Explain the concept of first aid.

Explanation should include

• defining first aid
• goals of first aid (e.g., prevent condition from becoming worse, provide pain relief)
• techniques involved in initial care (e.g., attending to ABCs—airway, breathing, circulation; controlling hemorrhage)
• ways to secure the environment and provide for human safety
• basic measures that can be performed “in the field”.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What are some situations a veterinary assistant might encounter that would require first aid?
• What steps could a veterinary assistant take to help assess a patient’s condition when speaking with a client over the telephone?
• What measures should be taken to ensure the safety of a person performing first aid?