Health experts are encouraging Nigerians to learn basic first aid skills, emphasizing that knowing how to respond during a medical emergency can save lives, reduce the severity of injuries, and provide critical support until professional medical help arrives.
According to medical professionals, first aid refers to the immediate care given to a person who has been injured or suddenly becomes ill before they receive treatment from qualified healthcare providers. Prompt and appropriate first aid can help prevent a condition from worsening and improve the chances of recovery.
Doctors explain that common emergencies where first aid may be needed include cuts and bleeding, burns, choking, fractures, fainting, seizures, poisoning, road traffic crashes, and sudden cardiac arrest. Responding calmly and correctly during these situations can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Health experts recommend that every adult learn essential first aid skills such as controlling bleeding with direct pressure, safely assisting a choking person, treating minor burns with cool running water, recognising the signs of stroke and heart attack, placing an unconscious but breathing person in the recovery position, and knowing when to call emergency medical services.
Medical professionals also encourage members of the public to become familiar with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR is an emergency lifesaving technique that can help maintain blood circulation and oxygen flow when a person’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing. Proper training from certified instructors is important to perform the procedure safely and effectively.
Doctors advise keeping a well-stocked first aid kit at home, in workplaces, schools, and vehicles. A basic first aid kit should contain items such as sterile bandages, adhesive plasters, antiseptic solution, gauze, medical gloves, scissors, adhesive tape, and other essential supplies for managing minor injuries.
Experts caution that first aid is not a substitute for professional medical treatment. Serious injuries or illnesses, including severe bleeding, chest pain, difficulty breathing, suspected fractures, major burns, or loss of consciousness, require immediate medical evaluation even if first aid has already been provided.
Health professionals stress the importance of remaining calm during emergencies, ensuring the scene is safe before offering assistance, and avoiding actions that may place either the injured person or the responder at additional risk.
Doctors encourage schools, workplaces, community organisations, and religious institutions to organise certified first aid training programmes. Widespread knowledge of basic emergency care can strengthen community preparedness and improve survival during medical emergencies.
Medical experts conclude that learning first aid is a valuable life skill that everyone should possess. They encourage Nigerians to receive proper first aid training, keep emergency contact numbers readily available, and be prepared to provide safe and appropriate assistance whenever emergencies arise.
