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Spinal Injury – when to move and when not to!
Latest update for First Aid Management of Suspected Spinal Injury from ANZCOR (all below information has been obtained from ANZCOR website) 
The Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR) makes the following recommendations in managing those who have, or may have, a spinal injury [all Good Practice Statements]:
1. ANZCOR recommends rescuers perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for those who are unresponsive and not breathing normally (ANZCOR Guideline 8). This should continue until ambulance or rescue personnel take over.
2. ANZCOR recommends that manual inline restriction of motion of the spine be undertaken wherever practicable for possible spinal injury.
3. ANZCOR recommends that a soft cervical collar only be used to indicate that there is a possibility of spinal injury, and this provides less restriction of motion than manual inline restriction of motion.
4. ANZCOR recommends that semi-rigid collars be used if manual spinal motion restriction is impossible, and only for extrication/transport for the shortest time possible by providers trained and equipped to use these devices. Appropriate circumstances may include extrication from a mountain.
5. ANZCOR recommends that long back boards (spinal boards, including proprietary scoops) only be used to move persons provided that this does not significantly slow moving the person and rescuer from danger and only for the time to move the person
6. ANZCOR notes that head blocks that restrict motion of the head more than the body and frequently increase motion of the cervical spine when the body moves, with the risk of shearing force on the spine, should not be used.
7. ANZCOR recommends that first aid providers do not rely on spinal motion restriction devices to prevent significant motion of the cervical spine, particularly in the unconscious person. Manual inline restriction of motion from a neutral position should be used wherever possible.
In a Nut Shell:
Suspected spinal injuries of the neck, particularly if the person is unconscious, pose a dilemma for the rescuer because correct principles of airway management often cause some motion of the cervical spine; however, maintenance of an open airway takes precedence over restriction of motion of the cervical spine, and manual inline restriction of motion minimises this movement.1
Recognize a Spinal Injury:
Symptoms of spinal injury include:
· pain in the injured region
· tingling, numbness in the limbs and area below the injury
· weakness or inability to move the limbs (paralysis)
· nausea
· headache or dizziness
· altered or absent skin sensation.
Signs of spinal injury include:
· head or neck in an abnormal position
· signs of an associated head injury
· altered conscious state
· breathing difficulties
· cold and clammy skin
· change in muscle tone, either flaccid or stiff
· loss of function in limbs
· loss of bladder or bowel control
· priapism (erection in males).
Management
The Conscious Person
Tell the person to remain still, but do not physically restrain if uncooperative. Those with significant spinal pain will likely have muscle spasm, which splints their injury. Keep the person comfortable until help arrives.
If it is necessary to move the person from danger (e.g. out of the water, off a road), care must be taken to support the injured area and minimise motion of the spine in any direction.
The Unconscious Person
Airway management takes precedence over any suspected spinal injury. It is acceptable to gently move the head into a neutral position to obtain a clear airway. If the person is breathing but remains unconscious, ANZCOR suggests that they be placed in the recovery position (refer to ANZCOR Guideline 3) .
The person should be handled gently with no twisting. Aim to maintain spinal alignment of the head and neck with the torso, both during the turn and afterwards (Spinal Roll). In persons needing airway opening, use manoeuvres which are least likely to result in motion of the cervical spine. Jaw thrust and chin lift should be tried before head tilt.
✨ A New Era for RTOs: What the 2025 Standards Mean for Student Enrolments
Australia’s vocational education sector is stepping into a new chapter with the introduction of the 2025 Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), effective from 1 July 2025. These reforms aim to elevate the quality, integrity, and flexibility of training delivery across the country.
🔍 Key Changes Impacting Enrolments
The new standards place a strong emphasis on student support and informed decision-making—starting well before enrolment:
- Pre-Enrolment Assessments: RTOs must now assess prospective students’ language, literacy, numeracy (LLN) and digital literacy before enrolment. This ensures learners are matched with training that suits their current skill levels.
- Transparent Information: Students must be provided with clear, accurate details about the training product, fees, support services, and obligations—empowering them to make informed choices.
- Tailored Advice: Based on pre-enrolment assessments, RTOs are required to advise students on whether the chosen course aligns with their learning needs and career goals.
🎯 Why It Matters
These changes are designed to reduce dropout rates, improve student outcomes, and foster trust in the VET system. Whether you’re a student, trainer, or provider, the 2025 Standards signal a shift toward quality over quantity—where every enrolment is backed by genuine readiness and support.
Shock! What is it?
