A volunteer collapses during fieldwork. How would you handle a medical emergency with limited resources?

1 Assess Quickly

When a volunteer collapses, your first step is to assess their condition rapidly but calmly. Check for responsiveness by gently shaking their shoulders and asking if they're okay. If there's no response, survey the surroundings for safety before proceeding. Look for signs of breathing and a pulse. Remember, in a crisis, every second counts, so this initial assessment should be quick and efficient. If they are not breathing or you cannot find a pulse, begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately if you are trained to do so.

2 Call for Help

After the initial assessment, calling for help is crucial. If you're in a remote location, use a whistle, scream, or send someone to get help if possible. If you have a phone or radio, use it to contact emergency services or your base camp. Provide clear information about your location and the volunteer's condition. It's vital to stay as calm as possible to ensure that the message is conveyed accurately and help is dispatched promptly.

3 CPR Knowledge

If the volunteer is unresponsive and not breathing, performing CPR can be life-saving. Place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest and your other hand on top. Press down hard and fast, allowing the chest to rise fully between compressions. If you're trained, give rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. Continue until help arrives or the person starts to breathe. If you're not trained in CPR, attempt hands-only CPR with chest compressions until professional help arrives.

4 Stop Bleeding

If the volunteer has visible bleeding, take steps to control it immediately. Use a clean cloth or bandage to apply direct pressure to the wound. If the bleeding is severe and from a limb, consider applying a tourniquet above the wound, but only if you have been trained to do so. Keep applying pressure until emergency services arrive or the bleeding stops. Avoid removing any embedded objects as this could cause more damage.

5 Prevent Shock

Shock is a life-threatening condition that can occur with serious injury or illness. Lay the volunteer down with their feet elevated about 12 inches if there's no suspicion of spinal injury. Keep them warm and comfortable with blankets or coats. Don't give them anything to eat or drink, as it could cause complications. Monitor their breathing and pulse regularly, and reassure them help is on the way.

6 Stay With Them

Until help arrives, it's essential to stay with the collapsed volunteer. Continue to monitor their vital signs and comfort them. If they regain consciousness, don't allow them to stand or move around as they could fall or faint again. Your presence can provide reassurance and prevent further harm while waiting for professional medical assistance to arrive.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?