firstaidexperts

[firstaidexperts]

Keeping Our Courses Safe This COVID-19 Season

Despite the ongoing difficulties created by the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) worldwide, First Aid Pro will continue to deliver high-quality first aid courses to our dear clienteles and students in Melbourne. Although some of our on-site training courses will be temporarily paused, we have launched a new mode of training where you can learn first aid at the safety of your own home. 

First Aid Pro launches its Live Webinar Training where students will have Blended First Aid Learning. Meaning, the training will split into two - Training Webinar and Practical Workshop Assessment.

The purpose of this new method of training is to assist our students and protect them from infection. This is also to meet the Australian requirement of social distancing of no gathering of more than 10 people and the observance of 4m2 rule.

How It Works

Before participating in our training sessions, students are required to complete pre-course reading and a quiz that varies depending on students existing knowledge, skills, and experience. It is self-paced, self-directed, and a mandatory component of the course.

In the Live Training Webinar, there will be a 4-hour interactive session (break included), where we will discuss first aid theories and terminologies. Students can still interact with the first aid trainer and raise their questions. Please note that live webinar training must be completed to be qualified to do the practical assessment. 

In the Practical Workshop, there will be face to face sessions for practical modules and assessment. The duration of the assessment is reduced to a maximum of 2 hours and will strictly follow the Australian guidelines for social distancing (mentioned earlier). 

How We Prepare

First Aid Pro prioritises the health and wellbeing of our students, trainers, and team members. To ensure the safety of everyone, our already high hygiene standards in our practical assessments will continue to be enhanced to help prevent the spread of the virus. 

Additional precautions will include:

Sanitation of the training room

Disinfection of all first aid equipment in between uses

All students will be provided with their own sanitized manikin, AED and other first-aid materials

Further steps

A barrier device will be put in place during mouth resuscitation to maintain effective sanitation. However, rescue breathes are temporarily non-mandatory during training sessions, which is acceptable during this pandemic. As long as the student understands the importance of rescue breathes in a real-life scenario, and there is a signed proof of refusal, you are good to go. 

Our training follows the “Zero Contact Policy”. Our practical assessments are completely contactless or no human contact.

As an Education Training Organisation, we understand the importance of first aid in the fight against COVID-19. We believe that the Live Webinar Training will be the most effective method to bring our training to you.

First Aid Pro will continue to closely monitor the situation and will keep you updated as the situation develops. 

Reach out to us at courses@firstaidpro.com.au and one of our lovely staff would be glad to assist you with the queries. Stay Safe and Stay Home!

[firstaidexperts]

COVID-19: Myths vs. Facts

As the coronavirus disease continues to make the news and media outlets, facts can easily get distorted. And during a viral outbreak - rumors, misinformation, and unnecessary spread of fear can be dangerous. 

To date, not much is known about the virus. Researchers, scientists, and health government bodies are continuously learning something new about the virus every single day – from how the virus is transmitted and how can we find the cure. The staggering speed of the COVID-19 pandemic has led some countries to declare national emergencies, while some has forced into lockdown. 

The relentless flood of information (both social media and news articles) makes it difficult to separate the facts from the myths. While worrying is understandable, it is important to stay calm and verify your resources.  

Information plays an important role in keeping us healthy, fit, and safe during this pandemic. In this blog, we will debunk some of the myths that surround COVID-19 and verify the facts that are posted on social media and beyond. 

Myth #1: Only young people and older ones are at risk of coronavirus. 

Like any coronaviruses, COVID-19 can affect people of any age. However, children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to the virus as they have a weaker immune system.

Myth #2: Coronavirus is just like a normal flu

Although COVID-19 has flu-like symptoms, such as headache, fever, and flu – the overall profile of coronavirus is more serious. The mortality rate is many times higher than of seasonal flu.

Myth #3: The virus can be transmitted through a mosquito bite

There is no scientific basis yet to this claim. COVID-19 is a respiratory virus, meaning, it spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from an infected person. 

Myth #4: Spraying alcohol or chlorine over the body kills the virus.

