Part 8: First Aid

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3Introduction

There is a paucity of research in the field of first aid. Without research into first aid interventions, recommendations must be derived indirectly from hospital-based, animal, or, at best, emergency medical services (EMS) studies.

3.1General Introduction

We define first aid as helping behaviors and initial care provided to a person for an acute illness or injury.

The goals of a first aid provider include preserving life, alleviating suffering, preventing further illness or injury, and promoting recovery.

First aid can be initiated by anyone in any situation and includes self-care.

First aid assessments and interventions should be medically sound and based on scientific evidence or, in the absence of such evidence, on expert consensus.

First aid competencies include, at any level of training,

Recognizing, assessing, and prioritizing the need for first aid
Providing care by using appropriate knowledge, skills, and
behaviors Recognizing limitations and seeking additional care when needed

The scope of first aid is not purely scientific; it is influenced by both training and regulatory constraints. The definition of scope is therefore variable and should be defined according to circumstances, need, and regulatory requirements.

3.2Scope of the Guidelines

3.3Organization of the Writing Group

3.4Methodology and Evidence Review

Education and training in first aid can be useful to improve morbidity and mortality from injury and illness. (Class 2a, LOE C-LD)(link opens in new window) {LINK: 2015 Part 15}(link opens in new window)(link opens in new window)

We recommend that first aid education be universally available. (Class 1, LOE C-EO)(link opens in new window) {LINK: 2015 Part 15}(link opens in new window)(link opens in new window)

3.5Class of Recommendation and Level of Evidence

3.5-1. Table 1. Applying COR and LOE

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3.6Guideline Structure