In emergency situations, the ability to administer first aid can be the difference between life and death.
The importance of first aid is particularly evident in cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA). Given that 75% of cardiac arrests occur at home, it's imperative that everyone is prepared to act immediately, whether by performing CPR or using an AED. The chances of restoring a shockable rhythm are highest when the collapse is first observed or discovered.
However, first aid isn't just about knowing what to do; it's about having the confidence to act quickly when seconds count. Being knowledgeable in first aid is crucial, but being the first to respond can significantly impact an injured person's survival and recovery time.
In January 2024, Madolyn Connolly, a nursing graduate, was driving past a beach in New Zealand when she noticed a man lying unconscious between parked cars. Without hesitation, she sprang into action, performing CPR and coordinating with bystanders until an ambulance arrived. Despite many others noticing the man, Connolly was the first to act.
When an accident or medical emergency occurs, the immediate response often determines the outcome. A person trained in first aid is equipped to provide essential care before professional medical help arrives, potentially saving a life. There is a critical difference between knowing how to perform first aid and having the courage to be the first one to help. The hesitation that comes from fear or uncertainty can cost the casualty’s survival rate to drop with every passing second.
Take, for instance, Ms. Foo, a volunteer coach for Singapore’s Special Olympics team. During a first aid course, she learned invaluable skills that later helped her when assisting an elderly woman who had fallen and started bleeding. By remaining calm while attending to the emergency, she was able to carry out her duties efficiently. Foo emphasised the importance of staying composed in such situations. If a first-aider remains calm, it helps to reassure others and prevents the panic that can escalate an already tense situation.
First aid is a vital skill that everyone should learn. But equally important is the willingness to be the first to step forward in an emergency. Remember, when it comes to saving lives, every second counts.
References
“How frequent is bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed in the community of Kota Bharu, Malaysia?”, Chew et al., Singapore Med J, Vol. 49, Issue 8, 2008
“McGill Nursing grad’s quick thinking highlights the importance of first aid training”, Kon, McGill University, 2024.
“S’poreans find value in having emergency response skills,” Wong, Straits Times, 2023
“Singapore OHCA Data Report”, White AE, Shahidah N, Asyikin N, Liew LX, Pek PP, Ong ME. 2022.