First Aid for Accidents and Injuries - Vocabulary Flashcards

A vocabulary set covering key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on first aid for accidents and injuries, including eye and ear care, wound types, burns, bandages, and emergency response.

Foreign body

Substance or object lodged in any part of the body (e.g., metal shavings, dirt, eyelashes) requiring first aid or professional care.

Cornea

The clear front surface of the eye; if an object is embedded in the cornea, a provider must remove it.

Eye irrigation

Flushing the eye with sterile solution or clean water to remove foreign material or chemicals.

Sterile compress

A sterile dressing used to stabilize the eye and protect it from movement after an injury.

Protruding eye object protection

Cover the eye with a cup (e.g., plastic or Styrofoam) to prevent the object from being pushed deeper.

Punctal/eye rubbing warning

Advise not to rub the affected eye, as rubbing can embed or worsen injury.

Ear foreign body management

If an object is in the ear, use warmed mineral oil or baby oil; avoid liquids if swelling is possible and never dig for the object.

Swelling risk in ears

Do not introduce liquids if the object could swell or become lodged; seek provider help if unable to remove.

Splinter removal

Remove splinters with a sterile needle and splinter forceps; wash skin with soap and water before and after.

Embedded fish hook care

Fish hooks require medical removal; after removal, clean area, apply antibiotic ointment, and assess the need for a tetanus booster.

Tetanus booster timing

Tetanus booster is considered if the last shot was more than 5 years ago after certain injuries; many providers use a 10-year rule for routine cases.

RICE method

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation; a basic plan for acute injuries to reduce swelling and pain.

PRINCE method

Protection, Rest, Ice, NSAIDs/Acetaminophen, Compression, Elevation—alternative first aid approach for injuries.

ACE bandage

Elastic bandage used to provide compression and support for injuries.

Dislocation

A joint injury where bones are out of their normal position; immobilize and seek medical care.

Fracture

A break in a bone; immobilization and prompt medical evaluation are essential.

Bites and stings

Injuries from animals or insects; involve cleaning, immobilization, and consideration of infection or allergic reaction.

EpiPen

Epinephrine auto-injector used for severe allergic (anaphylactic) reactions; keep readily accessible.

Anaphylaxis symptoms

Severe allergic reaction that can include difficulty breathing, swelling, dizziness; requires immediate treatment with epinephrine.

Snake bite first aid

Clean area, remove venom from surface if possible, keep bitten limb below heart level, avoid cutting or sucking venom and avoid ice or tourniquets.

Infectious bite risk

Human or animal bites carry risks such as hepatitis B, HIV, and rabies; seek prompt medical evaluation.

Sting removal technique

For honeybees, carefully remove the stinger with a card or rigid object; avoid squeezing with fingers or tweezers.

Allergic stings management

Monitor for allergic reaction; apply ice and anti-itch measures; individuals with severe allergies may require an EpiPen.

Thermal burn

Burn caused by heat sources such as flames, hot liquids, or hot objects.

Chemical burn

Burn from acids, alkalis, or other chemicals; flush with water and remove contaminated clothing.

Electrical burn

Burns from electrical sources; ensure power is off before approaching; remove patient only after source is de-energized.

First-degree burn

Superficial burn affecting only the epidermis; red, painful, and usually dry; treated with cooling and protection.

Second-degree burn

Partial-thickness burn involving epidermis and part of dermis; blistering and swelling common.

Third-degree burn

Full-thickness burn through epidermis and dermis into subcutaneous tissue; skin may look white or leathery.

Fourth-degree burn

Extends beyond skin into deeper tissues such as muscle or bone (rare in basic first aid context).

Burn severity classification

Minor (