery stools occurring more than three times in one day. It usually goes away on its own without any special treatment. However, prolonged diarrhea can be a sign of other problems.
Diarrhea is loose, watery stools occurring more than three times in one day. It usually goes away on its own without any special treatment. However, prolonged diarrhea can be a sign of other problems.
Black Eye First Aid
Black eyes are fairly common and the first aid for a black eye is very simple. However, black eyes can indicate serious injury, especially if there are two black eyes appearing at the same time.
Black eyes are fairly common and the first aid for a black eye is very simple. However, black eyes can indicate serious injury, especially if there are two black eyes appearing at the same time.
Broken Bones
Even though a victim can use an extremity or bear weight on it, it may still be broken. Treat all extremity injuries as fractures until proven otherwise.
Even though a victim can use an extremity or bear weight on it, it may still be broken. Treat all extremity injuries as fractures until proven otherwise.
Severe Burns
There are several factors used to determine if a burn is critical enough to necessitate a specialty burn center. Any burn that matches the criteria warrants a call to 911.
There are several factors used to determine if a burn is critical enough to necessitate a specialty burn center. Any burn that matches the criteria warrants a call to 911.
Hands-Only CPR
These steps are the American Heart Association's recommendations for providing hands-only CPR.
These steps are the American Heart Association's recommendations for providing hands-only CPR.
First Aid Kit Tour
The descriptions of first aid kits all list the same items, but what do you do with those items? Here is a description of everything in a first aid kit and when it should be used.
The descriptions of first aid kits all list the same items, but what do you do with those items? Here is a description of everything in a first aid kit and when it should be used.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is a nearly undetectable gas capable of being deadly, even in very small amounts. Treatment requires emergency services or a visit to the emergency department. Recognizing carbon monoxide poisoning is vital to getting help in time.
Carbon monoxide is a nearly undetectable gas capable of being deadly, even in very small amounts. Treatment requires emergency services or a visit to the emergency department. Recognizing carbon monoxide poisoning is vital to getting help in time.
Hyponatremia First Aid
Water intoxication, or hyponatremia, happens when victims drink water faster than they can process it. Often a result of hydration during exercise, hyponatremia can appear just like severe dehydration.
Water intoxication, or hyponatremia, happens when victims drink water faster than they can process it. Often a result of hydration during exercise, hyponatremia can appear just like severe dehydration.
Ladder Safety
With the right ladder and proper use, working above ground level should be no problem. Make sure you have an appropriate ladder and use correct technique for placement and climbing.
With the right ladder and proper use, working above ground level should be no problem. Make sure you have an appropriate ladder and use correct technique for placement and climbing.
Top First Aid Items
Every first aid kit evolves as items are added or subtracted. No matter how each one turns out, there are certain items that every first aid kit should have.
Every first aid kit evolves as items are added or subtracted. No matter how each one turns out, there are certain items that every first aid kit should have.
Before taking CPR
Not all CPR classes are the same. Learn about CPR class levels and training program standards.
Not all CPR classes are the same. Learn about CPR class levels and training program standards.
Take a Pulse
The pulse is the surge of blood that is pushed through the arteries when the heart beats, and is a vital sign that can tell a lot about a person's medical condition.
The pulse is the surge of blood that is pushed through the arteries when the heart beats, and is a vital sign that can tell a lot about a person's medical condition.
Stuck Ring
The binding of the ring around the finger may act as a tourniquet and cause permanent damage to the finger if not removed promptly. A ring may be removed without medical intervention. Do not attempt ring removal if the finger is blue or purple, injured, or if there is no feeling in the finger.
The binding of the ring around the finger may act as a tourniquet and cause permanent damage to the finger if not removed promptly. A ring may be removed without medical intervention. Do not attempt ring removal if the finger is blue or purple, injured, or if there is no feeling in the finger.
Scorpion Sting Treatment
Bark scorpions live in Arizona, California and New Mexico. Bark scorpion stings are dangerous and treatment should be quick.
Bark scorpions live in Arizona, California and New Mexico. Bark scorpion stings are dangerous and treatment should be quick.
Food Poisoning
Abdominal pain and nausea caused by foodborne bacteria is commonly misnamed food poisoning. Food poisoning can cause severe pain, nausea, and diarrhea in victims. The effects of food poisoning can lead to serious dehydration.
Abdominal pain and nausea caused by foodborne bacteria is commonly misnamed food poisoning. Food poisoning can cause severe pain, nausea, and diarrhea in victims. The effects of food poisoning can lead to serious dehydration.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain can have many causes, and some can be life-threatening. Learn the many causes of abdominal pain.
