Office of Public Safety: Western Illinois University

Guidelines:
Medical and First Aid

If a serious injury or illness occurs, call 911. Give your name, describe the nature and severity of the medical problems, and the location of the victim.
In case of minor injury or illness, provide first aid care. Use the first aid materials located in the building. (If available)
In case of serious injury or illness, trained personnel should quickly perform the following steps.

Call 911.
Keep victim still and comfortable. Do not move victim.
Ask victim, "Are you okay?" and "What is wrong?".
Check breathing and condition of victim.
Control serious bleeding by direct pressure on the wound.
Provide assistance to the victim until help arrives.
Look for emergency medical ID. Question witnesses, and give all information to emergency response personnel.

Be sure to restock first aid supply kits as materials are used.

Poisoning and Overdose

Stay with the victim and assist as necessary.
If choking, lower victim's head.

Choking

Check victim's mouth and clear of foreign matter.
Use abdominal thrusts if trained to do so.

Fainting, Unconsciousness and Shock

Have the victim lie or sit down and rest.

Heart Attack

Place victim lying down on back.
Give resuscitation or CPR as necessary.

Burns, Thermal and Chemical

Flood chemical burn with cool water.
Cover burn with dry bandage.
Keep victim quiet and comfortable.

Fractures and Sprains

Keep victim quiet.
Keep injured area immobile.

Severe Bleeding and Wounds

Apply direct pressure on wound (until help arrives) using a clean cloth or hand.

Note: Professional medical care should be sought after first aid is given.