This is a NO-NO. Alcohol and chlorine can be used to disinfect surfaces, but they should not be used on the skin. These chemicals can cause harm to the body, especially if it enters the eyes or mouth.

Myth #5: Face masks protect against coronavirus

Wearing of masks is not an iron-clad guarantee that you won't catch the disease. Coronavirus has tiny viral particles that can transmit through eyes, nose, and mouth. However, facial masks, especially the N95, are effective at capturing droplets and cuts the chance of the virus being passed on.

Myth #6: Home remedies are effective against the virus

No home remedies can cure and protect us against coronavirus. This includes essential oils, garlic, burning sage, and silver colloid. To protect yourself against the virus, practice good handwashing and stay home.

Myths and false information in these times can only add to the trouble. The best way to deal with this is to cross-check the information and learn from the professionals.

We suggest you participate in one of our Live Webinar Classes that are available in Sydney. Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and all parts of Australia. Including in our discussion are the signs and symptoms of coronavirus and first aid tips to stay healthy during COVID-19.

Enroll Now!

[firstaidexperts]

5 Ways to Keep the Elderly Safe this COVID-19

When it comes to COVID-19, the infectious disease caused by the newly discovered coronavirus, older people are the most vulnerable to severe illnesses. People aged 65 and older, especially those with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer, lung, and heart diseases are more prone to have severe – even deadly – coronavirus infection than any other age group. 

With staying physically and mentally healthy is often associated being outdoors, we have come up with 5 ways that we can do to help older people stay physically fit and mentally stable this time of isolation.

     1. Practice physical distancing but not total social isolation

Isolation can be a very lonely time especially for the elderly who cherish time spend with friends and families.  This time can be tough for them as isolation can harm their immunity and mental health.

To lower the risk of catching the virus and help them get through tough times, practice physical distancing but not social isolation. Take advantage of the technology to make them feel loved and less lonely during this pandemic.

Remember, physical and social distancing does not have to mean total isolation or loneliness.

     2. Keep them mentally healthy

Encourage them to engage in meaningful, productive activities to help boost their mental health and maintain their overall. Take up or go back to their favorite hobby – growing a garden, knitting crochet, cooking, or whatever it may be. Help them find or keep a sense of purpose while staying indoors.

     3. Stay fit indoors

Look for age=appropriate workouts that can help them stay in physical shape. Gentle exercises such as mild stretches and walking are suggested. If they are able to, there are so many video classes to choose from YouTube based on their abilities and preferences. 

Keep a routine that will encourage them to move around for 10 to 30 minutes a day. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional first before doing any exercises.

     4. Manage Medication

Older people need to ensure they have the basic first aid kit and a stock of medicines that is enough to last them for the next 30-60 days. To help manage their medication and stocks, consult with their primary care physician first.

     5. Take an Online Course

Now is the perfect time for you or your elder loved ones to learn a new vital skill, such as First Aid. Due to the current restrictions, some of our physical trainings are currently on hold, but the good news is that you can now undertake First Aid Online courses at firstaidpro.com.au

Gain a formal first aid certification or simply learn the basics of first aid to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy during these challenging times. We have a wide range of interactive first aid training courses online that will teach you all the skills needed to properly respond during an emergency. 

Supporting and protecting older people in the community is everyone’s business. Learn how you can help and keep them safe this COVID-19.

Enroll in one of our First Aid Online Classes today. 

[firstaidexperts]

4 Exercise Related Injuries and How to Treat them

Exercise benefits every part of the human body, including our minds. It causes the body to produce chemicals that can help a person look good and feel good. One long-term benefit of regular exercise is the lower the risk of having a disability later in their lives.

Yet, exercise has a small downside. With all forms of physical activity, there is a risk of injury.

Exercise can sometimes cause injuries to people, according to a report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Such injuries can have the potential to cause harm and can result in interruptions in a person's daily life, loss of income, temporary or permanent disability, or in other severe cases – death. 