Abdominal pain can have many causes, and some can be life-threatening. Learn the many causes of abdominal pain.
Broken Leg
Broken bones can range from simply painful to life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken leg.
Broken bones can range from simply painful to life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken leg.
Broken arm
Broken arms are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken arm.
Broken arms are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken arm.
Asthma Definition
Asthma is a medical condition that causes narrowing of the small airways in the lungs. Typically, asthma patients develop wheezing and have increased mucous production in their lungs. Asthma patients can have episodes of increased shortness of breath, often triggered by allergic reactions. Asthma sufferers often have the disease for many years, and the episodes of shortness of breath can be life-threatening.
Asthma is a medical condition that causes narrowing of the small airways in the lungs. Typically, asthma patients develop wheezing and have increased mucous production in their lungs. Asthma patients can have episodes of increased shortness of breath, often triggered by allergic reactions. Asthma sufferers often have the disease for many years, and the episodes of shortness of breath can be life-threatening.
Laceration First Aid
A laceration is a cut in the skin from a sharp object. Control bleeding and clean a laceration before anything else.
A laceration is a cut in the skin from a sharp object. Control bleeding and clean a laceration before anything else.
Puncture Wound
Puncture wounds can be serious if deep enough. The most important considerations are bleeding control and infection.
Puncture wounds can be serious if deep enough. The most important considerations are bleeding control and infection.
Frostbite Treatment
Frostbite can result in the loss of limbs, ears, noses, and other body parts. Learn How to Treat Frostbite.
Frostbite can result in the loss of limbs, ears, noses, and other body parts. Learn How to Treat Frostbite.
First Aid Law Quiz
Take a quiz to test your knowledge on first aid law.
Take a quiz to test your knowledge on first aid law.
Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest and heart attack are often mistaken for one another. What is the difference?
Cardiac arrest and heart attack are often mistaken for one another. What is the difference?
Broken Ankle
Broken ankles are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken ankle.
Broken ankles are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken ankle.
PPE Items
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is used by every healthcare provider to decrease the potential for infection. Here are the most common items used for personal protective equipment.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is used by every healthcare provider to decrease the potential for infection. Here are the most common items used for personal protective equipment.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia can range from mild chills and shivering to coma and death. Recongize hypothermia signs before it's too late.
Hypothermia can range from mild chills and shivering to coma and death. Recongize hypothermia signs before it's too late.
Blister Treatment
Drain and dress blisters to minimize injury. Follow these steps.
Drain and dress blisters to minimize injury. Follow these steps.
Weakness
Generalized weakness is one of the most common medical complaints of seniors. There are several causes of generalized weakness. Learn about generalized weakness
Generalized weakness is one of the most common medical complaints of seniors. There are several causes of generalized weakness. Learn about generalized weakness
No First Aid Kit Needed
Most basic first aid either doesn't require tools or can be done with items found around the house. These first aid tips don't require a first aid kit.
Most basic first aid either doesn't require tools or can be done with items found around the house. These first aid tips don't require a first aid kit.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the pressure exerted against blood vessel walls by the blood as it flows through them. Because of the way arteries and veins are used by the circulatory system, arterial walls are much thicker and withstand higher pressures than venous walls do. When we measure blood pressure, we are measuring the pressure in the arteries.
Blood pressure is the pressure exerted against blood vessel walls by the blood as it flows through them. Because of the way arteries and veins are used by the circulatory system, arterial walls are much thicker and withstand higher pressures than venous walls do. When we measure blood pressure, we are measuring the pressure in the arteries.
Hyperventilation Syndrome
Hyperventilation syndrome is not life-threatening, but can lead to a significant decrease in carbon dioxide. Hyperventilation syndrome is scary and leads to increased anxiety, which makes the hyperventilation syndrome worse.
Hyperventilation syndrome is not life-threatening, but can lead to a significant decrease in carbon dioxide. Hyperventilation syndrome is scary and leads to increased anxiety, which makes the hyperventilation syndrome worse.
First Aid Videos
With the help of real paramedics, doctors and firefighters, About.com demonstrates first aid and safety skills you really need. Animations help illustrate how the body works when things go wrong. Use these videos to learn about first aid.
With the help of real paramedics, doctors and firefighters, About.com demonstrates first aid and safety skills you really need. Animations help illustrate how the body works when things go wrong. Use these videos to learn about first aid.
Worst 911 Calls
Sometimes 911 is not the number to call. 911 is for emergencies only.
Sometimes 911 is not the number to call. 911 is for emergencies only.
