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Workplace Medical Emergency Procedures

Medical emergencies in the workplace are seldom expected and very rarely properly planned for. Should there be a medical emergency where you work, your level of preparedness could mean the difference between life and death. Do you know what to do in the case of a medical emergency? Learning the basics will help you respond quickly and calmly in the face of chaos and could save a life.

  1. Stay Calm

    • The worst thing you can do in any emergency medical situation is panic. For the sake of the victim and your colleagues, try to remain calm, cool and collected. You will be more effective and efficient this way.

    Assess the Situation

    • Quickly assess the scope of the injuries and collect information. If an injured person is conscious, ask her to tell you if anything hurts and observe where on her body she may be physically injured. Do not move an injured person, especially if he is reporting pain, unless there is imminent danger.

    Call 911

    • If a person is badly injured, call 911. If there is any doubt as to whether emergency services are needed, it is better to be safe than sorry. Stay calm and provide your address, location in the building, phone number, name and any information you have gathered about the injuries.

    Report the Situation to the Appropriate Authority

    • Depending on the size of your workplace, you may need to notify management about the situation.

    Administer First Aid and CPR

    • If required, CPR or first aid should be performed by a person who is trained in administration. If there is no skilled person, wait for emergency professionals. Do not administer medical attention or medications. Be careful not to come in contact with blood, vomit or other bodily fluids.

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