What must first aid include to be considered effective?

First aid is defined as the immediate care provided to a person suffering from a sudden illness or injury. To be considered effective, first aid must include an initial assessment and stabilization of the casualty. This process involves quickly evaluating the individual's condition to identify any life-threatening injuries or issues, such as breathing difficulties or severe bleeding, and then taking appropriate actions to stabilize them until professional medical help can arrive.

Stabilization may involve performing CPR, controlling bleeding, positioning the casualty safely, or addressing any other urgent medical needs. An effective first aid response is crucial because it can significantly enhance the chances of recovery for the injured or ill person, preventing deterioration of their condition prior to receiving full medical treatment.

While other options may represent important components of medical care, they do not directly align with the primary goals of first aid. Full medical exams, transportation of the casualty, and referrals to specialists are typically actions taken after initial first aid has been administered. First aid focuses on immediate actions aimed at preserving life and preventing further harm, making the initial assessment and stabilization paramount in any first aid scenario.