Emergency First Aid: Throat Anatomy and Response

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of an improvised face shield in emergency first aid?

To protect the rescuer from infection (correct)

To protect the casualty from further injury

To support the casualty's neck

To maintain the casualty's airway

What is the primary function of the trachea in throat anatomy?

To aid in swallowing

To provide a pathway for air into the lungs (correct)

To facilitate speaking

To regulate heartbeat

What is the recommended position for supporting a casualty with angina?

Standing with knees slightly bent

Sitting upright with legs straight

Lying flat with legs elevated

Lazy W position with legs supported and bent (correct)

What is the primary cause of angina?

Blockage of the coronary artery Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for a choking baby?

5 back slaps and 5 chest thrusts Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial piece of information to have readily available in case of an emergency?

Full address and postcode Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate percentage of the UK population that will develop an allergy at some point?

20% Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of iGE in an allergic reaction?

Binding to the surface of mast cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common symptom of anaphylaxis?

Difficulty breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of pressing the wound in treating bleeding?

To apply pressure to stop the bleeding Signup and view all the answers

How many times more people were admitted to hospital with a severe allergic reaction in 2000 compared to 1990?

Seven times Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for an unnecessary immune response to an innocuous substance?

Allergy Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage of children who have a food allergy in the UK?

5-8% Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of examining the wound in treating bleeding?

To identify the severity of the bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage increase in hospital admissions for anaphylaxis due to food allergy between 2002-03 and 2022-23?

154% Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the release of histamine and other chemicals causing an allergic reaction?

Degranulation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary symptom of anaphylaxis that requires immediate attention?

Shortness of breath Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct order of action when having an allergic reaction?

Call for help, stay with the casualty, locate adrenaline autoinjector, give antihistamine Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position for a patient experiencing anaphylaxis?

Lying flat with legs raised Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the algorithm used to diagnose anaphylaxis?

ABCDE Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct way to hold an adrenaline autoinjector?

Hold in dominant hand Signup and view all the answers

How long should the adrenaline autoinjector be held in place?

10 seconds Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of managing seizures?

Maintaining the person's safety and dignity Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action if a person has a seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes?

Call an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a prolonged or repeated seizure that can increase the risk of status epilepticus?

Status epilepticus Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of self-management programs in controlling seizures?

They help better control seizures and other symptoms Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked on the pre-filled syringe provided?

The expiry date and dose Signup and view all the answers

How should the oral syringe be placed in the mouth?

Between the gums and teeth Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended way to administer the dose?

Dividing the dose into two halves, one for each cheek Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the syringe after use?

Dispose of it safely Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential side effect of midazolam?

Drowsiness and sedation Signup and view all the answers

How should midazolam be stored?

In a safe place, away from children and pets Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of people with asthma?

They have 'sensitive' airways Signup and view all the answers

What is a trigger that can cause an asthma attack?

Cold air and temperature change Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in dealing with an asthma attack?

Sit up straight and try to remain calm Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of an asthma attack?

Chest tightness and wheezing Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum duration of a seizure or series of seizures that is classified as status epilepticus?

30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy that is not caused by injury, drowning, or other known causes?

SUDEP Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the medicine used to stop prolonged seizures that can be administered bucally?

Midazolam Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the product that contains Midazolam Hydrochloride 5mg in 1ml in pre-filled oral syringes?

Buccolam Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if symptoms do not improve after taking 10 puffs of the reliever inhaler?

Call 999 immediately Signup and view all the answers

Who can administer buccal midazolam?

Designated carers and staff who have received training Signup and view all the answers

What is an indication that someone is at risk of an asthma attack?

Using the reliever inhaler three times a week or more Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why buccal midazolam is prescribed?

To stop prolonged generalized seizures Signup and view all the answers

What should you always check before administering buccal midazolam?

The dose and expiry date of the medicine Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of a head injury?

Blurred vision or double vision Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if someone loses consciousness and stops breathing after choking?

Start CPR Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if buccal midazolam does not control the seizure within five minutes?

Follow the advice given by your doctor or call 999 for an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the space between the gum and cheek where buccal midazolam is administered?

