“Save a life� Contents
Whats in your medicine cabinet? Latest News Courses
October 2016
Medicines and the Law
As First Aiders we are told we cannot administer medicines, and generally as a fact that is quite true. With the exception of whether the medication is life saving for example, we can assist to administer a) b) c)
Epipen (or adrenaline pen) in the case of Anapylactic shock Assist with Asthma pump in the event the casualty has a need Offer an aspirin tablet to someone suffering from a suspected heart attack.
However it does seem a bit silly and an insult to peoples intelligence if they are simply told they cannot administer medication of any other kind, just because. It is also not in the best interests of the person in need who may now have to go elsewhere to find an aspirin for a headache! So what is the law on medicines and what do all these different types do? The Law There are strict laws on the licensing and administration of medicines - and for good reason. The first thing we need to understand is that there are three classifications of drugs licenses; General Sales List medicines (commonly referred to as ‘over the counter’), Pharmacy (which can be sold to you by a pharmacist but does not require a prescription) and Prescription Only Medicines. This article is only concerned with ‘over the counter’ medicines which we can obtain and, if appropriate, use to treat ourselves or others. Doing it right Always follow the instructions in the packaging to ensure you are giving the right medicine AND at the RIGHT DOSE Analgesics There are alsorts of medication of varying strengths available for pain relief over the counter. Aspirin Very popular mild strength, also known for its anti blood clotting properties which is why its given to heart attack victims and the only reason its recommended by HSE to keep in the First Aid kit
Paracetamol Another common one, available over the counter for pennies these days. Its also got the ability to lower temperature. Which is why its also found in Calpol. Its also an anti inflammatory so good for musculoskeletal . Its stronger version, Paramol is often found in Chemists. Ibuprofen Most common anti inflammatory analgesic, can be taken with paracetamol for increased Codeine Available in low doses combined with paracetamol or Ibuprofen making it the strongest over the counter pain relief, but its also addictive. Antihistamines Brought out to assist against allergies, like hay fever as well as rashes Piriton is the most famous brand name oral antihistamine with the active ingredient, chlorphenamine , but look out for cheaper unbranded alternatives. Digestive System For general heart burn there are loads of remedies, Milk of Magnesia, Gaviscon (both liquid and tablet). Settlers, Tums in tablet form. If these don’t work renitadine (Zantac) is available over the counter. Or esomeprazole (Nexium) is available at the pharmacy. Nexium is more effective and lasts longer but is considerably more expensive. Bucospan is available for Irritable Bowl Syndrome but also for urinary and gastro intestinal cramps. Constipation A number of drugs can assist with this problem. bisacodyl (Ducolax) can help move things along. If it’s the opposite and you have the runs, this could be due to the body trying to get rid of a bacteria you have consumed, so try just water for 24 hours to flush It from the system. Source:s: http://www.realfirstaid.co.uk/medicinecabinet
News Some of you might be confused in recent months with the slow but gradual change of name from AWA First Aid to AWA Training. Well, your not mad, we are SLOWLY moving over but for now our First Aid site will remain live, but the operation is changing. Why the change? Well, we so not just offer First Aid any longer but Food Hygiene and Safegarding for Children courses have been added. In fact its been a busy month. Since our last newsletter we have Created an E-Learning First Aid Refreshers course Received accreditation to deliver Safeguarding Awareness in children by the Association of First Aid Qualifications We are also trialling offering small Paedatric First Aid courses run from the home. So loads going on, but what does all this mean? E-Learning -First Aid Refeshers While we agree that First Aid in its entirety should not be delivered online and of course appreciate the concerns of someone administering First Aid to be doing so of the back of such a course. We also believe that it is equally a concern that once a course is over, that might be the final training they receive for 3 years. How much is forgotten? That is why our delegates are given access to the course for no extra charge. For a limited period of time.
Level 2 Safeguarding in children The latest new course we have added to our portfolio, this is for Nursery workers and teachers with a view to raising awareness of safeguarding. Safeguarding is a very real concern these days and is about looking out for and protecting the welfare and best interests of children. Child abuse comes in various forms from Physical Mental Nutitional Sexual It is important for all people concerned to look out for signs and symptoms of a child being abused. In this new course we look at previous child abuse cases, the legislation that was brought out to help combat it, and what to do if you suspect abuse. Especially for people who mind children, its important to keep an eye out for signs of systematic abuse. This course covers these areas and more. Please get in touch if you’re interested in booking this.
First Aid for Parents These courses remain very popular, we were pleased to be training 7 people at our Hullabaloo course in Northampton September gone. There is no course running this October due to the school holidays but the final one of the year will be November 25th so hope to see you there Can’t wait that long? Don’t worry, we’re running another at the Olney Football Club Next month we check out burns