Injuries are much more common with intense exercise and competitive sports (basketball, football, soccer, etc.) than moderate types of exercise usually done for health-related purposes. Most exercise-related injuries are mild are preventable and will respond to proper first aid treatment at home.

However, it is important to know which injury is minor or major and although exercise injuries feel the same, there are differences among them. Here are a few of the most common exercise-related injuries and after that, we will give you tips on proper first aid treatment for minor and major injuries.

1. Sprains

Sprains are injuries to the ligaments, usually occurs as a sprained arm or sprained ankle. In first-degree sprains, the ligament is stretched; while in second-degree sprains, some fibers are torn. In third-degree sprains, which is considered a medical emergency, most, if not all the fibers are torn.

2. Strains 

A muscle strain, also known as a pulled muscle, are injuries to the muscles or tendons. This occurs when you put the muscle under undue pressure during daily activities such as doing sudden heavy lifting during exercise or sports.

3. Tendinitis/Tendonitis

Tendinitis, also known as tendonitis, is an inflammation of the tendon, a thick cord that attaches the bone to muscle. Too much stress during exercising can tear and inflame tendons. This injury is characterized by dull but constant soreness that worsens as you start to move. 

4. Muscle cramps and spasms

Cramp is a common problem especially for those who like to do running and jogging as their exercise. These are strong and sustained contractions of the muscles which are often resolved by stretching and good conditioning pre-run. 

When any of the injuries mentioned above occur during your exercise, we suggest using the RICE method which is proven effective in treating injuries.

Rest

Immediately rest the injured/affected area as much as possible. It is recommended that there will be strict 24-48 hours of no weight-bearing activities, giving the injury enough time to fully heal.

Ice

Apply ice to the injured area for 20 minutes with 4 hours interval. This method will help reduce pain and swelling during the first 48 hours of the injury.

Compression

Pressure can help in reducing swelling and inflammation. In most cases, a simple elastic bandage will suffice to compress the injured area. Use a medical bandage if available. 

Elevation

Raise the injured body part above the heart level. In that way, gravity can move fluids away from the injured area.

Seeking Medical Attention After an Exercise Related Injury

While most minor injuries can be treated at home, major injuries can still occur when exercising. If you are unsure of the severity of the injury, be sure to consult your doctors/physicians before beginning any sort of treatment.

To learn more about First Aid for minor and major injuries, enroll in one of our first aid training courses where you will learn from recognising the signs to first aid application. 

[firstaidexperts]

4 First Aid Steps Towards Emergency Preparedness

The importance of preparing ourselves for emergencies is universal. Disasters, illnesses, and other emergencies can happen to anyone regardless of age, location, or status in life. 

With that said, it is the best idea to learn basic first aid and emergency protocols. Having the right skills and knowledge will ensure that you can respond quickly and appropriately in case of an emergency. These situations can strike out anytime, anywhere, and we will never know when a situation will arise that will demand quick thinking, calm nerves, and a little bit of first aid know-how.

While natural disasters and health emergencies cannot always be avoided, we can actually prepare for them. Here are 4 steps you can do to be emergency ready.

1. Injury Prevention

The famous line 'prevention is better than cure' is also applicable to this situation. It is far better to take preventative measures than trying to mend the problem afterward. The best step you can take towards injury prevention is education. Take time to learn the potential risks, hazards, and other most common emergencies that could affect you and those who are near you. Research about different types of natural disasters and which of those can most likely happen in your area. Nothing beats being informed when it comes to prevention.

2. Take Emergency Action Steps

A clear action plan is a good way to streamline your responses during an emergency. Consider different types of emergencies such as a house fire, a hurricane, or unexpected injury. Create an emergency action plan for each of those and break down your plan into steps – before, during, and after. Establish an emergency communication plan and have an emergency supply ready (water, food, and medications)

3. Have a complete first aid kit ready. 

In any type of emergency, a first aid kit is a standard item to have in your home, car, and workplace. A first aid kit contains items such as bandages, gauze, scissors, and gloves. It is usually stocked with medical supplies such as antiseptic wipes, antibiotics, aspirin, and ointments. First aid kits can be tailored based on the need of the people that will use it. Keep it in a location that is accessible to the adults but out of the prying eyes of the children.

