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First Aid & Emergencies

Call 911 NOW if you are having:

  • Chest Pain
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Severe Bleeding
  • Sudden Weakness or Numbness
  • A Medical Emergency
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Shark Bite Treatment

Call 911

 

 

Recommended Related to First Aid

Treating a Child's Congestion or Stuffy Nose

Has difficulty breathing Suddenly starts coughing after being fed Has a cough associated with any skin color change such as turning blue Seems out of breath Is unable to talk or eat

Read the Treating a Child's Congestion or Stuffy Nose article > >

1. Get Emergency Help

  • For all but minor wounds

2. Control Bleeding

  • Apply direct pressure to the wound.

 

3. Keep the Person Warm

4. Treat Shock

  • If person has cool and clammy skin, weak and rapid pulse, or nausea or is faint or unconscious, see Shock Treatment.

 

5. For Minor Injury

  • Clean wound with soap and water, and cover.
  • Take the person to a medical clinic or emergency room for further cleaning.
  • Even a minor wound must be carefully cleaned to avoid infection.

 

6. Follow Up

Medical treatment will depend on the severity of the injury.

  • For a minor bite, the health care provider will clean the wound and may prescribe an antibiotic.
  • For a serious injury, health care providers will stabilize the person's airway, breathing, and circulation. Surgery may be necessary.

 

WebMD Medical Reference

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Reviewed by Varnada Karriem-Norwood, MD on September 27, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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