What are the aims in giving first aid?

The primary aims in giving first aid are to:

*Preserve life:* The top priority in first aid is to ensure the person is alive and breathing, and to maintain their condition until medical help can arrive. This involves checking for consciousness, breathing, and pulse, and providing life-saving CPR if necessary.

*Prevent further injury or harm:* First aid aims to minimize further injury or complications to the person. This includes controlling bleeding, dressing wounds, immobilizing fractures or dislocations, and using appropriate measures to prevent infection or exposure to harmful substances.

*Relieve pain and provide comfort:* First aid also focuses on reducing the person's pain and discomfort. This may involve providing pain medication (if appropriate), applying cold or heat to the affected area, and offering reassurance and support.

*Promote recovery and healing:* Proper first aid can help promote the person's recovery and healing process by preventing infections and complications, and providing basic care and support during the initial phase of an illness or injury.

*Facilitate medical transport:* If necessary, first aid aims to prepare the person for safe and efficient transport to a medical facility, ensuring that they are properly immobilized and accompanied by necessary information for further treatment.

It's important to note that first aid is not a substitute for professional medical care. The primary goal is to provide immediate assistance and support until medical professionals can take over the care of the injured or ill person. Therefore, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is crucial in any first aid situation.