People must be prepared to deal with medical emergencies: UAE physician

Abu Dhabi - Dr Ayesha highlighted the need for training and learning life-saving skills.

Countless lives have been saved due to ordinary people being able to provide first aid on time, said Dr Ayesha Al Memari, the first Emirati physician to specialise in emergency medicine, told Khaleej Times.

"We must ensure we are armed with a first aid kit at home or workplace or in the vehicle. Your kit should be tailored to the specific medical needs of your environment," said Dr Ayesha, emergency medicine critical care consultant, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City.

Dr Ayesha, who has served in conflict zones, noted that people must always be ready and well-prepared to deal with any emergency situations. She said the first aid kit must be kept within easy reach of adults."Remember to store the kit in a cool and dry place. Keep it well stocked with supplies. Regularly check the expiry dates of the medications and empty out or replace out of date items at least once a year."

Dr Ayesha highlighted the need for training and learning life-saving skills. "Before administering any first aid support, you must undergo basic first aid training or educate yourself from trusted sources. Most organisations provide first aid training courses, so you may check with your employer for support or take online first aid courses from recognised professional organisations."

Marking the World First Aid Day, Dr Ayesha underlined that communities can be kept safer by raising awareness about the importance of first aid and promoting its basic practices.

"In emergencies, always try to provide immediate first aid care before calling 998 or rushing to the emergency ward of your nearest hospital. Time is of the essence and immediate care is often more impactful than delaying life-saving measures."
Four Bs' to address in an emergency
Breathing: First aid teaches you how to clear the patient's airway if he is not breathing properly

Bleeding: If there's bleeding, take a gauze from the first aid kit and put pressure on the wound. If bleeding continues despite putting pressure, go to the hospital

Burns: If there is a burn, apply cool tap water

Bones: If the patient has fallen and hit himself; bring him into a correct position
What should you keep in your first aid kit:
> Bandages in different sizes

> Adhesive tapes

> Latex-free gloves

> Over-the-counter painkillers

> Scissors

> Alcohol-based cleansing wipes

> Thermometer

> Antiseptic ointments

> Sterile gauze dressings

ALWAYS REMEMBER

> Keep at least one first-aid kit in your home and one in your car.

> Store your kits someplace easy to get to and out of the reach of young children.

ashwani@khaleejtims.com

• Abu Dhabi
• Dubai