How to Prepare for Medical Emergencies

Working in an ambulance corp. has taught me a lot about life. And along the way it has also taught me about medical emergencies. There are a few things people should know that could really help them. I will give you tips for how to prepare for emergencies, and then what to do once one occurs.
No one plans to have an accident or medical emergency. But maybe they should. Being prepared for anything should not just be left to the boy scouts. Knowing what to expect in case of an emergency is very important to how well that emergency will be handled.

Everyone home should have emergency supplies. Do not mix these up with your shampoos, razor blades and nail polish. Have the emergency supplies in an easy to locate, designated place. I would recommend not just having the basic band-aids, gauze and antiseptics in the kit. You should also put together sterile gloves, tweezers, scissors, burn ointment and eye wash solution. Having a fire-proof blanket, high beam flashlight, flares, rope, candles, matches, and bottled water are all great ideas.

Knowing your emergency numbers can save you minutes, which can save lives. Have available your local fire department, poison control, and the police (911). All children that are old enough should know 911, and their address.

Knowledge, especially in this case, is power. A lot of communities offer basic classes in emergency medical care. Knowing how to properly utilize the Heimlich maneuver and CPR can be very critical. Parents, especially, should go take a class. You will hopefully never need to use it, but being prepared is important.

Use this web page to find a certified class near you:
American Heart Association

Having someone's medical history and prescriptions available is also very important. When an ambulance arrives, or you take someone to the hospital, some of the first questions asked will be about prior conditions and current medications. Having all this is very important to ensuring someone can get the proper care in the first few minutes. Keep an updated list of medications handy. This is especially handy in the case of the elderly. Many times they forget or cannot remember what they take. Help prepare a list for them to have in case they are alone and in trouble.

If an emergency does occur it is important to stay calm. Easier said than done, I know. But the better you are able to handle the situation the better it is for whomever is in trouble. If you are dealing with a child, or even an adult, being calm can help them stay calm. If you are unsure if the situation is bad enough to merit a call to 911 or a trip to the emergency room always err on the side of caution. Don't feel foolish calling for help. If you deem it an emergency, so will we.
In case of an accident or emergency you must remember your safety! Do not dive into a hazardous situation in an attempt to help someone else. When help arrives they will have an extra person to now take care of. Safety first, always.

If you are waiting for an ambulance make sure that the house number is legible. Have the lights on outdoors. You want the ambulance crew to be able to find you as easily as possible. It is at this time you should gather the information on the person in trouble. Get their medical records and prescription list together.

Do not interfere with the police, firefighters or medical crew. They are there to help and protect you. I find that especially in accidents with children the parents are reluctant to leave their sides. We sympathize with this, but we are trying to do what is best for your child. Let us.

If you are driving to the hospital make sure you drive safely. There is no reason to cause further problems by getting into an accident. If you are following an ambulance and it goes through a red light you are not to follow it. Accidents are known to happen from this circumstance often. Do not add to the problem. Follow all laws.

Accidents and medical emergencies can be difficult times. Being prepared and knowing how to react can be invaluable.