Managing a Casualty in Shock Following Injury
Shock, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body is not getting enough blood flow, depriving vital organs of oxygen. It often results from trauma, significant blood loss, burns, severe infections, or allergic reactions. Recognizing and treating shock rapidly can mean the difference between life and death. When a casualty develops shock after an injury, prompt and effective intervention is essential. This guide provides a thorough approach to recognizing, treating, and supporting a casualty who is experiencing shock.
What is Shock?
Shock is a critical failure of the circulatory system, leading to inadequate delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. It is not simply a psychological response or emotional upset—it is a physical crisis that requires immediate action. There are several types of shock, including hypovolemic (due to blood loss), cardiogenic (due to heart problems), septic (due to severe infection), and anaphylactic (due to severe allergic reaction). Injuries most commonly cause hypovolemic (from blood loss or fluid loss) and sometimes neurogenic shock (from spinal injury).
Recognizing Shock
Early recognition is crucial. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of survival. Look for these key signs and symptoms:
- Pale, cold, and clammy skin
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Thirst
- Confusion, anxiety, or restlessness
- Dizziness or faintness
- Low blood pressure (if able to measure)
- Blue tinge around lips and fingernails (cyanosis)
As shock progresses, the casualty may become unconscious. If shock is not treated, it can lead to organ failure and death.
Principles of Treating Shock
When you suspect someone is in shock, your priorities are:
- Call for emergency medical help immediately.
- Stop any ongoing loss of blood or fluids.
- Ensure an open airway and support breathing. Recovery position if unconscious and breathing normally.
- Help maintain body temperature by using an emergency blanket from the first aid kit if available.
- Reassure and monitor the casualty.
Step-by-Step Treatment
1. Call for Emergency Help
Time is of the essence. As soon as you suspect shock, dial emergency services. Give them clear information about the casualty’s condition, location, and details of the injury.
2. Lay the Casualty Down
Help the casualty to lie flat on their back fi conscious and make comfortable.
3. Control Bleeding and Treat Injuries
If the casualty is bleeding:
- Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth, bandage, or even your hand if necessary.
- Do not remove any embedded objects—apply pressure around them.
4. Support Breathing and Airway
Make sure the airway is open:
- If they are unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position: on their side, with the mouth open and facing downward to allow fluids to drain.
- If necessary, clear the mouth of any obstructions.
5. Maintain Body Temperature
People in shock are very vulnerable to cold. Cover them with a blanket, coat, or any available covering to keep them warm, but avoid overheating. If outside, protect them from wind, rain, or snow. However, do not allow them to eat or drink, especially if surgery may be needed.
6. Monitor and Reassure
Stay with the casualty and observe their condition closely. Talk to them calmly and reassuringly, even if they seem confused or agitated. Be ready to perform CPR if they stop breathing and become unconscious.
7. Do Not Give Food or Drink
Do not give the casualty anything to eat or drink—even if they are thirsty. Food and fluids can complicate medical treatment, especially if surgery is required. If the casualty asks for water, moisten their lips with a damp cloth.
8. Loosen Tight Clothing
If safe and appropriate, loosen tight clothing to improve circulation and comfort.
9. Avoid Unnecessary Movement
Keep the casualty as still as possible. Excessive movement can worsen injuries or increase blood loss.
10. Keep Calm and Wait for Help
Remain calm to help the casualty to remain calm and provide reassurance. Calmly encourage the casualty to relax and breathe slowly. Stay alert for any changes in their condition.
Special Considerations
Spinal Injuries:
If you suspect a spinal injury, do not move the casualty’s head, neck, or back unless absolutely necessary for safety or to maintain an airway if unconscious and breathing. Do not elevate the legs. Call for professional help immediately.
Pregnancy:
For a pregnant casualty, avoid the shock position. Instead, place them on their left side to minimize pressure on major blood vessels.
What Not To Do
- Do not let the casualty get up or walk around.
- Do not give medication unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.
- Do not try to warm with a hot-water bottle or direct heat.
- Do not ignore any signs of worsening condition.
When to Perform CPR
If at any point the casualty becomes unconscious and stops breathing, begin CPR immediately and continue until help arrives. Attach a Defibrillator if available and follow the voice prompts.
Preventing Shock
While not always possible to prevent, quick recognition and treatment of injury, bleeding, or other causes can minimise the risk of shock developing. Educate yourself and others in basic first aid to be prepared for emergencies. It is always recommended to attend a First Aid Course under instruction of trained professionals to practice vital first aid skills.
