Until the Ambulance Arrives: What to Do in an Emergency

In an accident or sudden illness, the minutes passing after calling 112 or Nova Ambulans are critical. Simple and correct steps in these "golden minutes" increase the chance of survival [1]Source: American Heart Association (AHA) — American Heart Association[3]Source: European Resuscitation Council (ERC) — European Resuscitation Council. Here is what you need to do before the ambulance:

First Steps While Waiting for Ambulance

Ensure Safety First

Ensuring the safety of both yourself and the patient should be your first priority.

• Scene Safety: If it is a traffic accident, place warning signs (reflector etc.) to prevent other accidents. If there is a danger like fire or gas leak, carefully move the patient to a safe area.
• Personal Protection: Protect yourself from blood or other body fluids by wearing disposable gloves if possible.

Assess the Patient's Condition (ABC)

• A (Airway): If the patient is unconscious, check if the airway is open. Clean if there is a foreign object in their mouth. Open the airway by gently tilting their head back [2]Source: AHA CPR & First Aid — American Heart Association[3]Source: European Resuscitation Council (ERC) — European Resuscitation Council.
• B (Breathing): Check if the patient is breathing with the "Look-Listen-Feel" method for 10 seconds [3]Source: European Resuscitation Council (ERC) — European Resuscitation Council. Look for chest movement, listen for breath sounds, and try to feel their breath on your cheek. If there is no breathing, start basic life support (CPR) [1]Source: American Heart Association (AHA) — American Heart Association[2]Source: AHA CPR & First Aid — American Heart Association.
• C (Circulation): Check for serious bleeding. If there is active bleeding, press directly and firmly on the wound with a clean cloth or piece of clothing [2]Source: AHA CPR & First Aid — American Heart Association. Try to keep the bleeding area above heart level.