4. First Aid Training

During an emergency, the best thing you can do is to stay ‘cool under pressure. Panicking can only hamper your critical thinking and ability to respond quickly. Therefore, First Aid Training should be a part of your emergency preparation. A good first aid training will teach you how to be an effective first responder and will help you how to remain calm while responding to a variety of emergencies. 

Take charge and take control to be an emergency prepared as possible. Enroll in a quality first aid course to get the best training in emergency preparedness. Learn how to perform CPR, use an AED, and other first-aid skills that can save a life.

[firstaidexperts]

5 Biggest Safety Hazards in Your Home – Melbourne First Aid Courses

We all like to think of our homes as sanctuaries of comfort and security but the truth is, there is a wide array of hazards lurking around our homes. In fact, one-third of reported cases of injuries occur in Australian households, often involving accidental-injuries among children and the elderly.

The Home Safety Council (HSC) research shows that unintentional home injuries result in nearly 21 million medical visits each year – equivalent to $220 billion in medical costs. There are also records of 20,000 deaths and 2000 of which are children.

Keeping your family safe starts with giving them a home that is safe to live in. To kick start your personal awareness on home safety, the first step is to educate yourself on common safety hazards present in an everyday home. 

Here are five of the most common household safety hazards with corresponding First Aid tips to make sure you are on top of your game in keeping your family safe. 

Falls

The simplest of hazards ends up being one of the worse. In fact, Falls are the leading cause of home injury deaths both for young children and adults. One in every three people suffers a fall that causes moderate or severe injuries and increases the risk of death.

To prevent falls, stabilize staircases, and install supports to assist family members. Also, keep the place clear of debris or anything you can trip over.

Poisoning

Poisoning is the second leading cause of deadly accidents in the home, taking about 5,000 lives every year. This safety hazard is most common in young adults and people in their middle ages. Poisoning is often caused by unsafe storage of medications and improper mixing of drugs.

Reduce the risk of poisoning by keeping all the drugs and toxic material in a safe place and out of the prying hands of the children. 

Fire and Burns

Residential fires and burns are the third leading cause of accidental home injury deaths, claiming more than 3,000 lives a year. An unattended iron, candles, and other fire hazards could lead to an accidental fire in the household.

To prevent fires and burn from escalating, religiously check if appliances are in good working order and have plenty of working smoke alarms. Also, learn how to use a fire extinguisher to stop the fire while it is in its early stages. 

Airway Obstruction

Obstructed airway injuries (choking, suffocation, and strangulation) are the fourth leading cause of unintentional deaths in the home. It claims about 1,000 fatalities every year, mostly young children below 2 years of age.

To minimize the risk, pay special attention during their meal and playtime as it is very easy for kids to choke or suffocate on little things. Monitor their food, toys, and keep dangers out of reach.

5. Drowning

Water-related injuries, particularly drowning, are the leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 4. Water is considered a high-risk to children as they can drown in as little as 2 inches of water.  

To eliminate the risk of drowning, do not keep your eye away from your children during their bath time. NEVER leave them unattended in a bathtub or any places with water sources.

Nothing is more important than the safety of our family members. This blog is just an overview of what you need to know to make your house safe. Hope this sparks your awareness of home safety and gives you some useful tips to keep these hazards from hurting our loved ones.

Learn First Aid and be prepared for unwanted emergencies. Enroll in one of our First Aid Course in Melbourne and learn the DRSABCD, how to perform CPR, and use AED. 

[firstaidexperts]

3 Do’s and Don’ts of Social Distancing

Social distancing is an attempt to slow the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus (COVID-19). Countries, states, and cities globally have implemented various restrictions on social distancing and have encouraged people to stay at home to help curb the spread of the virus.

The rule may vary in different areas which is why you need to know the social distancing rules on where you live.

