Hotel Reception

Introduction

First aid is the aid given in an emergency until medical aid can be obtained.  Many people actually endanger the lives of casualties through ignorance of the correct procedures.  Basically it is the task of the first aid person to prevent a casualty from becoming worse before he receives medical attention.

Every hotel should have a number of first aid boxes, and one of these will be kept in the reception area, nearby should be a basic first aid booklet to act as a reminder for correct application of bandages, splints, etc.  There should also be a list of persons on the staff who hold a first aid qualification (with internal extension numbers), as well as external numbers for local doctors, opticians and dentists, and the nearest hospital dealing with casualties.

The initial action to be taken by the first aider is to give confidence to the casualty.  She or he will do this by being calm, talking and listening to the casualty and reassuring the person.  She must always be gentle and careful in handling and move the injured person as little as possible.  It is essential that the first aider protects the casualty from the cold with blankets but does not apply extra heat (such as hot water bottles) as this will draw blood from vital organs to the surface of the body.  Any open wounds should be covered with sterile dressings.

Therefore in summary, the receptionist should:

• Keep calm
• Reassure the patient
• Move the casualty as little as possible
• Keep warm with blankets
• Cover wounds with sterile dressings

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