SFA Instructor Notes

The Red Cross Overview

• Foundation: Established in mid-1800s to aid wounded soldiers in battle; rooted in the concept of neutrality.

• Symbol Origin: The "Red Cross" symbol is an inverse of the Swiss Flag colors, reflecting the Swiss founders and the nation's neutrality.

• Global Impact: Recognized as the world’s largest humanitarian-aid and first aid training organization.

• Trademarked Symbol: Usage of the Red Cross symbol requires permission; Canadian Forces can use it as per Geneva Conventions.

Responding to Emergencies

• 911 Calls: Free of charge; covers fire and police services.

• EHS Costs:

  • NS residents with MSI: $150-160

  • Non-residents involved in accidents: Up to $800

  • Non-Canadians: Approximately $1,110

• Good Samaritan Laws:

  • Provincially based; Nova Scotia's version is the Volunteer Services Act.

  • Rarely invoked in Canada (4 instances).

• Duty to Act:

  • Not mandatory unless first aider is compensated or involved in an accident.

  • Different legal context in Quebec.

• CPR Masks: Should only have 1-way valves; filters offer little to no infection protection.

• HIV/AIDS Risks: Difficult to contract via first aid due to rapid virus inactivation in air; contrary to meningitis, which can rapidly be fatal.

First Aid Approach: Check, Call, Care

• CHECK:

  • Safety hazards assessment.

  • Assess patient responsiveness: vocal stimulus, then pain stimulus (e.g., trap squeeze).

  • Evaluate ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation):

    • Place patient on back; head tilt/chin lift regardless of emergency type; examine for breathing for 10 seconds.

    • "Agonal Respirations": treat as absent if sporadic.

• CALL:

  • Ensure help is en route before starting CARE.

• CARE:

  • If breathing but unresponsive, check for injuries; place in recovery position.

  • If breathing and responsive, slower assessment is acceptable.

  • If not breathing, initiate CPR and use AED.

Airway Emergencies

• Choking Symptoms: Patients may show panic but not always signal; act promptly without waiting for signs.

• Maneuvers:

  • Chest thrusts acceptable for all adults and children (including visibly pregnant individuals).

• Post-Event Care: Patient should see a doctor if an object is expelled; risks of aspiration exist.

Circulatory Emergencies

• Cardiovascular Disease: Leading cause of death for Canadians 45+.

• Heart Attacks:

  • Result from blood vessel blockage; signs differ by gender (female signs include mid-back pain, flu-like symptoms).

• Aspirin (ASA):

  • Reduces heart attack fatality by 25%; dose: 160mg (2 x 81mg).

  • Helps maintain blood flow, won’t relieve symptoms.

Stroke Recognition: FAST Test

• FAST Components:

  • FACE: Asymmetry when smiling.

  • ARMS: Arm drifting during hold.

  • SPEECH: Slurred speech during vocalization.

• Immediate Action: Call 911 if any signs are present; TIA (mini-stroke) treated like a full stroke.

CPR/AED Importance

• Statistics: Cardiac arrest accounts for significant deaths in Canada; bystander CPR and AED crucial for survival.

• CPR Mechanics:

  • Purpose is blood circulation during cardiac events to maintain brain function until advanced care arrives.

• AED Function: Analyzes heart rhythm; only shocks during "electrical chaos" (V-Tach or V-Fib).

Breathing Emergencies

• Asthma Management: Different inhaler colors represent different functions.

• Anaphylaxis: Involves multiple body systems; use epinephrine injectors in emergencies.

Wound Care

• Blood Volume: Human body contains 4-6L; significant blood loss leads to severe outcomes.

• Burn Treatment: Superficial burns require cooling before applying ointments.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

• Injury Management: Splint only if necessary for transport; check joint mobility.

• Dislocations: Never attempt to relocate; risk of nerve/artery damage.

Sudden Medical Emergencies

• Seizure Care: Protect head; don't move the patient unless necessary.

• Diabetes Management: Low blood sugar emergencies treated with sugar sources; avoid insulin.

Emergency Childbirth

• Birthing Prep: Gather linens, warm water; support moms during contractions.

• Newborn Care: Clear mucus for breathing; secure placenta post-delivery.

Environmental Emergencies

• Hypothermia Management: Remove from cold; warm gradually.

• Heat-Related Disorders: Cool rapidly, replace fluids, recognize procedural needs for critical conditions.