First Aid & Medical Care
First aid is temporary care given to sick or injured persons. Although each injury or illness presents its own special problems there are some genera rules that apply to most situations – treat the immediate threats (ABCs, gross bleeding and shock) first.
- Clear the airway
- Restore breathing
- Check circulation - if necessary initiate chest compressions
- Control bleeding
- Treat shock
- Improve environment
Don’t move the victim more than absolutely necessary. Keep the victim as comfortable as possible and reassure him. Don’t allow the victim to see the extent of his injuries.
First Aid Kits and Information
- A fully stocked and labelled first aid box must be available, and there must be a qualified, well trained first-aider onboard the vessel at all times.
- It is essential that the first aid kit is adequately stocked and regularly inspected and replenished. Every crew member must know the exact location of first aid supplies kept on site.
- A first aid kit should be stored near the equipment you keep for emergencies. Contents should be carried in a weatherproof container with individually sealed packages, labelled with the trade name, generic name and expiration date.
- Medical equipment and supplies carried on board be accompanied by instructions or other information in a language and format understood by all onboard. There must be the means available (radio or satellite communication) so that services ashore can provide medical advice where necessary.
