When accidents happen having a first aider on the scene can really make a difference, sometimes between life and death. First aiders are vital for providing an immediate response until emergency services can take over. When you work in environments that require you to operate heavy machinery, being a first aider can mean saving a colleague’s life, which is why training organisations, such as Pro Trainers UK recommend the training of first aiders in the workplace. However, being a good first aider isn’t just about learning first aid skills, it also requires many important personal qualities.

The Ability To Lead

If you are the only first aider at the scene of an accident, you need to take control. Remember, you are the most qualified person there and you know what you are doing. Everyone should listen to you and be ready to take orders if necessary.

A Clear Communicator

You will not only have to communicate with any bystanders/colleagues but also with the patient. Communicating with someone who could be in immense pain or not fully conscious can be very difficult. You must be clear and specific when asking them what happened and how they are feeling. You will also be in charge of passing the patient on to the paramedics once they arrive, you must be able to clearly explain the situation to them.

Calm And Ready

You must be composed and confident. Take your time but be decisive. Panicking will only make the situation worse and any bystanders/colleagues will lose faith in your ability to take care of the situation.

Provider Of Comfort

In an accident, the patient may be in a high state of pain, shock and/or panic. You will need to calm them down and remind them that everything will be okay. Providing comfort can be vital as it can make it easier to examine the patient and hand them over to paramedics.

Split Second Decision Maker

Once you have taken control of the scene, calmed the patient (if conscious) and understand the situation, you will need to be quick in making the right decisions. This not only means being fast at taking action but also being decisive and sticking to that decision.

On The Spot Improviser

What happens when the first aid box is empty? Or what if you don’t even have one? You will need to use any available materials around you to provide quick temporary care that will be effective until more experienced professionals arrive.

For more information about First Aid Training contact Pro Trainers UK who can provide you and your team with the highest quality training guidance.