What to Do in a Medical Emergency Before Help Arrives

Your Actions Can Save a Life

Medical emergencies can happen suddenly—at home, on the road, or at work. Whether it’s a heart attack, seizure, accident, or allergic reaction, your response in the first few minutes can make a critical difference. This guide will help you stay calm, act wisely, and provide effective care while waiting for professional help.

Step-by-Step: What to Do Before Help Arrives

1. Ensure Safety
Your safety comes first. Before rushing to help, scan the scene for dangers such as fire, traffic, electricity, or hazardous substances. Never put yourself at risk.

2. Assess the Situation Quickly

• Is the person conscious or unconscious?
• Are they breathing normally?
• Is there visible bleeding or injury?
• What caused the emergency?

This assessment helps you determine what action is needed and what to tell emergency responders.

3. Call Emergency Services Immediately
In Kenya, dial 999, 911, or 112.
Stay calm and provide:

• Your location (including landmarks or road names)
• The nature of the emergency
• The number of people injured
• The condition of the casualty

Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.

4. Provide Basic First Aid If Trained and Safe
Depending on the emergency:

• Unconscious but breathing:
  Turn the person onto their side into the recovery position. This keeps the airway clear and prevents choking.
• Unconscious and not breathing:
  Begin CPR immediately—start chest compressions. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100–120 compressions per minute).
• Choking:
  Perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) or back blows.
• Bleeding:
  Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to stop bleeding.
• Burns:
  Cool the burn with clean running water for 10–20 minutes. Do not apply creams, butter, or ice.
• Seizures:
  Protect the person from injury by moving objects away. Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Time the seizure and call for help if it lasts more than 5 minutes.

5. Stay with the Person and Monitor Them
Remain close and observe any changes in breathing, consciousness, or condition. Offer reassurance and keep them calm.

6. Gather Useful Information
If possible, collect:

• Any medications the person is taking
• Medical history (diabetes, asthma, allergies)
• Contact information for a relative or caregiver
  This can be helpful for paramedics when they arrive.

7. Comfort and Protect the Casualty
Keep the person warm and covered. Speak gently and avoid crowding. If you’re in a public place, ask others to clear the area for privacy and calm.

What Not to Do

• Do not give food or drink unless you’re sure it’s safe and the person is fully conscious.
• Do not move someone with suspected broken bones or spinal injuries unless they’re in danger.
• Do not leave the person alone unless absolutely necessary.

Why Immediate Action Matters

Most deaths and serious complications in emergencies occur within the first few minutes. Your ability to act quickly and appropriately can:

• Improve survival chances
• Reduce pain and complications
• Prevent further harm
• Help emergency responders provide better care on arrival

Conclusion

Medical emergencies are unpredictable, but your calm presence, quick thinking, and basic first aid skills can protect lives and provide comfort in moments of fear. Preparation is key—learn first aid, keep emergency numbers visible, and maintain a stocked first aid kit.