This is a resource for providing first aid to common ailments seen at camp. This Is not to be taken as medical advice. If ever in doubt, please escalate to a medical professional or call 911.
Learning to recognize a serious head injury and give basic First-Aid can save someone’s life. For a moderate to severe head injury, CALL 911 RIGHT AWAY.
Get medical help right away if the person:
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Becomes very sleepy
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Behaves abnormally
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Develops a severe headache or stiff neck
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Has pupils (the dark central part of the eye) of unequal sizes
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Is unable to move an arm or leg
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Loses consciousness, even briefly
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Vomits more than once
Then take the following steps:
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Check the person’s airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.
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If the person’s breathing and heart rate are normal but the person is unconscious, treat as if there is a spinal injury. Stabilize the head and neck by placing your hands on both sides of the person’s head. Keep the head in line with the spine and prevent movement. Wait for medical help.
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Stop any bleeding by firmly pressing a clean cloth on the wound. If the injury is serious, be careful not to move the person’s head. If blood soaks through the cloth, do not remove it. Place another cloth over the first one.
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If you suspect a skull fracture, do not apply direct pressure to the bleeding site, and do not remove any debris from the wound. Cover the wound with sterile gauze dressing.
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If the person is vomiting, to prevent choking, roll the person’s head, neck, and body as one unit onto their side. This still protects the spine, which you must always assume is injured in the case of a head injury. Children often vomit once after a head injury. This may not be a problem, but call a doctor for further guidance.
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Apply ice packs to swollen areas.
Follow these precautions:
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Do NOT wash a head wound that is deep or bleeding a lot.
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Do NOT remove any object sticking out of a wound.
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Do NOT move the person unless absolutely necessary.
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Do NOT shake the person if he or she seems dazed.
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Do NOT remove a helmet if you suspect a serious head injury.
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Do NOT pick up a fallen child with any sign of head injury.
A serious head injury that involves bleeding or brain damage must be treated in a hospital.
For a mild head injury, no treatment may be needed. However, watch for symptoms of a head injury, which can show up later.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call 911 or local emergency number right away if:
- There is severe head or face bleeding.
- The person is confused, tired, or unconscious.
- The person stops breathing.
- You suspect a serious head or neck injury, or the person develops any signs or symptoms of a serious head injury.
Source: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000028.htm
It is essential to provide a written copy of this information to the Parent (either via email or a paper copy).
Notice of Head Injury
Today during camp your child sustained a head injury. Please observe your child and seek medical help if needed. Below is a list of suggested warning signs to seek medical help; however you should use your own best judgment for the health of your child.
Get medical help right away if your child experiences the following:
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Becomes very sleepy
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Behaves abnormally
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Develops a severe headache or stiff neck
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Has pupils (the dark central part of the eye) of unequal sizes
> Please record the injury in the AIW Injury Log Form when you have a moment <