Dental Operations

If a tooth socket starts to bleed after extraction, encourage the person to spit the blood out rather than swallow it. Place a clean pad of gauze over the socket and ask the person to bite on it for 15-20 minutes. Once the bleeding has stopped, rinse the mouth with...

Diabetic Coma

Both diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus can, if incorrectly managed, lead to unconsciousness and even death. The symptoms of hyperglycemia (too much blood sugar) come on gradually, while those of hypoglycemia (too little blood sugar) can be sudden and dramatic....

Dislocations

Dislocation occurs when the bones at a joint are forcibly knocked or twisted apart, this causes severe pain, sometimes nausea, inability to move the joint, swelling, bruising, and obvious deformity. For the first aider, dislocations are often difficult to distinguish...

Drowning

Do not attempt to drain fluid from the lungs of someone who has nearly drowned. Start artificial respiration (see Breathing) as soon as possible at the water’s edge or in the boat – and dial 911. Continue artificial respiration for up to 1 hour if...

Ear Injuries

Ears are very delicate and only the gentlest measures should be taken to dislodge any foreign objects from the outer ear canal. Foreign Body in the Ear If a small bead or insect gets into the ear, wash out the ear with tepid Hypericum and Calendula solution. Tilt the...

Electrocution & Electrical Injuries

Electrical shocks can stop a person’s breathing or heart, and also cause burns (see Shock, Burns and scalds). If the victim is still in contact with the electricity source, be extremely careful that you don’t become the next casualty. Switch off the...