What are the aims of first aid?
• To preserve life – this is the main aim of first aid; to save lives. This includes the life of the first aider, the casualty (the victim, the injured/sick person), and bystanders. • To prevent further harm – the patient must be kept stable and his/her condition must not worsen before medical services arrive. This may include moving the patient out of harm’s way, applying first aid techniques, keeping him/her warm and dry, applying pressure to wounds to stop bleeding, etc. • Promote recovery – this may include applying a plaster (bandage) to a small wound; anything that may help in the recovery process.
