First aid is the helping behaviours and initial care provided for an acute illness or injury. First aid can be initiated by anyone in any situation.
A first aider is someone trained in first aid who should:
• Recognise, assess, and prioritise the need for first aid
• Provide care by using appropriate competencies
• Recognise their own limitations, and seek additional care when needed.
The goals of first aid are to preserve life, alleviate suffering, prevent further illness or injury, and promote recovery.