"Don't give water and don't touch the head": how to provide first aid and not harm the victim in a traffic accident

      The paramedic explained why you shouldn't give water to the injured, why cold is needed on the head, and what to do with arterial blood.

      When arriving at the scene of an accident, most of us want to help. We pull the victims out of cars, give them water, and try to stop the bleeding. And often, unknowingly, we only make things worse. Paramedic Elvina Gafarova from the Yelabuga Central District Hospital explained what should categorically not be done before the doctors arrive and why "help" without knowledge can cost a person their life.

      First: is the person breathing?

      If you approach the victim and they are unconscious, the first thing to do is check for breathing and pulse on the carotid artery. If the person is breathing – turn their head to the side. This will save them from choking if vomiting occurs. And remember the main point: do not give water to the injured. Under no circumstances. In cases of internal bleeding or abdominal injury, any liquid accelerates the fatal outcome. Even if the person asks for a drink – do not give it. Wait for the ambulance.

      The golden rule: do not touch!

      The most common mistake of bystanders is pulling the victim out of the car when they have a broken neck or spine. By pulling on their arms, you can sever the spinal cord. The person will remain disabled for life. Elvina Gafarova puts it simply: "If it’s not on fire and not sinking – DO NOT TOUCH." The only exception is a real threat: smoke, fire, gasoline leak. In that case, grab the victim by the collar and belt, trying to keep the body in a straight line. To avoid worsening the spinal injury.

      Blood: when to use a tourniquet and when not to

      If you see a pool of blood or an arterial fountain – bright red blood spurting – apply a tourniquet above the wound. Be sure to note the time of application. You can write it on the victim's body or on a piece of paper. Time is critically important.

      A tourniquet should not be applied to bare skin. Only on fabric. And under no circumstances should you remove it before the doctors arrive, even if it seems like "the leg will be lost." This is a matter of life.

      A bruised forehead – cold on the head

      Even if the victim says it’s "just a bruise on the forehead," there is a risk of brain swelling or a skull base fracture. Place something cold on their head: a bottle of water, a bag of snow – anything. And do not attempt to set dislocations or broken bones. That is the job of professionals.

      A separate warning: do not let them smell ammonia if the person is conscious. A sudden jerk of the head can be fatal in neck injuries.

      The main advice

      If you are unsure of your actions – it’s better to do nothing at all. Wait for the emergency services or the ambulance. Because sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is not to harm.

      Gulchechek Izmaylova

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

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