Page 9 - Cadet ReviewAutumn/Winter 2020

FIRST AID
SAVES LIVES By SI Fiona McCallion
In Yorkshire (N&W) ACF, all of our members (both Adult Volunteers and cadets) receive training in first aid, and how to manage an incident. This valuable life skill is one of those things that you hope you'll never have to use. When an incident does occur, however, there have been numerous occasions when members of the public have been grateful for the presence of one of our members. In the most recent
case, the actions of the County STEM Officer, and outgoing Acomb Detachment Commander, 22-year-old 2Lt Scott Baker are likely to have saved a man's life...
In the early hours of 16th August, Scott was socialising with friends in the centre of Hull when they came across a male sitting in a pool of blood outside a local pub, surrounded by bar staff and security. Scott identified himself as a first aider and took charge of the incident.
He quickly noted that the casualty had a major bleed on the wrist. Scott confirmed with the security staff that an ambulance had been called. He then set about stemming the bleed (using dressings from the venue’s first aid kit to apply pressure) and elevating the joint, paying close attention to the position and movements of the casualty’s free hand. Once the bleed seemed under control, Scott quickly confirmed that the casualty was not still in possession of any bladed article that could cause further injury to anyone on the scene. He also checked that there were no other significant injuries visible on the casualty.
Very quickly, the man started showing symptoms of shock then suddenly became unresponsive. Scott moved him into an improvised recovery position, keeping the injured joint elevated above the heart. He also directed bystanders to elevate the casualty’s legs, and directed the security staff to update the ambulance service with the new developments.
Scott continued to monitor the casualty as the man drifted in and out of consciousness. Blood began to seep through the first dressing, prompting Scott to apply a second on top.
A passing police patrol stopped to assist but were happy that the scene was well under control and there was no potential weapon present.
They remained at the scene helping to disperse onlookers.
When the paramedics arrived, Scott gave them a full verbal handover using the SAMPLE mnemonic, with information gained through conversation and observation. He then assisted the ambulance crew with getting the casualty
His ACF First Aid training has probably saved this man's life
onto the stretcher whilst maintaining pressure on the wound.
2Lt Baker's actions quickly earned the praise of his Officer Commanding, Major Rory Romani, who is extremely proud of the actions of his young officer: "2Lt Baker epitomises the dedication of our volunteers to helping those in need. His ACF First Aid training has probably saved this man's life and has definitely provided an inspiration
for others to follow in Lt Baker's footsteps." The Commandant has now nominated Scott for an ACFA award.
CADET REVIEW AUTUMN/WINTER 2020 9