How to become a First Aider

September 17, 2024
Understanding how to become a first aider involves completing a certified first aid course, gaining hands-on experience, and regularly updating your skills with refresher training.
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How to become a First Aider

Understanding how to become a first aider involves completing a certified first aid course, gaining hands-on experience, and regularly updating your skills with refresher training.

What are the main types of first aid?

How to become a First Aider

First aiders are responsible for providing immediate care in an emergency until professional medical help arrives and are essential to workplace safety, public health, and personal preparedness. Depending on the level of training and the environment in which they practise, there are several different types of first aiders:

  1. Workplace First Aider: Workplace first aiders are trained to treat injuries and medical emergencies that might occur in an office, factory, or construction site. Employers must ensure that first aid training is provided to a certain number of the workforce, depending on the size of the workforce and the nature of the job.
  2. Emergency First Aider: An emergency first aider should be able to deal with serious problems such as cardiac arrests, severe bleeding, and shock, and fulfil a more advanced role in these circumstances. Emergency first aiders can be the first on the scene in places where the public gathers, schools, and workplaces where emergencies can suddenly and unexpectedly occur.
  3. Paediatric First Aider: Paediatric first aiders are trained to provide first aid for infants and children, including how to manage choking, what to do if someone isn’t breathing, and how to treat common childhood injuries (such as burns or falls).
  4. Sports First Aider: Sports first aiders are trained to handle injuries that often occur during sporting events – such as sprains, fractures, and head injuries. They are likely to attend sportspeople or sporting events, providing early care until an ambulance arrives.
  5. Mental Health First Aider: Mental health first aiders provide immediate psychological support and help refer individuals facing mental health crises (such as anxiety attacks, panic disorders, or suicidal thoughts) to professional mental health services.
  6. Event First Aider: Event first aiders provide medical assistance at public events, festivals, concerts, or mass gatherings with a high risk of injury or medical emergency. They may deal with a range of medical circumstances, from superficial injuries to severe incidents.
  7. Community First Aider: A community first aider is a trained volunteer who can assist in their local area. They may work with charities such as the Red Cross or St John Ambulance, ready to help in public emergencies, natural disasters, or local events.
  8. Combat First Aider: A combat first aider is a member of a military or paramilitary group who receives training to provide medical care in combat situations, such as on a battlefield or in a conflict zone. They learn to treat trauma injuries, including gunshot wounds, burns, and shock, and to perform advanced procedures such as applying a tourniquet or stabilising an airway.
  9. Remote Area First Aider: A remote area first aider knows how to handle medical emergencies in isolated areas or wilderness, where professional help might take a while to arrive. This includes improvising with limited resources to treat conditions like dehydration, hypothermia, and snake bites.
  10. Aquatic First Aider: Aquatic first aiders assist individuals injured or experiencing medical emergencies near water, such as drowning or near-drowning. Lifeguards, for example, are often water-based first aid providers, offering first aid (including CPR) and rescue for water-related injuries.

What Does a First Aider Do?

First aiders provide initial care for someone who is injured or suddenly taken ill. The responsibilities of a first aider include ensuring the person survives, that their condition does not deteriorate, and that they recover as much as possible. The type of work a first aider does depends on their training and the setting in which they are working.

  • Assessment of the Situation: First, assess the situation. This is the first thing any first aider must do, and it needs to be done quickly and calmly. Are you safe to enter the scene? How many people are injured? What are their injuries or conditions? Is the situation life-threatening? This rapid assessment helps determine what actions you can take next and how to prioritise care.
  • Give Immediate Care: First aiders can perform lifesaving first aid, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), bandaging and dressing wounds, stopping bleeding, and treating burns. They also know how to assist people experiencing heart attacks, strokes, or seizures.
  • Stabilise the Victim: Part of being a first aider is stabilising an injured or ill person until professional help arrives. This could involve stopping catastrophic bleeding, immobilising a broken bone, or treating shock by keeping the person warm and calm.
  • CPR and Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED): If someone is in cardiac arrest, first aiders receive training on how to perform CPR and use an AED to restore normal heart function, which can be lifesaving.
  • Treat Choking Incidents: In cases where a person is choking, first aiders are taught methods such as back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre) to remove the object from the airway and restore normal breathing. The first aider must act quickly and appropriately.
  • Clean and Dress Wounds: First aiders clean and dress wounds, apply bandages, and splint broken bones. They also immobilise and monitor the casualty for shock in severe injury cases.
  • Administer Basic Medications: Depending on their training, first aiders might administer medications, such as aspirin for a potential heart attack and epinephrine injections (EpiPen) for severe allergic reactions.
  • Keep Calm: First aiders provide emotional support as well as physical care, holding the injured person’s hand and reassuring them while waiting for an ambulance or hospital. Providing emotional support can be as integral to the healing process as physical care.
  • Contact Emergency Services: In many cases, first aiders work alongside paramedics or other emergency responders at the scene. They can provide details about the victim’s condition, the treatment they have already received, and any changes in their condition since treatment began.
  • Prevent Further Harm: One of the first tasks for a first aider is to ensure that the situation does not worsen. This may involve removing the casualty from danger, such as fire or traffic, or ensuring they are safely positioned to avoid further injury or deterioration of their condition.
  • Maintain and Stock First Aid Kits: First aiders are often required to keep first aid kits and equipment stocked and in good working order. This includes checking expiry dates on medications, ensuring bandages and dressings are available, and verifying that AEDs are functioning correctly.

