OHS practices - First aid

COWS

Determine a casualty's level of consciousness via a gentle touching and loud talking. Do not shake the casualty.

Casualty examination for first aid follows a plan which is known by the acronym 'COWS'.

This is used to remind first aid providers of some simple steps that will help to determine a casualty's ability to respond. These steps are:

• Can you hear me?
• Open your eyes
• What's your name?
• Squeeze my hand

If the casualty is conscious and they express no pain, observe their behaviour for any distress, unusual position or posture and any body-swelling.

Where there is more than one casualty, always give priority to the unconscious casualty.

If unconscious perform 'SRABC':

• Safety - yourself, bystanders and casualty
• Response - does the casualty respond to your voice and touch? Call 000
• Airways - should be open and clear
• Breathing - look, listen, and feel for breathing
• Circulation - signs of life, breathing, coughing and movement
• Severe bleeding - check for life-threatening bleeding.

Checking vital signs

If a person is unconscious, the first step is to check their mouth for any item blocking the airway. These items could include their tongue, food or vomit. If blockages are found, gently roll the person onto their side, into the recovery position.

Clear any blockages using your fingers, then check for breathing. If no blockages are found, roll the person onto their back and check for breathing.

Listen for the sound of the breath, look for the movements of the chest or feel for the breath on your cheek.