In this Study Session, you have learnt that:

1. A respiratory emergency is a condition in which breathing is reduced or stopped so that oxygen in taking is insufficient (lacking) to support life. Anything that interferes or blocks the flow of air in and out of the lung can cause a respiratory emergency. The causes of a respiratory emergency can be an anatomical obstruction, mechanical obstruction, air depleted oxygen containing toxic gases, circulatory collapse ( shock), heart disease, lung disease (e.g., pneumonia, strangulation, compression of the chest), poisoning with alcohol, electric shock, etc. For any Respiratory emergency, artificial respiration or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated accordingly, after checking that the airway is clear.
2. The objective of the external cardiac massage or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is to compress the heart between the sternum and the backbone (spine) thus literally squeezing blood out of it. The steps of CPR involves:
   • Lay the causality on a firm flat surface.
   • Kneel close to the side at right angles to him and alongside his/her chest.
   • Press the lower third of the sternum with the heels of your hands.
   • Check the carotid pulse every few minutes.
   • Chest compression – ventilation 30: 2, for 5 cycles.
3. Injuries can cause bleeding, and this bleeding can be internal or external. External bleeding can be controlled by:
   • Application of direct pressure using a thick pad.
   • Elevation of the part.
   • Pressure on the supplying artery (Pressure point technique).
   • Application of a Tourniquet (optional).
4. Fracture is a break or crack in the continuation of a bone. The first aid measure for fracture is the following:
   • Rescue if necessary and protect against further injury.
   • Control bleeding in an open fracture.
   • Immobilise the part.
   • Elevate involved extremities if possible without disturbing the suspected fracture.
   • If a fragment of bone is protruding, cover the entire wound with a sterile dressing.
   • Don’t replace any bone fragment.
   • Do not wash, or do not insert your fingers into the wound.
   • Apply splint and transport immediately.
   • Use an arm sling for an arm fracture.