Social Distancing in Australia

On March 29, the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison MP has released an update on social distancing measures to protect the community from the spread of COVID-19. There would be the highest priority placed on further social isolation measures, as well as strict and rapid contact tracing of individuals. The National Cabinet also reiterated the practice of good hygiene and keeping a healthy physical distance to Combat COVID-19. 

Currently, we are practicing a social distance of 1.5 meters from other people and no gathering of more than 10 people in one place.

Social Distancing – Do’s and Don’ts

We can all help stop the spread of the virus. The more distance between you and others, the harder it is for the virus to transmit. Here are several dos and don'ts of social distancing.

Social distancing – Do’s

Participate in Virtual Activities

Keep a daily virtual routine and participate in virtual workout classes, book clubs, or streaming activity of your choice.

Facetime your Family and Friends

Maintaining social connections is extremely important during this time where everyone is anxious and worried. There are other ways that you can do that using digital means. Communicate and stay in touch with your friend's neighbors, and relatives using facetime and other video applications.

Order Takeout and Delivery

Most bars and restaurants are closed to the public but delivery and take out are usually available. Support local businesses near you and order a delivery for dinner. Many food delivery apps, such as Uber eats, offer contactless delivery, meaning there will be zero contact policy during delivery.

 Social distancing – Don’ts

Take Public Transportation

It is a DON’T but there are instances where some people can't work at home and have essentials delivered at their house and have to take subways or buses. When doing so, try to stand away from other people as far as possible. Wear facial masks and take safety precautions before and after the ride.

Social Gatherings

Now is the time to cancel get-togethers including dating, family visits, and house parties. These gatherings should all be postponed or held virtually if possible. 

Non-essential appointments

Road travel and all other activities should be reserved for essentials (grocery shopping, medical appointments, and such). Your hair, nails, and other non-essential appointments can wait after restrictions are lifted.

Social distancing is slowing the spread of the virus and allowing our health care system to cope. By following set restrictions, we are also buying time for our researches and scientists to develop new tools for rapid detection, as well as treatments (such as vaccines). 

For now, what we can do is to take the best care of ourselves and learn new skills that will help us do it. 

First Aid Online 

Learn First Aid at the Safety of your own home. First Aid Pro is offering Live webinar training where you can learn health and safety tips for coronavirus and other emergencies. Learn First Aid, CPR, and AED to keep yourself and loved one safe during the pandemic season.

[firstaidexperts]

What is Stress and How it Links to Mental Health?

Stress is something that most of us experience now and then. Despite being unpleasant, the stress in itself is not considered as an illness. However, medical professional have found connections between stress and several mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.

According to studies, stress and its causes have effects on the general wellbeing of a person and it links to mental health.

Therefore, a better understanding of stress and its proper management is vital because the more we understand stress, the better we can tackle the condition.

In this blog, we explore the link between stress and mental health and what are the proven ways you can do to reduce stress.

The Biology of Mental Health and Stress

Chronic and long-term stress increases the risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. 

Scientists suggest that there is a biochemical link between stress and mental illness. Long-term stress affects brain structure, especially in areas that support our learning and memory. Stress affects both the nerve cells and the connections between them.

These changes along with other factors can increase the likelihood of a person developing mental illness.

If you’re feeling stress, whether by your job or something more personal, try the following ways to reduce your stress levels and avoid getting any mental complications.

     1. Deep breathing excises

This type of exercise as well as physical movements can lower your cortisol (body’s stress hormones) and activates the parasympathetic nervous system that will help you relax.

Breathing exercises such as Yoga helps you focus your breath awareness, making it slower and deeper. This is extremely helpful in combating stress and panic attacks. 

     2. Laugh and have fun

I know it sounds cliché but laughter/laughing can drastically improve your mood and immune system.  It relaxes your muscles in the body and can lead to a feeling of well-being.

     3. Listen to your body

Observe how your body responds to stress. Recognise the signs of stress such as difficulty sleeping, increased alcohol intake, anger issues, feeling depressed, and having low energy. With that. Paying attention to these signs can give you a better indication of your mental health. Be conscious of how your body communicates with you on multiple levels.