Buccal space Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for managing a concussion?

Remove the individual from playing or training immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the other product that contains Midazolam Maleate 10mg in 1ml?

Epistatus Signup and view all the answers

What is a common trigger for anaphylaxis?

Milk Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if someone is experiencing symptoms of an asthma attack?

Take 1 puff of the reliever inhaler every 30 seconds to 1 minute Signup and view all the answers

What is the FAST method for recognizing stroke?

Face, Arms, Speech, Time Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if someone is experiencing symptoms of a head injury?

Remove them from playing or training immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of a concussion?

Feeling irritable Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the UK population will develop an allergy at some point?

20% Signup and view all the answers

What is the increase in hospital admissions for anaphylaxis due to food allergy alone from 2002 to 2022?

154% Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the immune response to an innocuous substance?

Allergy Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of examining the wound in treating bleeding?

To assess the severity of the wound Signup and view all the answers

What is the increase in hospital admissions for anaphylaxis from 2002 to 2023?

108% Signup and view all the answers

What is the most common chronic disease in Europe?

Allergy Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of managing anaphylaxis?

To provide immediate attention Signup and view all the answers

What is the increase in hospital admissions for food-related anaphylaxis from 2002 to 2022?

154% Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if someone is experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis?

Call 999 or 112 Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of children have a food allergy in the UK?

5-8% Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the trachea in throat anatomy?

To provide a pathway for air into the lungs Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position for supporting a casualty with angina?

Lazy W position, with legs supported and bent slightly Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of early recognition and call in dealing with a heart attack?

To ensure timely medical intervention and reduce damage to the heart Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if someone is choking and loses consciousness and stops breathing?

Start CPR and call for an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an improvised face shield in emergency first aid?

To protect the first aider from bodily fluids Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for a choking baby?

5 back slaps and then 5 chest thrusts Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in managing anaphylaxis?

Calling for help Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone is experiencing anaphylaxis and has difficulty breathing?

Sit them upright Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the algorithm used to diagnose anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis Resuscitation Council Algorithm Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone has a seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes?

Call an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a prolonged or repeated seizure that can increase the risk of status epilepticus?

Status epilepticus Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of managing seizures?

To protect the person's dignity Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action if someone is experiencing symptoms of an asthma attack?

Use an inhaler Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the medication used to stop prolonged seizures?

Midazolam Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone is experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction?

Stay with the person Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if someone has a seizure that is different from their usual seizure?

Call an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the condition where a person has a seizure or a series of seizures that last for 30 minutes or more, without a complete recovery of consciousness?

Status epilepticus Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy that is not caused by injury, drowning, or other known causes?

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the medicine used to stop prolonged seizures that can be administered bucally?

Midazolam Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the product that contains Midazolam Hydrochloride 5mg in 1ml in pre-filled oral syringes?

Buccolam Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for managing convulsive status epilepticus?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the space between the gum and cheek where buccal midazolam is administered?

Buccal Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum duration of a seizure or series of seizures that is classified as status epilepticus?

30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the other product that contains Midazolam Maleate 10mg in 1ml?

Epistatus Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked on the pre-filled syringe provided?

Both a and b Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of managing seizures?

To control the frequency of seizures Signup and view all the answers

What should you do with the syringe after use?

Dispose of it safely (to paramedic or pharmacy) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common side effect of midazolam?

Drowsiness and sedation Signup and view all the answers

How should you administer the dose of buccal midazolam?

Place the syringe between the gums and teeth Signup and view all the answers

What should you check on the pre-filled syringe provided?

The expiry date and dose Signup and view all the answers

What can trigger an asthma attack?

Cold air and temperature change Signup and view all the answers

What should you do during an asthma attack?

Sit up straight and try to calm down Signup and view all the answers

How should you store midazolam?

At room temperature, away from bright light and heat Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of an asthma attack?

Chest tightness Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone's seizure does not stop after giving buccal midazolam?

Call for medical assistance Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of people with asthma?

They have sensitive airways Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if symptoms do not improve after taking 10 puffs of the reliever inhaler?

