Laboratory First aid (accidents)

Laboratory First aid kit

Burns

• Types:
  • First-degree: Red, painful, no blisters.
  • Second-degree: Red, painful blisters.
  • Third-degree: White/charred, no pain due to nerve damage.
• First Aid Steps:

1. Cool the burn with cool (not cold) water for at least 10 minutes.
2. Cover with a sterile, non-stick dressing.
3. Don’t apply ice, ointments, or butter to the burn.
4. Seek medical help for serious burns (second or third-degree).

Shock

• Signs:
  • Pale, cold, clammy skin.
  • Weak, rapid pulse.
  • Rapid breathing.
• First Aid Steps:

1. Lay the person down with legs elevated (if no injury prevents this).
2. Keep the person warm with a blanket.
3. Do not give food or drink.
4. Seek immediate medical attention.

Sprains and Strains

• First Aid:

1. Rest: Keep the injured part immobile.
2. Ice: Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
3. Compression: Wrap the area with a bandage.
4. Elevation: Elevate the injured area above heart level to reduce swelling.

Poisoning

• First Aid Steps:

1. Identify the poison if possible and call emergency services.
2. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.
3. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air.
4. For skin contact, rinse the skin with water for 15–20 minutes.
5. Follow emergency guidance while waiting for help.

Electric Shock

• First Aid Steps:

1. Turn off the source of electricity if safe to do so.
2. Do not touch the person if they are still in contact with the electrical source.
3. Once the person is safe from the electrical current, check for breathing and perform CPR if necessary.
4. Seek immediate medical attention.

First Aid Kit Essentials

1. Adhesive bandages
2. Sterile gauze pads
3. Antiseptic wipes
4. Tweezers
5. Scissors
6. Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen)
7. Gloves
8. Elastic bandage
9. Burn ointment
10. Antiseptic solution or cream