     4. Take control and take a step back

The feeling of losing control is a key contributor to having that 'panic' feeling.

The act of taking emotional control is empowering in its own right and depending on the stress causes, may instantly relieve some of the panics you are feeling. 

Also, learn how to say NO as it is a part of taking control. Take a step back and simplify things in your life to help reduce stress.

If possible – delegate! If someone else can take the strain – let it go!

     5. Consult a health professional

Do not wait until its too late. Go to a doctor and get proper health care for existing or new health problems. Proper treatment can help you decrease stress that is already affecting your relationships and ability to work.

Another thing you should consider is taking a Mental Health First Aid Training.

Mental Health First Aid Training offered by First Aid Pro will help you to build resilience and support yourself and others by reviewing basic principles of providing mental health first aid, including how to recognise and manage stress in yourself and others.

Stress can affect your overall health. You must pay attention to how you deal with minor and major stress and know when to seek help.

If you’re looking for a recognized Mental First Aid Course, do not hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to assist you. 

[firstaidexperts]

Where’s Your Nearest Defibrillator?

People are having cardiac arrest within 50 meters of a defibrillator yet still many people are dying because no one knew it was there. 

Shocking figures show that an automated external defibrillator (AED) can increase someone’s chance of cardiac arrest survival by up to 90% if applied immediately. This significantly increases the survival chance of tens of thousands of people in Australia every year. 

Defibrillators can be easily accessed by bystanders when a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) occurs in a public place. If a shock from an AED is applied within the first minute of collapse, chances that the victim will not sustain any brain damage or long-term disability. While victims who do not receive defibrillation drops their chances of survival, leaving a 10-minute' window of opportunity’

There are a lot of publicly available Defibrillators in Australia and people only need to know where they are.

Where are the Defibs?

Thousands of defibrillators are installed in different locations across Australia. Some of them are easy to spot in public areas, while others are private and are not easily visible. It is crucial to know their locations, because in an emergency, finding the nearest defibrillator and getting it to the victim quickly can be the difference between life and death. 

The location varies in different states, but AEDs are most common in large public areas, such as:

Hospitals / Care Centres – defibrillators in hospitals are mostly found in the emergency department (ED), admission wards, operating rooms, the radiology department, the cafeteria, and as well in elevators.

Schools and Gymnasiums – both locations are high-risk areas and usually have high concentrations of people during school and after school events. AEDs are usually located at the main office or the staff room.

Public Parks – Defibrillators are often placed in bright-colored boxes in prominent positions on the park. 

Health and Fitness Clubs – this includes golf, football, soccer, swimming, hockey, and cricket clubs. Defibs are usually found behind the bad or function rooms, where the center of the club is located.

Shopping Malls/Centres – central locations in the mall such as information desk/centres or in cinemas.

Business Offices - ground level next to the evacuation plan

Airport – nearly every major airport in Australia is equipped with one or more devices in every terminal. 

Arenas, Concert Halls, Event Venues - most of these venues attended by hundreds, if not thousands of people. It is a requirement to have defibrillators installed in all visible areas. 

How Defibrillators Work

This device often comes with verbal instructors to help its users.

First, turn on the device and follow the voice prompts. Some AED devices turn on automatically once the lid is opened. Attached the electrodes or the two sticky pads on the chest of the person in cardiac arrest. The electrodes will then send information about the person's heart rhythm in the AED processor, which will analyse the rhythm to find out whether an electric shock is needed.

If a shock is needed, the AED voice prompts will instruct when to press the release button to deliver the shock. 

First Aid Training to Use AEDs

AED devices are not difficult to use but training in the use of AED is highly recommended to everyone. This training, in connection with CPR and First Aid, is offered by registered training organisations (RTOs) in Australia. 

First Aid Classes will teach you how to recognise the signs of a sudden cardiac arrest when to call an ambulance, how to perform CPR, and how to use an AED. These also include the role of Defibrillation in DRSABCD. 