Conclusion
Treating shock in an injured casualty is about rapid assessment, reassurance, and careful action. Your ability to stay calm, control bleeding, and keep the casualty warm can save a life. Remember, always seek professional medical help as soon as possible. First aid is not a substitute for proper medical care but is often the vital first step toward recovery.
The Best Free First Aid Apps to Download Today
When an emergency happens, every second counts. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out and about, having quick access to reliable first aid information can make all the difference. While formal first aid training is essential, free mobile apps can be great tools for refreshing your knowledge and guiding you through emergency situations.
Here’s a roundup of some of the top free first aid apps that you can download today:
🚑 1. Australian Red Cross – First Aid App
Available from: App Store & Google Play
Why we love it:
- Built for Australians, with content aligned to national guidelines
- Step-by-step first aid instructions for common emergencies
- Quick reference guides for CPR, burns, bleeding, and more
- Offline access – no internet required in an emergency
- Includes quizzes to test your knowledge
✅ Best for: General public, students, travellers
🏥 2. St John Ambulance First Aid App
Available from: App Store & Google Play
Why we love it:
- Trusted name in first aid for over 130 years
- Clear instructions for over 20 types of emergencies
- Clear voice prompts and visual guides
- Regularly updated to reflect best practice
- Covers adult, child, and infant emergencies
✅ Best for: Workplaces, parents, and first-time learners
📱 3. First Aid – IFRC (International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies)
Available from: App Store & Google Play
Why we love it:
- Ideal for international travel or multilingual households
- Covers emergency scenarios in multiple countries
- Multilingual support
- Emergency content tailored to different countries
- Videos, quizzes, and emergency checklists
- Includes preparedness tips for disasters and major incidents
✅ Best for: Travellers, multilingual users, or people moving between countries
🔔 4. Emergency+ App (Bonus: Not strictly first aid, but highly recommended)
Available from: App Store & Google Play
Why we love it:
- Developed by Australia’s Triple Zero Awareness Work Group
- Pinpoints your exact GPS location during 000 calls
- Helps you contact the right emergency service (Police, Fire, Ambulance, SES)
- No ads or unnecessary features—just help, fast
- Easy to use in high-stress situations
✅ Best for: Everyone in Australia—especially in regional/remote areas
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
These apps are completely free and take just minutes to download—but they could help you save a life. Remember, there’s no substitute for hands-on training. If you’re ready to build real confidence in a crisis, enrol in a nationally recognised First Aid and CPR course today.
First Aid training is fun!
How much fun do you have at your first aid courses? Does your trainer just read from a PowerPoint most of the time? Does your trainer use props for visual effects?
One of the most effective ways to learn first aid skills is by doing close to real life scenarios and have fun at the same time.
Learning by doing, often referred to as experiential learning, has several benefits, especially in a practical subject like first aid:
Enhanced Engagement: Hands-on training keeps participants more engaged and interested in learning the content.
Better Retention: Practical application helps reinforce the knowledge that is learnt, making it easier to remember and recall information in real-life situations.
Skill Development: Practicing skills with props and visual effects allows learners to gain confidence and proficiency, which is crucial in emergency situations.
Immediate Feedback: Participants can receive instant feedback from their instructors, allowing them to correct mistakes in real-time and improve their techniques.
Realism: The use of visual effects and props simulates real-life scenarios, preparing learners to respond effectively when faced with actual emergencies that may occur at the workplace or home.
Overall, incorporating these elements leads to a more effective and impactful learning experience in first aid training. It is also important that you have fun while you learn! I certainly do as the trainer for First Aid Action RTO31668!
Contact us now and let Luella train your staff and prepare them for emergencies. Read our 320 five star reviews to see what her clients think about her training.
Phone: 07) 3901 0599
Email: info@firstaidaction.qld.edu.au
The Versatility of the Triangular Bandage
Why is the Triangular Bandage the best item in the first aid kit?
The versatility of the triangular bandage lies in its ability to adapt to a wide range of situations. Its shape and size allow it to be folded, tied, or wrapped in various ways, making it suitable for addressing multiple types of injuries in first aid situations at home or work.
Uses of the Triangular Bandage in First Aid
The triangular bandage can be applied in numerous ways during emergencies. Below are some of its most common and practical uses:
1. Sling for Arm or Shoulder Injuries
One of the most well-known uses of the triangular bandage is as a sling to support an injured arm or shoulder. By folding or tying the bandage, you can create a secure sling that immobilizes the arm, alleviating pain and reducing the risk of further injury. This is particularly helpful for fractures, sprains, or dislocations.
