Make sure you look after your own health and be aware if you start to feel stressed. A calm, considerate response is necessary so that you can reassure the casualty and find out the information you need from them.
How to handle difficult first aid situations
Dr Lynn Thomas, OStJ, BSc, MB.BS, MA, FRCPClinically reviewed: 28/04/2025
When responding to an emergency, it's important to recognise the emotional and physical needs of everyone involved, including your own.
What to do
- 1
Be calm in your approach.
- 2
Be aware of risks to yourself and others and do not put yourself in danger.
- 3
Communicate calmly and clearly. Some people may have specific communication needs or difficulties.
Build and maintain trust from both the casualty and bystanders. Remember that people can act out of character when frightened or alarmed by what is happening to them.
- 4
Treat the most serious, life-threatening conditions first.
- 5
If worried, call 999 or 112 for emergency help straight away.
Find time for yourself after the emergency is over, to talk through what has happened and how you are feeling with someone trusted. It is normal to feel a whole range of emotions after adrenalin settles. Talk to a health professional if you experience ongoing unsettled feelings.
