If you encounter a medical emergency then call an ambulance immediately. Do not move the patient if:
- You think there may be a back or neck injury or any other injury that could be made worse by movement
- The person is in shock
- The person has breathing problems
- The person has severe chest pains
If the patient is not ill or seriously injured then we recommend that you escort them to the accident department at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, or alternatively call 111 for medical advice.
When should I seek urgent medical attention?
You should seek urgent medical attention in the event of:
- Head injuries
- Loss of consciousness
- Severe bleeding, chest or stomach pains
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Choking
How do I put someone in the recovery position?
If the patient is unconscious but breathing, turn them on their side. Check that their airway is open by lifting their chin and tilting the head back slightly.
How to recognise severe chest pain or a heart attack
- Vice-like pain in the middle of the chest, often spreading down the left arm and jaw
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden faintness or giddiness
- Grey pallor to the skin
- Lips look blue
If the pain does not ease ring 999 immediately and make the patient as comfortable as possible until medical assistance arrives.
How to recognise medical shock
If medical shock occurs, the patient will become pale, sweaty, drowsy and confused. If the remain conscious, seek urgent medical attention and do not give them anything to eat or drink until help arrives. If they are unconscious, place in the recovery position until assistance arrives.
How to treat burns
Apply large quantities of cold water to the affected area as soon as possible and maintain this until the pain subsides. This may take as long as 15 minutes! If the skin is unbroken but blistered, apply a loose, dry dressing. If the burn is larger than four or five inches in diameter or if the skin is broken, consult your doctor as soon as possible.