Drowning is defined as death within 24 hours of suffocation by submersion in a liquid, normally freshwater or seawater. Near-drowning implies successful resuscitation from suffocation caused by submersion. Secondary drowning refers to fluid accumulation in the lungs following what appears to be a successful recovery from a near-drowning event. What to Do if Someone is […]
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body’s response to infection injures its own tissues and organs. It is a rare condition that can look just like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection. Therefore it is essential that you know how to recognise it. Although sepsis is often referred to as either blood […]
There are lots of cases where you may have to call the Emergency Medical Services. This can include any serious road traffic accidents, serious burns, drowning and major bleeds. Calling the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is simply done by calling 999 or 112. 999 is the UK wide phone number. 112 is the European number […]
Croup is an infection (normally viral but can be bacterial) that affects the voice box (larynx) and the airway to the lungs (trachea). It most commonly affects children aged between 6 months and 3 years. Most cases of croup do not need to be treated because the condition usually gets better on its own and […]
As the younger child brain is not developed, children can develop an infection in the area that regulates temperature. Febrile means related to fever and the temperature is usually always over 38 – 39°C. Febrile convulsions are seizures that sometimes happen in a child with a high temperature. They usually occur between the ages of […]
The Recovery Position is a way of placing the patient into a more safe and secure position. The Recovery Position allows you to monitor the patient easily and also negates the risk of them choking on anything. Use of Recovery Position After carrying out a primary survey, you will be able to tell if the […]
A poison, which is also called a toxin, is defined as a substance which, if taken into the body in sufficient quantity, may cause temporary or permanent damage. Poisons are not only swallowed or ingested, they are also absorbed through the skin, inhaled, splashed into the eyes, or injected into the body. Once the toxin […]
Meningitis is an infection caused by either a viral or bacterial infection. It causes an inflammation of the meninges, which is the membrane which covers the brain and the spinal cord. This can be very serious if left untreated. In babies and young children, death can occur in a matter of hours in some serious […]
A stroke can occur when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or ruptured. This means parts of the brain become starved of oxygen. This is very serious, as your body constantly needs oxygen, especially the brain. If you suspect a stroke, you must call the emergency medical services immediately. An estimated 150,000 people […]
Frostnip is where the skin freezes and becomes red, white and painful. Frostnip most commonly happens to the patient’s extremities such as fingers, toes, ears and nose. This can be an early sign of frostbite, so it is essential to warm up those areas quickly. However, at this stage, calling the emergency medical services is […]
