Medical Emergencies

 

Immediate Response:

• If there is continuing danger to the victim, then move him away from the hazard.

• Call for help IMMEDIATELY.   Use your judgment.   Dial 8911 for most cases.   For severe incidents that appear to be immediately life-threatening (heart attack, severed artery, etc.), dial 9911.  In either case, give your name, the location of the victim, and describe the nature and severity of the medical issue.

Secondary Response:

The procedures below should be implemented after calling 8911.   University Police will respond while also summoning paramedics. Ideally, only Red Cross trained personnel should provide first aid treatment, i.e., first aid and CPR – but in their absence, do all you can to gather information and attend the victim.

• Keep the victim still and comfortable to avoid further injury. DO NOT MOVE THE VICTIM once away from source of danger.

• Ask the victim, "Are you okay?" and "What is wrong?"

• Check breathing and pulse, give CPR if necessary.

• Control serious bleeding by direct pressure on the wound.

• Identify victim, look for emergency medical I.D.

• Loosen or remove clothing carefully.

• Check for hidden injuries.

• Determine injury or probable cause of illness. ASK WITNESSES.

• Note victim's general appearance and behavior, such as skin color, and appearance of the eyes.

• Check for stains or burns around the mouth, breath odor for possible alcohol or drug overdose, treat for poison if needed.

• Protect victim from disturbances and exposure.

• Continue to assist the victim until help arrives.

• Look for emergency medical I.D.; question witness(es); and give all information to the paramedics.