Make an urgent appointment with a GP or asthma nurse Signup and view all the answers

What are the early warning signs of an asthma attack?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if someone loses consciousness and stops breathing after choking?

Start CPR Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take for a concussion?

Remove from playing or training Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for managing a head injury?

Give first aid and manage the injury Signup and view all the answers

What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take for a choking baby?

Give 5 back blows followed by 5 chest thrusts Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for an injury to the brain?

Traumatic brain injury Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after taking 10 puffs of the reliever inhaler?

Sit with the casualty until they feel completely well Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take for an asthma attack?

Take 10 puffs of the reliever inhaler Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position to support a casualty with angina?

Upright position to help with breathing Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the GTN spray in dealing with angina?

To relieve chest pain Signup and view all the answers

What is the cause of angina?

Narrowing of the coronary artery due to cholesterol deposits Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of early defibrillation in heart attack cases?

It can help restart the heart Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for a choking baby?

5 back slaps and 5 chest thrusts Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of checking it is safe before approaching a casualty?

To avoid putting yourself at risk Signup and view all the answers

What is the common sign of anaphylaxis that may occur without skin symptoms?

Sudden breathing difficulty Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in managing anaphylaxis?

Call for help Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone is experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis and has vomited?

Give antihistamine Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if someone has a seizure that lasts longer than 5 minutes?

Phone an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of managing seizures?

To maintain the safety and dignity of the person Signup and view all the answers

What is status epilepticus?

A prolonged or repeated seizure that can increase the risk of status epilepticus Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone is experiencing symptoms of anaphylaxis and has difficulty breathing?

Lie them flat with their legs raised Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if someone has anaphylaxis and has a seizure?

Give adrenaline Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of early recognition in dealing with anaphylaxis?

It saves lives Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if someone has anaphylaxis and is unconscious?

Phone an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage of the UK population that will develop an allergy at some point?

One third Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the reaction that is life-threatening and can affect the airway, breathing, and level of consciousness?

Anaphylaxis Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the unnecessary immune response to an innocuous substance?

Allergy Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of examining the wound in treating bleeding?

To examine the wound Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if someone is experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction?

Administer adrenaline Signup and view all the answers

What is the increase in admissions for anaphylaxis due to food allergy alone from 2002-03 to 2022-23?

154% Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the release of histamine and other chemicals causing an allergic reaction?

De-granulation Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position for supporting a casualty with angina?

Sitting upright Signup and view all the answers

What is the percentage of children aged 10 and under who have a food allergy in the UK?

5-8% Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the immune response to an innocuous substance?

Allergy Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for sudden unexpected death in epilepsy that is not caused by injury, drowning, or other known causes?

SUDEP Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum duration of a seizure or series of seizures that is classified as status epilepticus?

30 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the medicine used to stop prolonged seizures?

Midazolam Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take if buccal midazolam does not control the seizure within five minutes?

Follow the advice given by your doctor or call 999 for an ambulance Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the product that contains Midazolam Maleate 10mg in 1ml?

Epistatus Signup and view all the answers

What is convulsive status epilepticus?

A medical emergency requiring admission to hospital Signup and view all the answers

What may increase a person’s risk of SUDEP?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is buccal midazolam prescribed to treat?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

How should buccal midazolam be administered?

Through the space between the gum and cheek Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked on the pre-filled syringe provided?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked before giving the dose of buccal midazolam?

The dose and expiry date of the pre-filled syringe Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the oral syringe after administration?

Dispose of it safely to a paramedic or pharmacy Signup and view all the answers

What is a common side effect of midazolam?

Drowsiness and sedation Signup and view all the answers

How should the bottle of Epistatus buccal liquid be stored?

At room temperature, away from bright light and direct sunlight Signup and view all the answers

What is a common trigger for asthma?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the seizure has not stopped after giving buccal midazolam?

Seek medical assistance Signup and view all the answers

How should the dose of buccal midazolam be administered?

Divide the dose into two parts and give half in each cheek Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of checking the expiry date of the pre-filled syringe?

To ensure the medication is not expired Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the medication if it is no longer needed or past its expiry date?

