Basic First Aid

Been proficient at first aid is something that is important for all of us. Whether we are members of sports organisations, nominated first aiders at work, or are youth leaders where a knowledge of first aid is demanded, or merely want the skills should they be required, there are plenty of places to learn them. St Johns Ambulance and the British Red Cross run first aid training courses, often providing instruction for various organisations. Also there are several private agencies that provide first aid training for those eager to learn the skills. But before signing up for one of them, it is important to know what to look for in a first aid training course and how it will meet your personal requirements.

There are many agencies offering first aid courses, and they sometimes run them for other organisations. These include St John Ambulance, the Red Cross as well as various private bodies. Some youth groups also teach their members first aid. But whatever first aid course you choose to enrol on will depend on the the level of expertise you are seeking to acquire, plus any specialist knowledge you may require. Most first aid training course providers hold a basic first aid course to give you a grounding in the subject. These can be developed further with a standard first aid certificate.

For the nominated first aider at work, there are also specialist courses available to teach you the practical and theoretical first aid skills needed in the workplace.

Other courses on offer include practical life saving courses that enables first aiders to practice what they have learned. The emergency life saving course teaches first aiders to deal with life threatening cases such as shock and loss of blood, and also enables them learn resuscitation techniques.

Some organisations also provide much more specialist first aid courses. Outdoor instructors, teachers, field scientists, expeditionary may require training in outdoor settings. These are often organised at remote locations such as mountain, adventure and water centres. The training is geared towards injuries that may occur when engaging in such activities.

No matter what your competence is as first aider, your skills will need to be regularly brushed up. So when signing up for a first aid course it is important to ascertain if there will be regular refresher sessions.

Knowing what to look for in a first aid course is important to the first aider, so decide if you just want to learn basic skills or progress to more specialised first aid. There is no shortage of first aid training available, so check with the providers to find out just what is on offer.

Filed under: first aid