Introduction
Human first aid has only relatively recently been a part of the RCVS Veterinary Nursing Syllabus. Although we have entered our profession in order to care for animals, we are equally responsible for the wellbeing of the humans that accompany their pets to our surgery.

Many owners are horrified at the sight of blood, especially if it originates from an animal. Multiply this ten-fold if it is blood coming from their OWN animal! Subsequently it is not unusual for the surgery staff to have to deal with shocked or fainting clients. Every responsible business should be prepared to train their staff to deal with medical emergencies, be they those involving customers or visitors to the premises or those concerning colleagues.

The learning objectives of this chapter are:

• To gain a basic knowledge of the legislation relevant to first aid situations.
• To be familiar with the contents of the first aid box, and be able to use them efficiently in a first aid situation.
• To understand the objectives of first aid and be able to competently provide emergency treatment.
• To recognise occupational hazards that may require first aid.

This chapter contains basic advice on first aid for use in an emergency. It is not a substitute for effective training.