Return it to a pharmacist Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of asthma?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum number of puffs of a reliever inhaler that can be taken in a single dose?

10 Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if symptoms do not improve after taking 10 puffs of the reliever inhaler?

Call 999 immediately Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended course of action for managing a concussion?

A progressive exercise program introducing an individual back to sport Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for a choking baby?

5 back blows then 5 abdominal thrusts Signup and view all the answers

What is an early warning sign of an asthma attack?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should be done after a concussion?

Rest and avoid strenuous activities Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of a head injury?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if someone loses consciousness and stops breathing after choking?

Start CPR Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action for managing an asthma attack?

Take 10 puffs of the reliever inhaler Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in dealing with an asthma attack?

Take 1-2 puffs of the reliever inhaler Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Emergency First Aid

Importance of keeping oneself safe during an emergency: wear a face mask, gloves, and check the scene for safety before approaching the casualty
Throat anatomy: tongue, epiglottis, oesophagus, and trachea

Dealing with the Throat

Open-airway technique: support the casualty on the ground in the lazy W position to aid circulation and ease breathing
Use GTN spray or angina medication to help the casualty
If symptoms don't ease, give a 300mg aspirin and discreetly get an AED ready for resuscitation

Heart Attack

Heart attack occurs when a blockage in the aorta or coronary artery reduces blood flow to the heart muscle
Angina: cholesterol deposits narrow the artery and form a clot, blocking the artery
Importance of early recognition, call, CPR, defibrillation, and advanced care

Safety Considerations

Implanted devices, medication patches, and inappropriate shock can be hazardous
Remove jewelry and avoid flammable atmospheres

Choking

For babies: 5 back slaps and 5 chest thrusts
For children and adults: cough, 5 back blows, and 5 abdominal thrusts; start CPR if they lose consciousness

Preparing for an Emergency

Keep important phone numbers and addresses accessible
Take regular puffs of a reliever inhaler during an asthma attack
If symptoms don't improve, call 999

Early Warning Signs

Needing to use a reliever inhaler three times a week or more
Symptoms: tightness in the chest, breathlessness, coughing, wheezing, or waking up at night due to asthma
If the reliever inhaler isn't helping, an asthma attack may be occurring

Head Injuries

Traumatic brain injury: the brain crashes against the skull, causing cerebral compression
Signs and symptoms: headache, pressure in the head, balance problems, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or noise

Concussions

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury
Management principles: remove from play or training, prioritize return to education/work over return to play
A progressive exercise program is recommended after a concussion

Anaphylaxis

Triggers: milk, egg, nuts, bee/wasp sting, food, latex, medication
Fast for stroke: face, arms, speech, and time
Anaphylaxis is life-threatening and can affect airway, breathing, and consciousness

Allergy Statistics

Allergy is the most common chronic disease in Europe
Up to 20% of patients with allergies live with a severe debilitating form of their condition
The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) states that 1/3 of the UK population will develop an allergy at some point

Anaphylaxis Treatment

Stay with the casualty, call for help if necessary, locate an adrenaline autoinjector, and give antihistamine
Phone an ambulance and monitor the casualty closely
Follow the child's Individual Healthcare Plan for prescribed medication

Anaphylaxis Algorithm

Use ABCDE: airway, breathing, circulation, disability, and exposure
Diagnosis: look for acute onset of illness, life-threatening airway and/or breathing, circulation problems, and skin changes

Adrenaline Autoinjector

Hold the device in your dominant hand, remove the cap, and jab the tip into the upper outer thigh
Hold for 10 seconds, massage the injection site for 10 seconds, and phone an ambulance

Seizures, Fits, and Convulsions

Causes of seizures: head injury, brain tumor, CVA or stroke, drugs and alcohol, meningitis, and sepsis
Managing seizures: don't put anything in their mouth, don't restrain them, protect their dignity, and time the seizure
Call an ambulance if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or if it's the person's first seizure

Status Epilepticus

A medical emergency that requires admission to hospital
Mortality rate up to 20%

SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy)