2. Securing Splints
In cases where a limb needs to be immobilized using a splint, the triangular bandage can be used to tie the splint in place securely. Its strength and flexibility make it ideal for ensuring that the splint stays in position, providing stability and protection to the injured area.
3. Head and Scalp Injuries
For wounds or injuries to the head, the triangular bandage can be wrapped around the scalp to protect the affected area. This application is especially useful for controlling bleeding and preventing contamination of open wounds.
4. Bandaging Larger Wounds
When dealing with large wounds that require coverage, the triangular bandage can be used as a dressing. It provides adequate coverage and can be tied securely to keep the wound protected until professional medical help is available. It can also act as a thick pad to apply pressure to stop bleeding or folded into a donut ring to support impaled objects.
5. Tourniquet for Severe Bleeding
In critical situations where severe bleeding needs to be controlled, the triangular bandage can be folded and used as a makeshift tourniquet. While this should only be done as a last resort and with proper caution, it demonstrates the bandage’s adaptability in life-threatening scenarios.
6. Eye Injuries
The triangular bandage can be used to create an eye pad by folding it into a smaller shape. This pad can then be tied around the head to keep the injured eye covered and protected. It can also be used a donut bandage to cover an impalement in the eye.
7. Emergency Padding
In situations where additional padding is required, the triangular bandage can be folded into a compact shape and used to cushion injuries. This is particularly helpful when splints or other rigid objects need extra padding to avoid discomfort.
8. Securing Cold Packs
When treating swelling, the triangular bandage can be used to secure cold packs or compresses against the affected area. Its ability to hold these items in place ensures that they stay effective and properly positioned.
9. Temporary Binding or Restraints
Although less common, the triangular bandage can serve as a temporary restraint or binding tool in emergency situations where controlling movement is necessary for safety.
The Triangular Bandage in Remote Locations
One of the greatest advantages of the triangular bandage is its practicality in remote or outdoor environments. For hikers, campers, or adventure enthusiasts, this lightweight and compact tool can be a lifesaver. Its ability to function as a sling, splint tie, or wound cover makes it indispensable in settings where medical facilities might be far away.
Mates helping Mates with Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a life threatening medical emergency as it can lead to breathing stopping and death. Helping a person with their medication is essential and in a timely manner to increase their chances of survival.
Anaphylaxis is severe form of an allergic reaction where the airways swell and close, the blood pressure drops and shock sets in. People can be anaphylactic to many things such as food, plants, insects, chemicals and sometimes an unknown cause.
Signs and symptoms of Anaphylaxis may include:
* Sometimes it may start with an allergic reaction such as a rash, hives, itching or swelling in the face.
* Difficulty speaking
*Difficulty breathing
* throat swelling
* tongue swelling
*Signs of shock- pale, cool, clammy skin
* Dizziness, lightheadedness, collapse
* Floppiness in children
In in a workplace, it is important to know how to assist a person with their life saving adrenaline pen – the two most common being EpiPen and Anapen.
The video is showing a first aider learning how to help his work colleague with an EpiPen.
It is always recommended to attend a first aid class to learn this important skill under the guidance of a professional instructor.
Luella is a professional instructor for First Aid Action RTO 31668 in Brisbane Australia.
Website:
www.firstaidaction.qld.edu.au
First Aid Verification of Competency Service
Ensuring Workplace Safety
In any workplace, the ability to respond effectively to emergencies, whether minor or extreme, is paramount. This capacity hinges largely on the competence of designated first aiders. However, maintaining first aid proficiency can be challenging, particularly given the recommendation in Australia that first aid skills be updated only every three years. This raises crucial questions: will your first aiders remember what they learned in their initial training? Who is responsible for ensuring that your workplace is staffed with first aiders who can act decisively and knowledgeably in an emergency?
Challenges in Maintaining First Aid Competency
First aid is a vital skill, yet like any skill, it requires regular practice to retain proficiency. Over time, without reinforcement and practical application, the knowledge and techniques learned can fade. This is particularly concerning in a workplace setting where the stakes are high; the inability to effectively administer first aid can lead to disastrous outcomes for the casualty involved.
It is not uncommon for employees trained in first aid to feel underconfident or even panic when faced with a real-life emergency if they have not had opportunities to practice their skills regularly. This is where the First Aid Verification of Competency Service comes into play, offering a practical solution to ensure that the first aiders in your workplace remain competent and prepared.