DRSABCD is the foundation of first aid training. It stands for Danger, Response, Send, Airway, Breathing, CPR, and Defibrillator. This first aid acronym will help you have an action plan on how to respond in a medical emergency.

Learn More

The initiative to improve awareness of AED use and its whereabouts could potentially save thousands of lives. Learn more about sudden cardiac arrest and defibrillators in our First Aid Training Course.

We conduct training at many locations Australia-wide and our key locations are in South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. 

Talk to us today.

[firstaidexperts]

Keeping ‘remote’ employees safe during COVID-19

Following the novel coronavirus disease, 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, preventative and safety measures have been put in place to fight the spread of the disease. This includes businesses and workplaces which are greatly affected during this crisis.

In the past two months, working from home is the 'new normal' for many. However, due to the unprecedented change to some, it is sometimes unclear what regulatory applies. In comparison to the designated office, some of our homes do not have smoke detectors, ergonomic workplaces, and safety protocols.

Remote work arrangements may be accompanied by unique management challenges in terms of safety, health, and environmental excellence. The transition creates a new set of challenges for the owners to maintain and improve their SH&E performance. 

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Act (the OSH Act), all Australian businesses/employers, including those who have entered 'work from home' arrangements with the employees, are responsible for complying with safety and health standard. 

To help the business owners/employers do their part in this pandemic, we have prepared some tips to ensure the safety of all remote workers.

Make safety, health, and environmental performance clear.

This is one of the key strategies to ensure the safety of alternative workspace employees. As the owner, you are responsible for establishing objectives and accountability within the business unit or site leadership. Provide them with a point of contact where they can discuss their concerns and find workplace information in a central place. 

Make sure to have frequent contact with your employees.

Don’t lose track of your employees. Establish frequent communications via chat or conference call and as to how they are coping with the transition. Consult them if there are any risks to their physical and mental health. Refer them to appropriate channels to support workplace physical and mental health and well-being, if deemed necessary. 

Raise awareness

Employees need to be in sync with the company's requirements for health and safety. To do that, managers or assigned points of contact should acquire special skills in communications and coaching to efficiently manage the remote employees. Be well informed with updates from official resources and share relevant information that may be useful to them.

Provide a regular routine for employees

Establish a work start time, end of shift time, and allotted time to take their regular breaks. A regular routine in place will help avoid burnout and may increase productivity. Remind them that working from home does not change their day to day work, it just means that they will be doing it in a different environment.

Ensure health and safety compliance

Obligations under WHS laws include ton have health and safety strategies suitable to meet the need of employees.  This includes First Aid Training and Emergency Preparedness in the workplace.

First aid training helps employees learn to be more conscious of safety inside and outside of the workplace. It may lead to a reduced number of accidents and injuries, and minimised the risk for the workers.

Each business should provide first aid emergency training to its employees to deal with remote work, the isolation, and the risks they might experience due to COVID-19.

Contact our team on 1300 029 132 or email courses@firstaidpro.com.au to discuss the first aid training option for your business.

[firstaidexperts]

Providing First Aid to the Elderly

Accidents can happen to anyone, but the elderly or older adults are more prone to certain types of injuries that may require special care. Fortunately, many of these situations can be managed with basic CPR and First Aid knowledge. This article will share first aid techniques that can be helpful to know for helping older adults specifically.

Here is everything you need to know about Elderly First Aid.

For Cuts and Scrapes:

As we age, the healing process of our body slows down, making us susceptible to heavy bleeding, even with minor cuts or scrapes. When a wound appears, it is crucial to take first aid action immediately so the wound will heal properly without any infection or complications. 

If the wound is bleeding, start with applying pressure until the bleeding stops. Try to remove any dirt, glass, or debris then use soap or saline solution to clean the wound. Elevate the bleeding area and apply bandages firmly. If the bleeding does not stop or there are signs of infection—such as redness or inflammation of the area, call an ambulance immediately.

For Broken Bones:

The bones in our body turn brittle and become weaker as we grow old. Even slight pressure can cause the bone to snap, which is why sprains and fractures are very common among the elderly.