Deaths in people with epilepsy that are not from injury, drowning, or other known causes
Possible causes: breathing changes, heart rhythm changes, and a combination of both### Anaphylaxis
Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis:
- Swelling of the conjunctiva, lips, tongue, and throat
- Respiratory symptoms: shortness of breath, hoarseness, pain with swallowing, and cough
- CNS symptoms: light headedness, anxiety, confusion, loss of consciousness, and headache
- Heart and blood vessels symptoms: fast or slow heart rate, low blood pressure
- Skin symptoms: hives, itchiness, and flushing
Action to take when having an allergic reaction:
- Stay with the casualty
- Call for help if necessary
- Locate adrenaline autoinjector
- Give antihistamine
- Phone emergency contact
- Monitor closely and be ready to give adrenaline immediately if symptoms worsen
Anaphylaxis Resuscitation Council Algorithm:
- Use ABCDE: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure
- Diagnosis: look for acute onset of illness, life-threatening airway and/or breathing, circulation problems, and skin changes

Seizures and Epilepsy

Symptoms of seizures:
- Head injury
- Brain tumour
- CVA or stroke
- Drugs and alcohol
- Meningitis and Sepsis
- Lack of oxygen
- Fainting
- Cardiac arrest
- Raised temperature
- Epilepsy – diagnosed when seizures cannot be attributed to any other cause
Managing seizures:
- Don't put anything in their mouth
- Don't restrain them
- Protect their dignity
- If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, phone an ambulance
Controlling seizures:
- Ensure seizure medicine is taken regularly and as prescribed
- Consider a seizure alert monitor if seizures happen at night
- Avoid seizure triggers if known
- Avoid drinking an excess of alcohol
- Self-management programs can help to better control seizures and other symptoms

Asthma

Asthma statistics:
- 5.4 million people in the UK are currently receiving treatment for asthma
- Asthma affects more boys than girls
- Asthma in adults is more common in women than men
Asthma triggers:
- Allergens
- Work
- Respiratory infections
- Strong odours
- Cold air and temperature change
- Exercise
- Stress and emotions
- Pollutants
- Food additives
- Gastic reflux
- Tobacco
- Medication
How to deal with an asthma attack:
- Sit up straight
- Don't lie down
- Try to keep calm
- Follow the doctor's instructions

Bleeding

Treatment for bleeding:
- Sit or lie down
- Examine the wound
- Apply pressure
- Dress the wound

Allergy Statistics

Allergy is the most common chronic disease in Europe
Up to 20% of patients with allergies live with a severe debilitating form of their condition
The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) states that 1/3 of the UK population, 19 million people, will develop an allergy at some point
Anaphylaxis statistics:
- Seven times as many people were admitted to hospital with a severe allergic reaction in 2000 than in 1990
- In the decade 2002-12, there was a doubling of admissions with anaphylaxis due to food allergy alone
- For food-related anaphylaxis, the rise is even higher, going from just under 2,000 admissions twenty years ago to over 5,000 in 2022

Buccal Midazolam

Buccal midazolam is available as:
- Buccolam contains Midazolam Hydrochloride 5mg in 1ml in pre-filled oral syringes
- Epistatus contains Midazolam Maleate 10mg in 1ml in a 5ml bottle with four oral syringes
Buccal midazolam can only be administered by designated carers and staff who have received training from an appropriate health professional
Buccal midazolam is used to treat prolonged seizures
The NICE guideline for epilepsy sets out the following recommendations for the use of Buccal Midazolam:
- Convulsive status epilepticus (seizures lasting 5 minutes or more)
- Repeated/cluster seizures (usually 3 or more seizures which stop on their own in 24 hours)
- Prolonged seizures (seizures lasting more than 2 minutes longer than a person's usual seizure)### Asthma Attack
Take 1 puff of reliever inhaler every 30-60 seconds, max 10 puffs
If symptoms improve, sit with casualty until they feel completely well and return to previous activity
If not, call 999
Steps to manage an asthma attack:
- Step 1: Take reliever inhaler and sit with casualty
- Step 2: Repeat after 15 minutes while waiting for ambulance
- Step 3: Call 999
- Step 4: Repeat step 2 after 15 minutes while waiting for ambulance
- Step 5: Make urgent same-day appointment with GP or asthma nurse