Poisons
There are several household items that can lead to poisoning. It is very important to keep children away from these substances and to use caution when working with possible poisons.
There are several household items that can lead to poisoning. It is very important to keep children away from these substances and to use caution when working with possible poisons.
Anaphylactic Shock Symptoms
Anaphylactic shock symptoms depend on the type of reaction. Recognizing anaphylactic shock symptoms may mean the difference between life and death, especially if there is no allergen identified.
Anaphylactic shock symptoms depend on the type of reaction. Recognizing anaphylactic shock symptoms may mean the difference between life and death, especially if there is no allergen identified.
Tourniquet Steps
Tie the tourniquet around the injured arm or leg, several inches above the injury (the part of the limb closer to the heart). If the injury is below the elbow or knee, it may be necessary to tie the tourniquet above the joint.
Tie the tourniquet around the injured arm or leg, several inches above the injury (the part of the limb closer to the heart). If the injury is below the elbow or knee, it may be necessary to tie the tourniquet above the joint.
Shortness of Breath Quiz
Try your hand at this quiz on shortness of breath.
Try your hand at this quiz on shortness of breath.
Child Safety Gates
Since our kids always seem to have much more energy than we do, it helps to have something to slow them down and corral them in. Child gates provide that control. Probably the most important tool to keep kids off the stairs until they're ready to climb safely.
Since our kids always seem to have much more energy than we do, it helps to have something to slow them down and corral them in. Child gates provide that control. Probably the most important tool to keep kids off the stairs until they're ready to climb safely.
No Good Samaritan
Good Samaritan laws are meant to protect lay people who, for no reason other than kindness, come to the aid of fellow human beings in need. The placement of California's Good Samaritan statute has all but rendered it useless for the very population it should protect, thanks to an appellate court ruling.
Good Samaritan laws are meant to protect lay people who, for no reason other than kindness, come to the aid of fellow human beings in need. The placement of California's Good Samaritan statute has all but rendered it useless for the very population it should protect, thanks to an appellate court ruling.
Skin Layers
The layers of the skin are a lot like the layers of soil in a flowerbed. Each has its use and all the skin layers (or soil) work together to provide nutrients and protection for the stuff growing in it.
The layers of the skin are a lot like the layers of soil in a flowerbed. Each has its use and all the skin layers (or soil) work together to provide nutrients and protection for the stuff growing in it.
Broken Wrist
Broken wrists are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken wrist.
Broken wrists are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken wrist.
First Aid 101
Basic first aid concepts and tips. Although not a substitute for first aid training, this course will provide a refresher to those who've not had training in a long time or help those without first aid training.
Basic first aid concepts and tips. Although not a substitute for first aid training, this course will provide a refresher to those who've not had training in a long time or help those without first aid training.
First Aid - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the First Aid guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the First Aid guide site.
Head Lice
Head lice are parasites that feed on human blood and bask in the warmth of the noggin. They make new baby lice by laying eggs (called nits) attached to hair follicles. The good news is that no known diseases are carried by common head lice. The bad news? Well, they're nasty and ugly little creatures that make you itch just by reading this (go ahead and scratch; I'll wait).
Head lice are parasites that feed on human blood and bask in the warmth of the noggin. They make new baby lice by laying eggs (called nits) attached to hair follicles. The good news is that no known diseases are carried by common head lice. The bad news? Well, they're nasty and ugly little creatures that make you itch just by reading this (go ahead and scratch; I'll wait).
CPR Without Breaths
Some feel that CPR in its current form is not as effective as it could be for the population most likely to benefit from it. Mouth-to-mouth is seen as the culprit. To make CPR more effective, there is a push to eliminate rescue breathing from this staple of emergency medical care.
Some feel that CPR in its current form is not as effective as it could be for the population most likely to benefit from it. Mouth-to-mouth is seen as the culprit. To make CPR more effective, there is a push to eliminate rescue breathing from this staple of emergency medical care.
Good Samaritan Laws
Good Samaritan laws protect the general public from undue liability during good faith rescue attempts. But how much liability do you really have? Find out the important facts about good Samaritan laws.
Good Samaritan laws protect the general public from undue liability during good faith rescue attempts. But how much liability do you really have? Find out the important facts about good Samaritan laws.
First Aid Burn Quiz
Take a quiz to test your knowledge on burns and burn first aid.
Take a quiz to test your knowledge on burns and burn first aid.
Broken Ribs
Kids and the elderly can get broken ribs easier than younger adults. Most broken ribs come from vehicle accidents, but they're also common from falling off horses, sports injuries and falls. In some cases, lots of forceful coughing -- like from a bout of pneumonia -- can cause rib fractures.
