Nutrition Class Response to Injury

Sprains and Strains

Symptoms: pain, swelling, bruising, and inability to move the affected area

First Aid Procedures: The RICE method

Rest, Ice (15-20 min), Compression, Elevation

Concussion

Symptoms: Dizziness, nausea, headache, and/or light sensitivity after a head impact

First Aid Procedures: Stop activity immediately. Watch for worsening symptoms. Get medical attention and clearance before returning to activity.

Cuts and Scrapes

Symptoms: Broken skin, bleeding, and stinging pain.

First Aid Procedures: Apply pressure to opening to stop bleeding. Clean area with soap and water. Then apply an antibiotic ointment and clean bandage.

Nosebleeds

Symptoms: Blood coming from one or both nostrils

First Aid Procedures: Sit in an upright position, lean forward with tissue and pinch the soft part of the nose.

Fractures

Symptoms: Intense pain, visible deformity, swelling, and unable to put weight on area.

First Aid Procedures: Stop the mobilization of the area with a splint. Seek emergency medical care immediately.

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms: Profuse sweating, cold/clammy skin, nausea and/or dizziness

First Aid Procedures: Move the person to a cool, shaded area (air conditioned also works), hydrate, remove unneccessary gear or clothing.

Asthma Attack

Symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, tight chest pain, and difficulty catching breath.

First Aid Steps: Help the person sit comfortably, grab their inhaler and assist if necessary. If breathing does not improve within 5 -10 min call emergency services.

Joint Dislocation

Symptoms: Extreme pain, joint appears out of place, unable to move the limb, and numbness.

First Aid Steps: DO NOT attempt to push the joint back into place! First use a sling or soft padding to keep the joint still, apply a cold pack, go to the emergency room.

Muscle Cramps

Symptoms: Sudden, sharp pain and a hard ball or lump in the muscle (often in the calf or foot).

First Aid Procedures: Gently stretch and massage the affected muscle, use a warm towel for tight muscles (or a cold pack for soreness), drink water with electrolytes, wait until pain subsides before continuing activity.