First Aid and Sports: The Importance of Timely Medical Attention
In today’s world, understanding and being able to give first aid can prevent serious consequences in the gym, or wherever the emergency happens. Here’s everything you need to know about first aid.
Whatever sport you practice or workout you do, you need to be aware that accidents may happen as a result of the movements or nature of the activity itself. The risk increases in the case of outdoor activities.
In light of the possible dangers, you should know how to react in certain situations. Everyone should know and be able to give basic first aid. That especially includes people who play a role where any physical activity takes place, regardless if they’re on the field or in the stands.
Time: is it important in first aid?
Being quick matters in a medical emergency. When faced with an accident or injury, time is fundamental. Acting quickly is key for minimizing the consequences that could result from an accident.
Cardiac arrest
Among the problems we fear the most in any accident or situation, is cardiac arrest. A high percentage of people around the world die from cardiac arrest.
Cardiovascular workouts are quite popular these days and as a result, we should know the CPR basics. Additionally, we should know the steps to follow in case we face an emergency situation.
To reduce the risks of a situation worsening, we need to know the chain of survival. By following the steps of the chain, you can reduce the risk that the victim has, in the event of cardiac failure.
The chain of survival has four links. You should follow through each one for a positive outcome:
- Activation of the emergency response system by calling 112 or your local emergency number.
- Standard CPR.
- Rapid defibrillation.
- Advanced life-support.
Keep in mind that Spanish studies have shown that timely CPR from anyone who knows the basics can improve, even triple, the chances of the victim’s survival in cardiac arrest.
Can you reduce the risk of death by responding?
In many cases, properly administered first aid can prevent serious situations in sports-related accidents or injuries. In light of that, we recommend taking action to prepare yourself for such incidents.
- First aid training. After completing a course, you can also use your experience on your resume.
- Installing semi-automatic AED in private and public spaces. They’re easy to use and don’t require special training. But, they play a key role in the span of time before medical attention arrives. These days, using administering a semi-automatic AED is just as easy as using any other electronic device.
In short, everyone should have a basic understanding of first aid. A quick response can save a life. Don’t forget that health is on the line– inform yourself before disaster strikes!
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Cruz Roja (2007) Manual de primeros auxilios. Editado por Pearson Educación.
- Lago, J. (2018). La enseñanza de los primeros auxilios en educación física: revisión sistemática acerca de los materiales para su implementación.
- Miró, O., Díaz, N. (2012). Revisión de las iniciativas llevadas a cabo en España para implementar la enseñanza de la reanimación cardiopulmonar básica en las escuelas. An. Sist. Sanit. Navarra. 35(3): 477-486.
- Palacios, J., Barcala, R., González, F. y Oleagordia. A. (2008). Primeros auxilios y socorrismo acuático. Prevención e intervención. Madrid. Editorial: Paraninfo.