Average First Aider Salary

Average First Aider Salary

Since the role of a first aider is often part of a broader role, such as in the workplace, at school, or in public services, it is difficult to separate the salaries of first aiders from their primary job, which is essential in its own right. However, for those for whom first aid is a significant part of their role, such as lifeguards or event first aiders, here is some information about the typical salary of a first aider:

  • Workplace First Aider: If first aid responsibilities are an addition to another role (e.g., office worker, construction worker), there usually isn’t any extra pay for being a first aider. Instead, there may be a small bonus or additional pay (sometimes called a ‘piecework rate’) for performing first aid duties when required.
  • Event First Aider: Event first aiders, who work part-time or freelance, are typically paid £10-15 per hour to provide first aid coverage at concerts, sporting events, festivals, and public gatherings.
  • Lifeguard: Salaries for lifeguards, who also provide aquatic first aid, range from £18,000 to £25,000 annually, depending on location and experience. Lifeguards in resorts and high-risk areas generally receive higher pay.
  • First Aid Instructor: First aid instructors can earn around £25,000 to £35,000 per year, depending on whether they work for an organisation or as a freelance trainer.
  • First Aider in Public Services: First aiders working as paramedics, firefighters, or police officers earn a salary based on their primary role. For example, paramedics in the UK earn between £25,000 and £35,000 annually, depending on their experience.

Essential Skills of a First Aider 

It is not just technical knowledge of first aid procedures that makes one an effective first aider but also the appropriate personal qualities necessary to effectively manage emergencies. The key skills of a first aider and attributes include:

  • First Aid Knowledge: First aiders must have a good understanding of essential lifesaving techniques, including CPR and how to treat wounds and burns. They should also be well-versed in procedures for managing medical emergencies such as heart attacks, strokes, and seizures.
  • Keeping Calm: Emergencies are often stressful and chaotic, so first aiders must remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations. This allows them to think clearly, make informed decisions, and reassure the injured person or bystanders.
  • Communication Skills: First aiders must communicate clearly with bystanders, emergency services, and the injured patient. They need to provide simple instructions and explain the situation effectively.
  • Empathy and Compassion: Providing emotional support is integral to being a first aider. First aiders must be empathetic and compassionate, offering reassurance to casualties and creating a safe environment for them to wait for professional help.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: First aiders should be able to quickly assess injuries and determine the best course of action within the scope of their training. They need to identify available resources and respond accordingly.
  • Physical Stamina: Depending on the nature of the emergency, first aiders may need physical stamina to perform CPR, lift or move an injured person, or provide care in challenging environments, such as on the side of a mountain or in a crowded place.
  • Attention to Detail: First aiders must pay close attention to detail to accurately assess injuries and apply appropriate first aid measures. Precise observation is crucial to ensure the injury is treated correctly and the person’s condition does not worsen.
  • Basic Medical Knowledge: While first aiders are not medical doctors, they need a basic understanding of anatomy, the circulatory system, and how the body responds to trauma. This knowledge helps them understand the impact of injuries and how to treat them effectively.
  • Teamwork: First aiders often work as part of a team, especially when paramedics or other first responders are on the scene. Good teamwork is essential for coordinating efforts and ensuring the casualty receives the best possible care.
  • Decision-Making: Quick and effective decision-making about the injured person’s condition and available resources is required in emergencies. Strong decision-making skills are essential for providing adequate care and a prompt response.

Tips For First Aider 

Tips For First Aider

Helpful Advice for Those Aiming to Build a Career as a First Aider:

  1. If you cannot manoeuvre yourself, ask someone else to do it.
  2. Don’t panic.
  3. Call 999.
  4. Find someone who can help.
  5. Start performing CPR.
  6. Continue to do something, anything.
  7. Don’t stop.
  8. CPR should be administered at all times, regardless of the circumstances.
  9. Keep CPR going until an ambulance arrives.
  • Keep Cool Under Pressure: The first step to being an effective first aider is to stay calm in emergencies. Practise mindfulness or other stress-reduction techniques to help you remain composed in times of stress.
  • Keep Your First Aid Kit Fully Stocked: If you’re a workplace first aider or are volunteering at an event, ensure that you keep a good supply of medical items and check expiry dates frequently.
  • Practise CPR Frequently: CPR is one of the most critical skills for first aiders. Practise CPR regularly to stay sharp and confident in your skills. Consider obtaining CPR certification once a year.
  • Refresh Your Training: First-aid techniques and protocols are updated periodically. Therefore, it is imperative to attend refresher courses to keep abreast of the latest practices. These courses will help you perfect your skills and gain additional knowledge.
  • Build Your Confidence: Confidence is crucial in first aid. The more practice you get, the more confident you will be in an emergency. Participate in training sessions, drills, or even ‘mock’ first-aid runs.
  • Know Your Training Limits: As a first aider, you are trained to provide primary first aid care (initial assistance). Be aware of when to call for professional medical care and only attempt actions you are specifically trained to perform.
  • Learn Your Legal Responsibilities: Some regions have laws that require individuals to help others in an emergency or offer additional legal protection for first aiders. Familiarise yourself with the laws in your area and learn about any ‘Good Samaritan’ laws to understand if you will be protected from liability when providing emergency care.