Head Injuries

Traumatic brain injury: brain crashes against skull, cerebral compression
Signs and symptoms:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Sensitivity to light/noise
- Does not feel right
- Blurred vision or double vision
- Feels dazed, sluggish, foggy, or groggy
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Feeling irritable, sad, nervous, or more emotional
- Sleep disturbances
Observed by others:
- Appears stunned or dazed
- Loses consciousness (even briefly)
- Is confused about events
- Trouble thinking or concentrating
- Can't recall events prior/after event
- Shows behavior/personality changes
- Answers questions slowly and repeats questions
- Has difficulty remembering things and organizing themselves
How to recognize and manage a concussion:
- It's an injury to the brain
- Most concussions can recover with complete management
- All concussions should be regarded as potentially serious and managed according to appropriate guidelines
- Loss of consciousness does not occur in the majority of concussions
- Anyone with concussion symptoms following a head injury must be removed from playing or training
- They must not return to play on the day of any suspected concussion
- Return to education/work must take priority over return to play
- A progressive exercise program that introduces an individual back to sport in a step-wise fashion is recommended after a concussion

Choking

5 back blows, then 5 abdominal thrusts
For babies: 5 back slaps, then 5 chest thrusts
If they lose consciousness and stop breathing, start CPR

Anaphylaxis

Triggers:
- Milk
- Egg
- Bee/wasp sting
- Nuts
- Food
- Latex
- Medication
Signs and symptoms:
- Swelling of the conjunctiva
- Runny nose
- Swelling of lips/tongue/throat
- Respiratory: shortness of breath, hoarseness, pain with swallowing, cough
- CNS: light-headedness, anxiety, confusion, loss of consciousness, headache
- Heart and blood vessels: fast or slow heart rate, low blood pressure
- Skin: hives, itchiness, flushing
Action:
- Stay with the casualty
- Call for help if necessary
- Locate adrenaline autoinjector
- Give antihistamine
- Phone emergency contact
- If vomited, can repeat antihistamine dose
- Monitor closely and be ready to give adrenaline immediately if symptoms worsen
Resuscitation Council Algorithm:
- Use ABCDE: Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure
- Diagnosis: look for acute onset of illness, life-threatening airway and/or breathing, circulation problems, skin changes
- If so, call for help, lie patient flat (only if they are not struggling to breathe, if breathless, sit upright), raise patient's legs
- Give adrenaline and call ambulance
How to use adrenaline autoinjector:
- Hold in your dominant hand
- Remove the cap with your other hand
- Swing and jab the tip of the autoinjector in your upper, outer thigh (with or without clothes, but avoiding seams)
- Hold the injection in place for 10 seconds
- Massage the injection site for 10 seconds
- Phone for an ambulance
Watch for signs of anaphylaxis:
- Anaphylaxis may occur without skin symptoms
- Always consider anaphylaxis in someone with a known food allergy who has sudden breathing difficulty
- Airway: persistent cough, difficulty swallowing, vocal changes, swelling
- Breathing: difficulty or noisy breathing, wheezing (like an asthma attack)
- Consciousness: persistent dizziness, suddenly sleepy, pale/floppy, unconscious
- If any one or more of these signs are present: lie casualty flat with legs raised (if breathing is difficult, allow casualty to sit), use adrenaline, dial 999 for ambulance
- If in doubt, give adrenaline
After giving adrenaline:
- Stay with casualty until ambulance arrives
- Do not stand casualty up
- Commence CPR if there are no signs of life
- If no improvement after 5 minutes, give a second adrenaline dose using a second autoinjector device if available

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Description

Test your knowledge of emergency first aid procedures, including throat anatomy and response to medical emergencies. Learn about keeping yourself safe, dealing with throat-related injuries, and administering medication.