
How to survive the shops on Black Friday
Engrained into America's Thanksgiving tradition, Black Friday
has made its way into Britain. We know that it can be dangerous
work, so if you're thinking of stepping foot into the shops to grab
a bargain, here's some first aid tips to keep in mind.
Head injuries and bleeding
When crammed in the shops, you might be the unlucky recipient of
a head injury or a minor bleed. You can usually control minor
bleeding by elevating and applying pressure, however a nose bleed
can be more serious. If somebody is bleeding severely or becomes
unresponsive, call 999 or 112 for emergency help.
1. Call for help, unless it is a minor injury. If so, advise
them to sit and hold something cold wrapped in a cloth against
it.
2. Treat scalp wounds by applying direct pressure
3. Check if they are fully responsive to questions and simple
commands. If so, monitor them until they recover.
4. If they’re unresponsive, or not quite right, don’t hesitate -
call 999 or 112.
Strains and sprains
With all the unavoidable pushing and shoving, it's easy to trip
and fall and get injured. If this happens, think RICE.
1. Rest - help them to sit and support their
injury in a comfortable raised position.
2. Ice - apply something cold. Don’t leave it on
for more than ten minutes.
3. Comfortable support - wrap a soft layer of
padding around the area. Tie a support bandage around it which goes
up as far as the next joint on each side.
4. Elevation – keep the injury raised on something
soft.
5. If the pain is severe send them to hospital. Otherwise, tell
them to rest the injury.
Cuts and grazes
Got a graze from grabbing that last box off the shelf? Cuts and
grazes are common injuries and can be treated at home. Here's what
to do.
1. Clean it under running cold water or with alcohol-free
wipes.
2. Pat it dry, cover with a sterile gauze or a clean, non-fluffy
cloth.
3. Raise and support the injury. Apply pressure to stop
bleeding.
4. Remove the cloth or gauze and apply a sterile dressing or large
plaster.
5. If there’s high risk of an infection or something in it, tell
them to see a healthcare professional.
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