MODULE 3:

HEALTH EDUCATION
First Aid and CPR

As a caregiver, having basic First Aid and CPR skills is crucial for responding to
emergencies and providing immediate assistance in the event of injuries or cardiac
events.
Here is a brief overview of essential First Aid and CPR skills for caregivers.

Common First Aid Skills for Caregivers

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):

• Learn how to perform CPR on adults, children, and infants.
• Understand the ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths.
• Stay updated on any changes in CPR guidelines.
Choking:
• Know the Heimlich maneuver for clearing the airway in case of choking.
• Be familiar with modified techniques for infants, children, and adults.

Wound Care:
• Clean wounds with mild soap and water.
• Apply sterile dressings and bandages.
• Recognize signs of infection and seek medical attention when necessary.
Burns:
• Differentiate between first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree burns.
• Cool minor burns with running water and cover with a sterile dressing.

First Aid Skills

Fractures and Sprains:

❖ Recognize signs of fractures and sprains.
❖ Immobilize the injured area using splints or bandages.
❖ Seek professional medical help for confirmation and further treatment.
Seizures:
❖ Keep the person safe during a seizure by moving objects away.
❖ Place the person on their side to maintain an open airway.
❖ Do not put anything in the person's mouth during a seizure.
Allergic Reactions:
❖ Be aware of signs of allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling).
❖ Administer prescribed epinephrine for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Poisoning:
❖ Recognize symptoms of poisoning.
❖ Call emergency services and provide information on the ingested substance.
❖ Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional.
Heat and Cold Emergencies:
❖ Know how to recognize and treat heat exhaustion, heat stroke,
hypothermia, and frostbite.
❖ Keep the person warm or cool and seek medical help as necessary.

General Tips:

Stay Calm:
❖Maintain composure during emergencies to make rational decisions.
❖ Call emergency services promptly.
Communication:
❖ Clearly communicate with emergency responders and provide necessary
information.
Regular Training:
❖ Refresh your First Aid skills regularly through training courses.
❖ Stay updated on any changes in First Aid guidelines.
Emergency Contacts:
❖ Keep a list of emergency contacts, including healthcare providers, readily
available.
A. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Chest Compressions:
For adults, push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100-120
compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
Rescue Breaths:
If trained, provide rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. Ensure that each
breath results in visible chest rise.
Use of AED:
Follow the AED prompts. Apply the pads to the bare chest and follow the device's
instructions. Resume CPR as directed.

Hands-Only CPR:
If you are not trained in rescue breaths, provide hands-only CPR by performing
continuous chest compressions until professional help arrives.
Infant CPR:
For infants, use two fingers for chest compressions and provide gentle rescue breaths.
Child CPR:
For children, use the heel of one or two hands for chest compressions and provide
rescue breaths as appropriate
B. Controlling Bleeding

From wounds, cuts, or scrapes is an essential skill for caregivers. Steps to follow:
1. Assess the Situation:
Before approaching the wound, ensure your safety and the safety of the person you
are caring for. Use personal protective equipment if available.
2. Wash Hands:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer to prevent
introducing germs into the wound.
3. Apply Pressure:

Use a clean cloth, sterile bandage, or your gloved hand to apply direct pressure to the
wound. Maintain pressure continuously for at least 5 minutes. Avoid lifting the
covering to check the wound during this time.
4. Elevate the Injured Area:

If possible, elevate the injured area above the level of the heart. This can help
reduce blood flow to the wound and minimize bleeding.
5. Use a Pressure Bandage:

If bleeding continues after applying direct pressure, consider wrapping a sterile

bandage or clean cloth tightly around the wound. Make sure it's snug but not too tight
to avoid compromising circulation.
6. Apply a Tourniquet (if necessary):

Only consider this step if bleeding is severe and cannot be controlled with direct
pressure or a pressure bandage. Use a tourniquet (a belt, cloth, or any appropriate
material) above the wound, but seek professional medical help immediately.

7. Assess for Shock:

Keep an eye on the person for signs of shock, such as pale skin, rapid breathing, or
altered consciousness. If present, help them lie down, keep them warm, and call for
emergency medical assistance.
8. Clean the Wound (if necessary):

If bleeding has stopped and the wound is minor, clean it with mild soap and water.
Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they may damage tissue.
9. Apply an Antiseptic and Dress the Wound:

Apply an antiseptic ointment and cover the wound with a sterile bandage or gauze
pad. Change the dressing regularly to prevent infection.
10. Seek Medical Attention:

If bleeding is severe, persistent, or if you're unsure about the severity of the injury,
seek professional medical attention promptly.
Important Tips:
• Do Not Remove Embedded Objects:
• If an object is embedded in the wound, do not remove it. Instead, stabilize the
object and seek medical assistance.
• Do Not Use a tourniquet unless absolutely necessary:
• Tourniquets should only be used as a last resort. They can cause additional
damage, and their use requires immediate medical attention.
• Stay Calm: Maintain a calm demeanor to reassure the person you are caring
for. This can help reduce anxiety and stress.
C. Immobility

Immobility is the inability to move freely, commonly seen in severe disabilities

and critical illnesses.
Causes
Medical conditions (such as paralysis or neurological disorders), neurological
impairments, and critical illnesses (like severe injuries or prolonged
hospitalization) contribute to immobility.
Impact on the Body
Immobility can lead to muscle atrophy (muscle wasting), joint stiffness, and
contractures (permanent shortening of muscles or joints).