Introducing Luella’s Verification Service
Luella, an experienced first aid trainer with over 17 years of expertise, now offers a unique service designed to verify and refresh the first aid skills of your workplace first aiders. Her service is tailored to address the gap between initial training and ongoing competency, providing a means to ensure that your first aiders are ready to handle any emergency situation.
Service Components
Luella’s First Aid Verification of Competency Service includes:
- 2 Hour Session: This intensive session encompasses a knowledge test to determine the current level of first aid knowledge among your staff. Additionally, it includes 2-3 workplace-based scenarios using first aid equipment and props to refresh practical skills. This hands-on practice is crucial for reinforcing the techniques and procedures that may have lapsed.
- Theory and Skills Refresh: Throughout the session, Luella addresses any areas where your staff feel uncertain or have forgotten critical aspects of first aid. This personalized approach ensures that all participants leave with a renewed sense of confidence and capability.
- Performance Report: After the session, Luella provides a comprehensive report on each first aider’s performance. This report highlights areas of competence and identifies individuals who may need additional refresher training to meet the required standards.
Cost and Logistics
The cost for this service is $300, with an additional $50 travel fee (travel fee may vary if outside our service area – please enquire). GST is not included in these fees. Considering the potential consequences of having undertrained first aiders, this investment is a small price to pay for ensuring workplace safety and preparedness.
The Importance of Regular Verification
Regular verification and skill refreshment are essential to maintaining high standards of first aid competency within any organization. By opting for Luella’s service, you are taking proactive steps to safeguard your employees and create a safer work environment. The benefits are clear:
- Enhanced Confidence: Verified training boosts the confidence of first aiders, ensuring they feel prepared to handle emergencies effectively.
- Increased Preparedness: Regular practice and testing keep first aiders’ skills sharp, reducing the likelihood of panic or hesitation during an actual emergency.
- Compliance: Ensuring your first aiders remain competent helps meet workplace health and safety regulations, protecting your organization from potential liabilities.
Conclusion
Investing in the First Aid Verification of Competency (VOC) Service is a commitment to workplace safety and the well-being of your employees. By regularly verifying and refreshing the skills of your first aiders, you ensure that your workplace is prepared to respond to emergencies swiftly and effectively, no matter how minor or extreme. Luella’s expertise and tailored approach offer a practical solution to maintaining first aid competence, providing peace of mind and security for your entire organization.
Don’t leave your workplace’s emergency preparedness to chance. Ensure your first aiders are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to act decisively and confidently. Contact Luella today to schedule a verification session and take the first step towards a safer, more prepared workplace.
Call 07) 3901 0599
Email: info@firstaidaction.com.au
Severe Bleeding – tourniquet or pressure?
When to Use a Tourniquet
According to the Australian Resuscitation Council Guidelines, a tourniquet should be used in situations where there is severe bleeding that is life-threatening and cannot be controlled by direct pressure. Time is a critical factor to prevent blood loss that can lead to potential fatality. Stopping a life threatening bleed will take a priority over airway and breathing interventions. Scenarios where a tourniquet is appropriate include:
- Extremity injuries with significant blood loss such as an amputation, partial amputation, open fractures, shark attack, propeller cuts or similar.
- Instances where direct pressure does not suffice to manage the bleeding on a limb
- Situations where the location or nature of the injury makes it difficult to apply direct pressure on the limb.
- Inadequate resources or time to control bleeding through other means such as applying pressure to the wound.
How to Use a Tourniquet for a Life-Threatening Bleed
Using a tourniquet effectively can be vital in controlling severe bleeding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Identify the site of the severe bleeding.
- Place the tourniquet approximately 5-10 cm above the bleeding site, avoiding joints.
- Tighten the tourniquet until the bleeding stops, ensuring it is secure but not causing further injury.
- Cover the exposed wound with sterile dressings if available but do not cover the tourniquet.
- Note the time of application, as prolonged use can cause damage to the tissues.
- Seek the ambulance immediately after applying the tourniquet.
Alternative Tourniquet Options
If a commercially manufactured tourniquet is not available, various items can be used as improvised tourniquets. These include:
- Belts
- Strips of cloth or clothing
- Scarves or bandanas
- Ropes or cords
When using an improvised tourniquet, ensure that the material used is strong enough to withstand the pressure needed to stop the bleeding and that it can be secured tightly. Follow the same guidelines for placement and tightening as for a standard tourniquet.
The appropriate and timely use of a tourniquet can save lives in critical situations. Always prioritize seeking professional medical assistance promptly and follow the guidelines to ensure safety and effectiveness. Follow the ANZCOR guidelines of DRSABCD if the casualty becomes unconscious and not breathing.