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Medical emergencies can happen at any time, especially when one least expects it, but being prepared and knowing how to react can make a difference in outcomes during such situations. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Amit Nabar, director of emergency department and community medicine at SL Raheja Hospital in Mahim, outlined five important actions that every person should know to deal with and handle a medical emergency –
1. Evaluate the circumstances:
In any medical emergency, the most important thing is to stay calm and work quickly to gather information. Observe the person who needs medical help and check if he or she is conscious, breathing, check if the victim has deep wounds, or is bleeding heavily. This brief assessment will help you decide on the next course of action and assess the severity of the situation.
2. Call for help:
After assessing the injured victim and the situation, immediately call for professional help. When you contact the emergency number in your area, provide them with clear, concise information about the location and nature of the emergency. Let the operator know about the person’s condition so they can dispatch the appropriate emergency services. This step ensures that professional medical assistance is on hand when you begin initial care.
3. Provide basic first aid:
While waiting for emergency personnel to arrive, give the patient basic first aid as needed, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if they are not breathing or have no pulse. Apply direct pressure to the wound to stop heavy bleeding so that blood loss is minimized. If the victim is burned, use water to cool the damaged area. Knowing the basics of first aid can save a life and help keep the victim stable until help arrives.
4. Prevent further loss:
When there is a medical emergency, preventing further harm is important. Do not move a person unless he or she is in immediate danger (e.g., fire, falling structure), especially if you suspect a spinal cord injury. Inadequate movement of a person can make his or her injuries worse. Pay attention to the person’s comfort and avoid excessive movement, as well as make sure the surroundings are safe and free of any hazards.
5. Gather information:
While waiting for emergency services, learn as much as possible about the person and the circumstances. This includes information about their current medications, their possible allergies, medical history, and the specifics of the event that led to the emergency. The medical staff caring for the patient will find this information extremely helpful in determining when appropriate treatment should be initiated.
Dr. Amit Nabar said, “Your efforts in the first minutes of any medical emergency are crucial. You can effectively handle a medical emergency and possibly save someone’s life by following these five important steps – assess the situation, call for help, administer basic first aid, prevent additional harm and gather appropriate information. It is essential to arm yourself with the necessary knowledge and abilities to respond calmly in an emergency situation, consider enrolling in a certified first aid and CPR course. Remember, a calm and knowledgeable response can make all the difference.”
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