Essential First Aid Protocols and Medical Mnemonics

1. What is PEARL?

PEARL stands for Pupils Equal And Reactive to Light.

2. What is DOTS?

DOTS stands for Deformities, Open wounds, Tenderness, and Swelling.

3. What is SAMPLE?

SAMPLE stands for:

• S: Signs & symptoms
• A: Allergies
• M: Medication
• P: Previous relevant medical history
• L: Last oral intake
• E: Event history

4. What is CSM?

CSM stands for Circulation, Sensation, and Movement.

5. What is AVPU?

AVPU stands for Alert, Voice, Pain, and Unresponsive.

6. What is PPE?

PPE stands for Personal Protection Equipment.

7. What is the most commonly used PPE?

The most commonly used PPE includes:

• Head protection
• Foot protection
• Eye/face protection
• Hearing protection
• Hand protection
• Respiratory protection
• High-visibility clothing

8. Comparing Signs and Symptoms

In medicine, a symptom is generally subjective, while a sign is objective. For example, a light headache is a symptom because it can only be detected by the patient. High blood sugar is a sign because it can be measured and observed.

9. CPR Compression to Breath Ratio

For CPR, the ratio of chest compressions to breaths is 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths.

10. Position for Treating Shock

The position for treating shock is to have the victim lying flat on his or her back with the legs elevated approximately 8-12 inches.

17. Thumb Position When Applying a Sling

When treating the thumb or arm with a sling, you should apply an elevation sling.

18. Position for Splinting an Injured Knee

Knee injuries require splints that extend from the hip down to the ankle. These splints are applied to the back of the leg and buttock.

19. Typical Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack

1. Chest pain
2. Upper body discomfort

20. Typical Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

• Sudden paralysis of a leg, arm, or one side of the face
• Sudden trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden vision problems, such as blurred or double vision

21. Obtaining Consent Before Giving Care

Before giving care, the first aider must have the victim's consent (permission).

22. Reducing Dislocations in the Wild

In the wild, traction and external rotation may be used to reduce a dislocated shoulder.

23. Triage: Who to Care for First?

If you have multiple victims, you should first care for the person in critical condition.

24. Describing the Three Degrees of Burns

1. First-degree: Burns affect only the epidermis; skin is red but not blistered.
2. Second-degree: Burns with blisters and skin that is white to red and moist.
3. Third-degree: Burns affect all skin layers, leaving the areas dry, leathery, and charred.