Caring for someone during a sudden health emergency at home often feels overwhelming and stressful. Quick, informed actions can make a big difference in how confidently you respond and in the safety of those you care about. This guide highlights seven key skills that help you respond effectively to common injuries, giving you the tools you need to protect your family in unexpected situations. With practical advice and clear steps, you will feel more prepared to handle emergencies, ease your anxiety, and support your loved ones when they need you most.

You will find straightforward explanations, step-by-step instructions, and quick tips to practice. Whether guiding a tween through minor scrapes or responding to a more serious medical event, these clear steps help you stay prepared.

Skill 1: Performing CPR

When breathing or pulse stops, you restart blood flow to the brain and vital organs with CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Follow these numbered steps to perform hands-only CPR on adults or older children:

  1. Check responsiveness by tapping shoulders and calling their name loudly.
  2. Call emergency services or ask someone nearby to do so.
  3. Position your hands: place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, then lock fingers of the other hand on top.
  4. Push hard and fast, compressing at least two inches deep at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute (think of the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”).
  5. Continue until help arrives or the person shows signs of life.

Practicing on a manikin at a certified class boosts your muscle memory. Refresh your skills every six months so you feel confident in a real situation.

Skill 2: Clearing a Choking Airway

Choking quickly blocks airflow. Recognize common choking signs: clutching at the throat or inability to speak. Use these bullet points to clear a foreign object:

  • Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
  • Make a fist and place it above the navel, thumb side against the abdomen.
  • Grasp the fist with your other hand and give quick, upward thrusts.
  • Repeat until the object dislodges or the person becomes unresponsive.

If the person loses consciousness, call for help and start CPR modifications. Tilt the head and look in the mouth before each set of compressions, removing visible objects only.

Skill 3: Controlling Bleeding

Heavy blood loss can cause shock, so stopping bleeding becomes one of the most critical tasks. First, apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or gauze pad right over the wound. Maintain firm pressure without lifting frequently; ask a helper to wrap a bandage snugly over the dressing.

If bleeding soaks through, add more layers without removing the original pad. In rare cases of uncontrolled arterial bleeding—pulsating or bright red flow—consider a tourniquet placed several inches above the wound. Record the time of application and seek emergency care immediately.

Skill 4: Treating Burns

Burns range from first-degree (redness) to third-degree (white or charred). Cool a first- or second-degree burn under running water for at least 10 minutes to reduce pain and swelling. Gently pat dry and cover with a sterile, non-stick dressing.

A third-degree burn requires professional attention immediately. Do not apply ice, creams, or adhesive bandages. Cover loosely with a clean cloth and call medical services. Keep the person warm while waiting for help to prevent shock.

Skill 5: Stabilizing Fractures

A broken bone often shows deformity, swelling, or inability to move the limb. Do not try to realign the bone. Instead, improvise a splint using sticks, magazines, or rulers padded with cloth. Secure it above and below the injury with clean bandages or strips of fabric.

Keep the injured area still and support it when moving the person. Treat for shock by laying them down, elevating feet if no spinal injury is suspected, and covering with a light blanket. Seek X-ray confirmation as soon as possible.

Skill 6: Recognizing and Responding to Allergic Reactions

Anaphylaxis can strike within minutes of exposure to peanuts, bee stings, or certain medications. Watch for hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, and sudden dizziness. If someone carries an epinephrine auto-injector, help them administer it into the thigh muscle.

After using the injector, call emergency services even if symptoms improve. Position the person on their side in case they vomit. Monitor breathing and pulse until paramedics arrive. For milder reactions, an over-the-counter antihistamine may ease itching and redness, but never delay an epinephrine dose when in doubt.

Skill 7: Managing Shock

Shock happens when organs and tissues do not receive enough blood flow. Signs include pale, clammy skin, rapid breathing, and lightheadedness. Lay the person flat and elevate their legs about 12 inches unless a head, neck, or leg injury prevents it.

Keep them warm with a blanket and stay calm, offering reassuring words. Do not give food or drink. Seek emergency care immediately, since untreated shock can cause permanent damage.

Practicing these seven skills at home or in safety classes keeps you prepared. Regular refreshers ensure you remain confident and quick in emergencies.