Requirements For First Aider 

You must usually complete a certified first aid training course to become a first aider. Additional certificates or training might be necessary to qualify for different first-aider roles. Here’s a quick guide to the most common certificates, training and qualifications required to become a first aider in the UK:

  • First Aid at Work Certification: This three-day course is designed for the workplace and qualifies you as a first aider. You will learn CPR, how to bandage a wound, how to deal with shock, and how to manage an unconscious casualty.
  • Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) Certification: This one-day course is intended for those who need to learn basic first aid skills for use at work. The course covers essential skills such as managing injuries and illnesses likely to occur in a low-risk working environment, including the safe use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
  • Paediatric First Aid Certification: This certification is required if you work with young children, such as a teacher or childcare provider. The course covers first aid protocols for infants and children, including techniques for dealing with choking, burns, and fractures, which differ from those used for adults.
  • Sports First Aid Certification: Designed for use in sports settings, this certification teaches how to provide first aid for common sports injuries (such as sprains, fractures, and concussions) as well as serious medical emergencies.
  • Mental Health First Aid Certification: Mental health first aiders are trained to assist individuals in crisis. The Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training course teaches participants to identify mental health problems and provide support.
  • Annual Refresher Training: First aiders are encouraged to take refresher training annually to stay current with their skills. While the full three-year First Aid at Work (FAW) certification remains valid, annual refresher courses help first-aiders stay confident and ready to act.
  • Physical and Emotional Readiness: A first aider must be fit to perform CPR, lift, carry, and assist injured persons, and be equipped to cope with injury and medical emergencies, which can be potentially distressing.

How to Become a First Aider

types of first aiders

You can learn to become a first aider and help others with injuries or emergencies. The steps below outline how to become a first aider.

  • Determine the Type of First Aid You Want to Perform: Depending on your environment, you may want to be trained in a specific area, such as workplace first aid, paediatric first aid, or sports first aid. Identify what type of first aider you want to be, as this will determine the training you need.
  • Pass a Certified First Aid Course: Enrol in a First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course offered by organisations such as St John Ambulance, the British Red Cross, or the UK Resuscitation Council.
  • Put Your New Skills to the Test: Practise what you’ve learned through drills, simulations, or volunteering. Join a community group or organisation that regularly offers first aid to gain experience in various real-life scenarios.
  • Stay Certified: First aid certificates are typically valid for three years. Ensure you attend a refresher course before your certificate expires. It is advisable to take an annual refresher course if possible.
  • Take a First Aid Kit with You: As a first aider, make sure you have a fully stocked kit at home, in the workplace, or at any events you attend. Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping basic supplies readily available.
  • Keep Up With the Latest First Aid: Stay informed about the latest methods as first aid technologies evolve. Attend workshops, read first aid publications, and engage in ongoing education.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Be a First Aider?

Being a first aider equips you to help someone who is ill or injured, and you might even save a life. It is a unique role that provides the necessary knowledge and skills to be a hero at work, at home, or in the community.

Is Being a First Aider a Good Career Choice for You?

If you handle pressure well, love helping others, and want to learn essential skills that could save lives, being a first aider could be a great fit for you. Not only is it a valuable asset in the workplace, but it is also a useful skill to have in everyday life.

First Aider Salaries

The pay for first aiders varies depending on their primary role. First aiders working at events or as part of a specialist team typically earn between £10 and £15 per hour. Lifeguards and other professionals in first-aid roles often earn between £18,000 and £25,000 annually.

Which Qualifications Can Help with a Career as a First Aider?

To qualify as a first aider in the UK, you must complete a First Aid at Work (FAW) or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course. To broaden your skills, you can also obtain additional qualifications, such as paediatric or sports first aid.

Do I Need to Be an Experienced First Aider to Get Started?

Not at all. Many first aiders start with no prior experience, and the training course will provide everything you need to become a competent first aider. With practice and regular refresher courses, you will build confidence over time.

First Aider Career Outlook

The need for qualified first aiders remains strong, particularly in workplaces, schools, and public spaces. Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of having trained first aiders on staff, making it a valuable qualification to have.

First Aider Hierarchy and Progressing Within the Role

First aiders can pursue additional certifications, such as becoming a First Aid Instructor or specialising in areas like mental health first aid or paediatric care. Some may transition to full-time emergency-response roles, becoming paramedics or emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

First Aider Exit Options and Opportunities

Experienced first aiders may move into more advanced medical or safety positions, such as paramedics, health and safety officers, or members of emergency response teams. Others may choose to become instructors, teaching life-saving skills to others.

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