There are numerous types of first aid services, ranging from unique disciplines to emergency first aid training. In order to gain first aid certification, training courses must be successfully completed. While first aid certification requirements differ from country to country, most first aid services remain the same. Generally, the term "first aid services" can be broken down into two distinct categories: emergency first aid and non-emergency first aid.
Emergency first aid is applied when a person's life is in danger. Airway obstruction, anaphylactic shock, broken bones, and severe bleeding are all causes for emergency first aid. While first aid is the primary step towards helping a person who is suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, further medical attention must follow basic first aid.
Non-emergency first aid often applies to everyday situations. When a person ingests pain relieving medication, attends to a minor cut, or seeks any over-the-counter pharmaceutical cure, non-emergency first aid has been applied. In most instances, emergency first aid is taught within a classroom setting, while non-emergency first aid is generally learned through observation.
Within most countries, emergency first aid courses are provided by various community organizations, such as the Red Cross. On occasion, some companies will provide first aid training to employees for free. While some first aid training courses are also offered on the Internet, this type of training is not usually recommended. Frequently, viewing live first aid prevention is the best way to understand emergency first aid measures. Even though first aid training may not be mandatory for all people, it can be indispensable.
One of the most important aspects of any emergency first aid course is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It can be dangerous to attempt adult CPR on a child, however, since children are smaller than adults. Thus, any childcare professional should be be well-acquainted with CPR techniques that are unique to children.
In addition to those individuals who wish to gain emergency first aid training, certain professionals require specific first aid skills. Aquatic and marine first aid services must be learned by lifeguards, rescue divers, scuba diving professionals, and wilderness guides. Also, some military personnel must acquire unique first aid training.
First aid kits include bandages, safety pins, astringent, tweezers, scissors, non-prescription drugs, and a thermometer. All of these things can be used in non-emergency situations. When an emergency situation arises, a certified person may be able to perform first aid services, though professional emergency personnel should always be contacted.