Definition If you breath a foreign object into the respiratory tract, it may become stuck and cause breathing problems, as well as inflammation and infection. If swallowed, a foreign object may become stuck along the digestive tract. See also: Choking Alternative Names Obstructed airway; Blocked airway Considerations These injuries can
Definition An animal bite can result in a break in the skin, a bruise, or a puncture wound. Alternative Names Bites – animals Considerations If the bite is a puncture wound, it has a greater chance of becoming infected. Rabies is a rare, but potentially fatal, disease transmitted by the
Definition There are three levels of burns: First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin. They cause pain, redness, and swelling. Second-degree (partial thickness) burns affect both the outer and underlying layer of skin. They cause pain, redness, swelling, and blistering. Third-degree (full thickness) burns extend into deeper
Definition A head injury is any trauma that leads to injury of the scalp, skull, or brain. The injuries can range from a minor bump on the skull to serious brain injury. Head injury is classified as either closed or open (penetrating). A closed head injury means you received a
Definition Drug abuse is the misuse or overuse of any medication or drug, including alcohol. This article discusses first aid for drug overdose and withdrawal. Alternative Names Overdose from drugs Considerations Many street drugs have no therapeutic benefits. Any use of these drugs is a form of drug abuse. Legitimate
Definition CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is an emergency lifesaving procedure that is performed when a person’s own breathing or heartbeat have stopped, such as in cases of electric shock or drowning. CPR is a combination of rescue breathing, which provides oxygen to the victim’s lungs, and chest compressions,
Definition Breathing difficulties can be described in several different ways. You may be short of breath, unable to take a deep breath, gasping for air, or feel like you are not getting enough air. See also: Choking Alternative Names Difficulty breathing – first aid; Dyspnea – first aid; Shortness of
Definition Poisoning is caused by swallowing, injecting, breathing in, or otherwise being exposed to a harmful substance. Most poisonings occur by accident. In a poisoning emergency, immediate first aid is very important. The first aid you give before getting medical help can save a person’s life. Considerations Approximately 2.5 million
Definition Allergic reactions are sensitivities to a specific substance, called an allergen , that is contacted through the skin, inhaled into the lungs, swallowed, or injected. Considerations Allergic reactions are common. In fact, the immune response that causes an allergic reaction is similar to that which causes hayfever. Most reactions
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