Kids and the elderly can get broken ribs easier than younger adults. Most broken ribs come from vehicle accidents, but they're also common from falling off horses, sports injuries and falls. In some cases, lots of forceful coughing -- like from a bout of pneumonia -- can cause rib fractures.
Cough and Cold Home Remedies
Pharmaceutical companies don't have the market cornered on all cures for that which ails you. Grandma did her part long before dextromethorphan was supposedly stopping coughs. What we didn't understand until now was that Grandma was getting it right more often than we thought. Doctors are expensive, and Grandma's cures are back en vogue.
Pharmaceutical companies don't have the market cornered on all cures for that which ails you. Grandma did her part long before dextromethorphan was supposedly stopping coughs. What we didn't understand until now was that Grandma was getting it right more often than we thought. Doctors are expensive, and Grandma's cures are back en vogue.
Insects & Spiders
Since critters that crawl, buzz, and fly are bound to be with us forever, here are some tips to deal with the inevitable battle scars.
Since critters that crawl, buzz, and fly are bound to be with us forever, here are some tips to deal with the inevitable battle scars.
Collapsed Lung Definition
Collapsed lung is a condition that causes the lining of the lung to pull away from the wall of the chest. The space between the lung and the chest fills with air, pushing the injured lung against the heart and the other lung. Collapsed lung can occur as a result of chest injury, or spontaneously in patients with lung disease.
Collapsed lung is a condition that causes the lining of the lung to pull away from the wall of the chest. The space between the lung and the chest fills with air, pushing the injured lung against the heart and the other lung. Collapsed lung can occur as a result of chest injury, or spontaneously in patients with lung disease.
Broken Foot
Broken feet are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken foot.
Broken feet are very painful and rarely life-threatening. Learn how to recognize and treat a broken foot.
Pesticide Poisoning
Pesticides are chemicals that kill unwanted insects and animals. If pesticides get onto humans, they can kill us. Learn to recognize pesticide poisoning.
Pesticides are chemicals that kill unwanted insects and animals. If pesticides get onto humans, they can kill us. Learn to recognize pesticide poisoning.
Stroke
Strokes are the third largest cause of death in the U.S. Learn to recognize stroke and respond in time to help the victim.
Strokes are the third largest cause of death in the U.S. Learn to recognize stroke and respond in time to help the victim.
OSHA Requirements
OSHA requires first aid supplies be available in the workplace and makes suggestions for implementation.
OSHA requires first aid supplies be available in the workplace and makes suggestions for implementation.
Bleach and Ammonia Outdoors
Never mix bleach and ammonia together. The combination could be deadly. Bleach and ammonia mixed together can overwhelm you even when used outside.
Never mix bleach and ammonia together. The combination could be deadly. Bleach and ammonia mixed together can overwhelm you even when used outside.
Photo Submission
Your photos are always welcome for use on About.com First Aid. Please observe the following guidelines.
Your photos are always welcome for use on About.com First Aid. Please observe the following guidelines.
MRSA
MRSA is everywhere. Literally. To find proof, just read the papers and watch TV news. Teachers swab the classroom with modified baby wipes because of MRSA. Products advertise their ability to kill MRSA. Hospital staff make huge notes on patients' charts when MRSA is present. Stickers and bands declare MRSA status for all (healthcare providers) to see.
MRSA is everywhere. Literally. To find proof, just read the papers and watch TV news. Teachers swab the classroom with modified baby wipes because of MRSA. Products advertise their ability to kill MRSA. Hospital staff make huge notes on patients' charts when MRSA is present. Stickers and bands declare MRSA status for all (healthcare providers) to see.
Cold Sore First Aid
Cold sores come from the herpes simplex virus. There's nothing you can do to shorten an outbreak, but you can make it feel better.
Cold sores come from the herpes simplex virus. There's nothing you can do to shorten an outbreak, but you can make it feel better.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is an inflammation of the throat caused by a streptococcal bacterium. Strep throat is easily passed from person to person.
Strep throat is an inflammation of the throat caused by a streptococcal bacterium. Strep throat is easily passed from person to person.
Confusion
Confusion is a sign that the brain is ill or injured. Learn about causes of confusion that are potentially life-threatening.
Confusion is a sign that the brain is ill or injured. Learn about causes of confusion that are potentially life-threatening.
Heart Attack vs Stroke
Brain attack or AMI? Whatever terms you use, one is in the brain and the other is in the heart. Learn the difference between a heart attack and a stroke.
