What is the definition of first aid?

The definition of first aid is best described as emergency care given to a sick or injured person. This encompasses the immediate measures taken to preserve life, alleviate suffering, and prevent further injury or complications before professional medical assistance can be obtained. First aid is crucial in many scenarios, such as accidents, injuries, or sudden illnesses, where prompt action can significantly impact the outcome for the patient.

Professional medical treatment provided by a doctor refers to a different context where a certified healthcare professional addresses health issues, often requiring advanced skills, training, and equipment beyond basic first aid capabilities. The immediate response to a natural disaster focuses on large-scale events impacting communities, which may involve first aid equipment and trained personnel but is not the definition of first aid itself. Supportive care provided in a hospital setting typically involves ongoing treatment and management of a patient’s condition, far removed from the initial emergency intervention that characterizes first aid.