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Abu Dhabi - 'First aid is an important tool to quickly respond to accidents'

By Staff Reporter

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Published: Sun 13 Sep 2020, 1:07 AM

Knowing to give first-aid can contribute to saving lives, said the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) in light of World First Aid Day, which falls on the second Saturday of September, every year.

"First aid is an important tool to quickly respond to accidents and ensure that injuries are quickly dealt with by the time the trained medical professional arrives to administer more specialised treatment. First-aid can be a lifesaver as it can prevent further complications in minor or severe injuries," said Dr Firas AlNajjar, consultant at Rashid Hospital's Trauma and Emergency Centre.

First aid could specially be effective when it comes to minor injuries such as sport, household and work-related injuries if administered correctly and early. "Around 30 to 40 per cent of the cases received at Rashid Hospital's Trauma and Emergency Centre are first-aid related which can be managed efficiently in ambulatory care or primary health centres," he said.

When it comes to more severe cases like heart attacks or drowning, Dr AlNajjar stressed that the person administering first aid must first call an ambulance and then begin first-aid until the ambulance arrives.

"If they have not gotten the needed training on this, they can speak to ambulance officials on the phone for step-to-step guidance. It is not advisable for a person who does not have any training to administer first-aid without consulting a healthcare professional, as this can have adverse effects," he added.

Dr AlNajjar added that the first and most important rule in first aid is to ensure the safety of the first aid provider so that the administrator does not become a second victim and to not compromise the safety of the person in need of help.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com


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