4 min read

Fundamental Principles of First Aid

David Janitzek ✓

Diets Premium Expert • 23.03.2026

✓

Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian: This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.

Diets Premium Expert David Janitzek

min read 4 min

Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 23.03.2026

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Key Takeaways

Undoubtedly, every individual has been in a situation where the life of themselves or another person was threatened. How should one proceed in such cases to effectively carry out a rescue operation and save someone's life?

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What does the term first aid signify – detailed explanation

According to the Act of 8 September 2006 on the State Medical Rescue Service, first aid refers to a series of actions taken by an individual present at the scene to rescue a person experiencing an acute health threat, potentially utilizing available medical and pharmaceutical supplies. The same legislation also defines acute health risk as a condition where sudden or imminent symptoms of deterioration may lead to severe bodily harm or death, necessitating immediate emergency intervention. Polish law (State Medical Rescue Service Act, Penal Code) mandates that a witness to an incident notify emergency services and provide first aid to the injured party. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is conducted following the ABC protocol.

How to properly administer first aid

We present a road accident simulation applying the correct procedure. Imagine we are witnesses to an incident and must provide immediate first aid. First, we ensure the victim and all present are in a safe location. Then, we approach the injured person and assess if they respond to our actions (gently moving their arm and asking what happened). If there is no response and the individual is not breathing or breathing irregularly, we immediately contact emergency services. It's essential to remember that in cases of uncertainty, the dispatcher is obligated to provide necessary instructions for further steps. After alerting the emergency responders, we proceed with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the ABC scheme outlined below.

Step-by-step cardiopulmonary resuscitation - ABC technique

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation adheres to the ABC sequence. A (eng. Airway) – ensuring airway patency by removing foreign objects from the mouth and proper head positioning. B (eng. Breathing) – assessing respiration using three senses („hear, see, feel“). C (eng. Circulation) – detecting bleeding and performing external chest compressions. The protocol was revised in 2005 to initiate chest compressions before rescue breaths.