Complications
The lack of movement can result in pressure ulcers (bedsores), respiratory issues
(like pneumonia due to shallow breathing), and emotional challenges (such as
depression and anxiety).
Prevention Strategies
Prevention involves regular repositioning of the person to relieve pressure on
vulnerable areas, engaging in range of motion exercises, and utilizing assistive
devices like wheelchairs or lift
equipment

Caregiver's Role

Caregivers play a pivotal role in assisting with transfers, proper positioning, and
supporting mobility through exercises and assistive devices.
Emotional Support
Addressing the emotional challenges associated with immobility, such as feelings
of dependence and frustration, is crucial. Encouraging independence and
maintaining open communication can provide emotional support.
D. Pain Management
Pain Management in Severely Disabled or Critically Ill Persons.
Introduction
Pain management in severe disability involves addressing acute and chronic pain
to enhance the individual's quality of life.
Types of Pain
Distinguish between acute (sudden and short-term), chronic (persistent), and
neuropathic pain (resulting from damage to the nervous system).
Pain Assessment
Challenges in assessing pain include communication barriers in non-verbal
individuals. Collaboration with healthcare professionals is essential to
understand the nature and intensity of pain.
Pain Management Strategies
Medications (including analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs), physical
therapy (to improve mobility and reduce pain), and relaxation techniques (such
as breathing exercises) are common strategies.
Barriers to Pain Management
Barriers may include communication challenges, fears related to opioid use, and
cultural considerations influencing pain management decisions.
Collaboration with Professionals
Collaboration with healthcare professionals, including physicians and pain
specialists, ensures a comprehensive approach to pain management tailored to the
individual's needs.
Emotional Support
Beyond physical pain, addressing the emotional aspects of pain is vital. Caregivers
play a significant role in providing comfort and reassurance.
E. Wound Healing and Altered Body Image

Introduction
Wound healing and altered body image are significant challenges for individuals
with severe disabilities, impacting their overall well-being.
Types of Wounds
Common wounds include pressure ulcers (resulting from prolonged pressure on
the skin), surgical wounds, and skin tears (often seen in fragile skin).
Factors Affecting Healing
Wound healing is influenced by factors such as nutrition, immobility, and
underlying chronic conditions, making prevention crucial.
Prevention of Wounds
Regular skin assessments, proper repositioning to relieve pressure points, and
ensuring adequate nutrition contribute to preventing wounds.
Wound Care Techniques
Techniques include cleaning wounds with mild solutions, dressing changes, and
collaboration with wound care specialists for more complex cases.
Altered Body Image
Individuals with severe disabilities may experience altered body image due to
scars, medical devices, or physical changes. Promoting body positivity is essential
for mental well-being.
Psychological Support
Beyond physical care, providing emotional support by acknowledging and
addressing the psychological impact of altered body image is crucial.
F. Maternal Care

1.Prenatal Care:

Regular Check-ups:
❖ Schedule routine prenatal visits with a healthcare provider.
❖ Monitor the mother's health and fetal development.
Nutrition:
❖ Emphasize a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
❖ Encourage prenatal vitamins and adequate hydration.
Education:
❖ Provide information on pregnancy milestones and changes.
❖ Discuss warning signs and when to seek medical attention.
2. Labor and Delivery:

Birth Plan:
❖ Be familiar with the mother's birth plan preferences.
❖ Provide emotional support during labor.
Pain Management:
❖ Understand various pain management options.
❖ Assist in creating a calm and supportive birthing environment.
Emergency Preparedness:
❖ Know the emergency contact information and procedures.
❖ Be prepared to act quickly in case of unexpected situations

3. Postpartum Care
❖ Physical Recovery: - Be knowledgeable about postpartum
physical changes. - Support the mother in rest and self-care.
❖ Breastfeeding Support: - Learn about proper breastfeeding
techniques. - Offer assistance and encouragement during
breastfeeding.
❖ Emotional Well-being: - Recognize signs of postpartum
depression or anxiety. – Encourage open communication and seek
professional help if needed.
 4. Newborn Care:
❖ Basic Newborn Care: - Acquire knowledge about diapering,
bathing, and dressing newborns. -Understand feeding schedules and
cues.
❖ Vaccinations and Follow-ups: - Be aware of the newborn's
vaccination schedule. - Assist in scheduling and attending
postpartum appointments.

5. Communication Skills:
❖ Active Listening: - Develop active listening skills to understand the
mother's concerns and needs.
❖ Clear Communication: - Communicate effectively with healthcare
providers. - Provide clear and concise information to the mother.
6. Cultural Sensitivity:
❖ Be aware of cultural differences in maternal care practices.
❖ Respect and adapt care approaches to cultural preferences.
7. Continuous Learning:
❖ Stay informed about updated maternal care practices.
❖ Attend relevant workshops or training programs.
8.Emergency Response:
❖ Know how to respond to emergency situations promptly.
❖ Understand the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor.

Conclusion

Undertaking a caregiver course is not just about acquiring skills; it's about embracing
a noble calling to provide compassionate care and support to those in need. Through
this course, you've gained invaluable knowledge, practical insights, and the empathy
required to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Remember, caregiving is not merely a profession; it's a deeply rewarding journey of

serving humanity with kindness and dignity.