First aid tips

Knowing how to do basic first aid, and when to call for an ambulance, is life-saving knowledge.

In an emergency

St John urges people to dial 111 and ask for an ambulance when there is a medical emergency. So what constitutes an emergency?

Key situations when it is an emergency include:
  • When someone has chest pain or tightness (can also be felt in arm, jaw, upper abdomen)
  • A person has difficulty breathing
  • When someone is choking
  • A person faints or is unconscious
  • Someone is suffering severe pain
  • When there is severe bleeding or bleeding that won’t stop

First aid techniques 

There are also many first aid techniques you should know. Some help with everyday situations like a minor burn, others will help save someone’s life before an ambulance arrives.

St John offers first aid courses that can help you gain knowledge. They also have a free CPR app on offer. See http://www.stjohn.org.nz for more details.

5 first aid techniques you should know about:
  • How to resuscitate someone (get them breathing again)
  • How to stop bleeding
  • How to treat a burn
  • What to do if someone is choking
  • Steps to take if someone has an allergic reaction

First aid kit

A well-stocked first aid kit also goes a long way to help in minor and major emergencies. You should have one in your home, car and boat.

St John and other suppliers sell a range of first aid kits.

Key items to have in your first aid kit include:
  • Plasters
  • Pain reliever medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (including Pamol if you have children)
  • Antiseptic wipes or cream
  • Crepe bandages
  • Disposable gloves
  • Saline solution
  • A thermal blanket

Free health advice is available from registered nurses 24/7 through Healthline 0800 611 116. You should always ring 111 in an emergency.