When performing first aid for a broken bone, apply ice to the injured area and keep the elderly lying down and as still as possible.  Do not move the patient and make sure that a splint is used to immobilize the injury in case of moving. Apply cold pack covered with a towel to the fractured area for 10 minutes to minimise pain.

For Elderly Fall:

One-third of people age 65 and up experience fall every year. There are several reasons why older people are more prone to falling, these include:

Decline in physical fitness/Decreased stability

Impaired vision

Fatigue

Underlying medical conditions

If the elderly have fallen, help him or her to get into a comfortable position, elevating any injured areas. Apply an ice pack on minor bumps and bruises for 10 minutes. If significant bruising, swelling or bleeding is present, get medical care immediately.

To prevent bone fractures for the elderly, regular medical checkups, and assessments of the risk factor are recommended. Maintain a safe household environment to avoid falling and stumbling.

For Cardiovascular Problems:

Old age comes with changes in the heart and blood vessels function, putting older adults at greater risk of heart attacks, heart failures, and stroke. Use F.A.S.T to look for signs and symptoms of a heart attack.

Facial Drooping

Arm Weakness

Speech Difficulty

Time for Action

If you think an elderly is having a stroke or heart attack, call 000 or emergency medical services (EMS0. Stay with them and reassure them until help arrives. If they become unconscious or have breathing difficulties, perform CPR.

[firstaidexperts]

New CPR Guidelines on COVID-19

With the rise of COVID-19 infections across the globe, the American Heart Association (AHA) has issued a new set of interim guidelines in providing CPR and emergency care for cardiac arrest patients during the coronavirus pandemic. 

According to AHA, special precautions shall be taken when resuscitating people in cardiac arrest with known or suspected coronavirus (COVID-19) infection. 

The goal of the new Interim Guidelines for Basic and Advance Life Support is to ensure that patients who experienced cardiac arrest (with or without COVID-19) will have the best possible chance of survival without sacrificing the safety of the rescuers. The new rules also include information standard precautions for emergency medical services (EMS) and first responders. 

Application of CPR on COVID-19 

The COVID-19 is identified as a highly contagious viral infection. As the virus progresses to its critical stages, it can cause breathing difficulties and pneumonia in some affected individuals resulting in fatalities. Quick response and performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) will increase the chance of survival of the patient. 

When giving CPR, there is a high risk that the victim you are attending to carries the virus. Important to remember that cross-infection is more likely to occur when issuing rescue breathes during these times. 

To protect yourself from the virus while issuing CPR and emergency care to COVID-19 patients, here are some of the guidelines from AHA that you should follow:

Wear eye protection, gloves, and gowns. 

If possible, avoid procedures that involve generating aerosols (such as bag-valve-mask, nebulizers, and pressure ventilation)

When performing aerosol-generating procedures such as CPR and intubation, exposed providers should perform it in an airborne infection isolation room (AIIRs) with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). 

N95 respirators that offer a high level of protection should be used instead of a regular face mask. If a respirator is not available, that is the only time providers can use face masks.

For EMS and other first-aid responders, here are additional guidelines: 

Prehospital care providers and healthcare facilities should be notified ahead of time that they may be caring, transporting, or receiving patients who may have COVID-19 infection. 

Once the emergency medical dispatchers advise that COVID-19 is suspected, EMS personnel should follow Standard Precautions, including the use of PPE.

Emergency care practices should base on the most up to date COVID-19 clinical recommendations and information from appropriate health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organisation (WHO). 

The AHA’S Interim guidance for Basic CPR and emergency first aid care during the Coronavirus outbreak are available online at firstaidpro.com.au

Train with Us

Our HLTAID001 – Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) covering AED will include details on how to give chess compression and rescue breathing during cardiac emergencies. This course also covers the use of an automated defibrillator (AED) to restore the normal heartbeat.

For more information about CPR, AED and First Aid Training, email us  at courses@firstaidpro.com.au or call 1300 029 132