Workshop First Aid

Note: None of these treatments should be considered a substitute for medical attention. They are intended as guidelines on how to react to workshop mishaps. Whenever anyone is injured, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

Situation Treatment

Deep gash/excessive bleeding

1. Maintain firm pressure on the wound with a clean cloth.
2. Dress with a gauze bandage.
3. If bleeding persists, and wound is a non-fracture, elevate the affected area so it is above the heart.

Deep puncture wound

1. Clean wound with soap and water.
2. Loosely cover wound with gauze bandage.
3. Apply insulated ice bag or cold compress to reduce swelling, relieve pain and impair absorption of toxins.
4. Be aware that internal bleeding may occur.

Stab wound/embedded object

1. Leave the embedded object in place. Do NOT remove it.
2. Apply a clean cloth or gauze pad to the area around the wound.
3. Prevent movement of the object by wrapping It with gauze.

Amputation

1. Maintain constant pressure with a clean cloth.
2. Carefully wrap severed item in gauze that has been moistened with either water or saline solution.
3. Place severed item in a sealed plastic bag.
4. Place this bag into a larger bag containing water and ice (never let severed part come In direct contact with Ice).

Burn

1. If the burn is more severe than first-degree (skin that is red or slightly swollen) it should not be treated at home. See a doctor immediately.
2. For minor burns, immerse the affected area in cold water for five minutes. Gently apply a cold, wet cloth to areas that are unabie to be immersed. Change the cloth frequently.

Electric shock

1. Quickly and safely break victim's contact with affecting current (disconnect plug or shut off breaker).
2. ALL electrical burns should be considered severe. Internal tissue may be affected more severely than the minor damage appearing on the skin. 911 shouid be called immediately if the electrical shock has caused any of the following: erratic heartbeat, severe jolt, abnormal tingling, unconsciousness (momentary or proionged), muscle spasms or aches, fatigue, headaches or a visible burn.

Chemicals in eyes

1. Do not rub or irritate the affected eye.
2. Flush with warm water.