Brain attack or AMI? Whatever terms you use, one is in the brain and the other is in the heart. Learn the difference between a heart attack and a stroke.
Choking Infant
There's no substitute for proper training when it comes to saving an infant from choking. However, emergencies don't wait for training. Follow these steps for a choking infant under 1 year old.
There's no substitute for proper training when it comes to saving an infant from choking. However, emergencies don't wait for training. Follow these steps for a choking infant under 1 year old.
Hypoglycemia
The most common emergency diabetic patients face is hypoglycemia -- too little sugar in the bloodstream. Know how to react and you could reverse this life-threatening condition.
The most common emergency diabetic patients face is hypoglycemia -- too little sugar in the bloodstream. Know how to react and you could reverse this life-threatening condition.
Teaching Kids 911
Teaching kids to call 911 is similar to teaching adults. The basic tenets are the same: Know when to call, make sure the call-taker knows where you are located and don't hang up. Teaching kids to call 911 should start as soon as they can play with the phone.
Teaching kids to call 911 is similar to teaching adults. The basic tenets are the same: Know when to call, make sure the call-taker knows where you are located and don't hang up. Teaching kids to call 911 should start as soon as they can play with the phone.
Drowning Rescue
When victims panic in water it can be very dangerous to try rescuing them. Follow these steps to rescue a drowning victim.
When victims panic in water it can be very dangerous to try rescuing them. Follow these steps to rescue a drowning victim.
Black Widow Bites
From a reader: My 20 year old son was bitten by a black widow the other day. He had all the symptons, went to ER and was given morphine via IV for pain, ALL day long! Doctors did not find anything in his blood. Why not?
From a reader: My 20 year old son was bitten by a black widow the other day. He had all the symptons, went to ER and was given morphine via IV for pain, ALL day long! Doctors did not find anything in his blood. Why not?
Hyperventilating in Paper Bags
Hyperventilating into a paper bag? The answer is definitely no -- unless your doctor tells you to.
Hyperventilating into a paper bag? The answer is definitely no -- unless your doctor tells you to.
Take Chest Pain to the ER
Chest pain is one of a few medical complaints that always need emergency medical care, and should never be seen at a doctor's office.
Chest pain is one of a few medical complaints that always need emergency medical care, and should never be seen at a doctor's office.
Heart Attack Myths
There are several misconceptions about heart attacks. Each may delay recognition of potentially fatal heart attacks and life-saving treatment.
There are several misconceptions about heart attacks. Each may delay recognition of potentially fatal heart attacks and life-saving treatment.
BP Monitors
There is a growing trend of measuring blood pressure trends. This can help people with hypertension (high blood pressure) work with their doctors to better control their blood pressure. These blood pressure monitors make it easy to measure your blood pressure at home.
There is a growing trend of measuring blood pressure trends. This can help people with hypertension (high blood pressure) work with their doctors to better control their blood pressure. These blood pressure monitors make it easy to measure your blood pressure at home.
Too Much Alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol leads to hangovers and sometimes heartache. Learn about the dangers of drinking too much alcohol.
Drinking too much alcohol leads to hangovers and sometimes heartache. Learn about the dangers of drinking too much alcohol.
Sprain First Aid
Sprains can often be treated at home with the proper care. Learn how to treat a sprain.
Sprains can often be treated at home with the proper care. Learn how to treat a sprain.
Kitchen Cuts
Cutting yourself with a knife in the kitchen during food prep is the best and worst place to get a cut. Lots of bacteria, but soap and water nearby.
Cutting yourself with a knife in the kitchen during food prep is the best and worst place to get a cut. Lots of bacteria, but soap and water nearby.
Illegal 911
To call 911 for any purpose other than to report an emergency could result in criminal penalties. Each state has different penalties for 911 misuse, but in most cases, abuse can lead to jail time and stiff fines.
To call 911 for any purpose other than to report an emergency could result in criminal penalties. Each state has different penalties for 911 misuse, but in most cases, abuse can lead to jail time and stiff fines.
Ski and Snowboard Injuries
Whether you like to ski or snowboard (or one of the dozens of other types of gravity-related snow transport devices) there's always a chance of injury. Overall, less than 4 injuries happen for every 1,000 days of skiing or snowboarding, which isn't bad. Of course, some of those injuries are pretty major -- and some are even life-threatening.
Whether you like to ski or snowboard (or one of the dozens of other types of gravity-related snow transport devices) there's always a chance of injury. Overall, less than 4 injuries happen for every 1,000 days of skiing or snowboarding, which isn't bad. Of course, some of those injuries are pretty major -- and some are even life-threatening.