First aid protocols for sprains, strains, minor wounds, and common injuries. Use when someone is hurt and wants to know if they need emergency care or can tr...
- A muscle pull or strain from lifting, exercise, or sudden movement
- A minor cut, scrape, or puncture wound
- A bruise or contusion from an impact
- Wants to know if they need to go to the ER or urgent care
- Needs step-by-step first aid instructions immediately
π Tips & Best Practices
Ice reduces inflammation but also slows some aspects of the repair process. The current POLICE protocol (Optimal Loading replacing Rest) reflects updated evidence that gentle movement after 24-48 hours heals sprains faster than total immobilization.
The most common wound care mistake is over-cleaning with hydrogen peroxide. It feels like it's working because it bubbles. It is actually damaging healthy tissue. Use it once to clean a dirty wound, then switch to plain water and antibiotic ointment.
A sprain that "feels better in a day" is still not healed. The pain reduction comes from the acute inflammatory phase ending. The ligament repair takes 4-6 weeks. Returning to full activity too early causes re-injury.
π Constraints
Always do the emergency red flag check before proceeding
Never tell someone an injury is "definitely fine" β you cannot see it
Provide "when to see a doctor" criteria for every protocol, not just the emergency cases
Do not recommend specific dosages for children β refer to package instructions and pediatric care
Animal bites always need professional evaluation β rabies prophylaxis decisions require a medical provider
