First Aid
First aid is the emergency treatment given to an ill or injured person before professional medical services can be obtained. It is provided to prevent death or further injury, to counteract shock, and to relieve pain. Certain conditions, such as severe bleeding or asphyxiation, require immediate treatment if the patient is to survive. In such cases, even a delay of a few seconds may mean the difference between life and death. However, the treatment of most injuries or medical emergencies can be safely postponed for the few minutes needed to locate a crew member skilled in first aid, or to obtain suitable medical supplies and equipment.

All crew members should be prepared to administer first aid. They should have sufficient knowledge to apply true emergency measures and to decide when treatment can be safely delayed until more skilled personnel arrive. Those who are not properly trained must recognize their limitations. Procedures and techniques beyond the rescuer’s ability should not be attempted, as more harm than good may result.