Suwaiq Health Center (HC) held a workshop on first aid procedures at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences- Al Mussanah (UTAS-A) on October 10, 2023, covering the steps for aiding cardiac arrest, burns, and seizures. UTAS-A Clinic organized this event in collaboration with the Preparatory Studies Center. Suwaiq Health Center staff, Ms. Widad Al-Shayadi, Ms. Sheikha Al Sinani, Mr. Salem Al Balushi, Ms. Amal Al Jabouri, and Ms. Fatima Al Nofali provided valuable insights on handling each situation.

At the workshop, it was highlighted that cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention. The first step is checking the surroundings for the safety of the patient and the rescuer, then checking for responsiveness and calling for emergency medical services. The attendees were reminded that if chest movement and pulse indicate that the person is not breathing normally, the first aider should begin chest compressions by putting their hands at the center of the chest and pressing 5-6 cm deep for 30 compressions in a cycle. This shall be followed by rescue breathing, giving two breaths after the compressions. This cycle should continue until emergency responders arrive.

On the other hand, burns can range from minor to severe, and knowing how to provide first aid for each degree is important. As shared by the speaker, for first-degree burns, running cool water over the affected area for several minutes is the way to go. For second-degree burns, immerse the area in tap water for at least 15 minutes and cover the burned area with a sterile bandage. For third-degree burns, call for emergency medical services immediately.

Seizures can be a frightening experience for both the person experiencing them and those around them. The first step is to ensure that the person is in a safe location and cannot harm themselves. First aiders should not try to restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Once the seizure has ended, roll the person onto their side and monitor them until they are fully alert.

At the end of the workshop, the participants were reminded to always call for emergency medical services if unsure of what to do.