Nowadays, the ability to provide first aid is becoming a key skill not only for medical services, but also for people working in various areas of social life, including teachers.

The First Aid Teacher Training Plan includes a number of key elements designed to ensure that teachers are prepared to respond effectively to health emergencies.

Teachers learn to recognize situations that may require first aid. In particular, instructors must know how to act in the following situations: cardiac arrest, accidents during educational activities or sudden illnesses of students.

The course also includes training in reliable situation assessment, which allows teachers to make the right decisions regarding providing help.

Teachers learn basic first aid procedures, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, providing aid for burns and hemorrhages.

Training in basic first aid procedures includes:

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation for adults, children and infants.
• Giving help in case of choking.
• Stopping external bleeding.
• First aid in case of hypothermia.
• Treatment of burns, sprains, fractures, hemorrhages or loss of consciousness.
• Appropriate response in the event of other health threats.
• Use of a defibrillator.

Teachers have the opportunity to practice acquired skills on phantoms and mannequins. Simulation exercises help consolidate procedures and increase confidence in providing first aid. The course also includes learning how to use available aids, such as a first aid kit or a defibrillator.

The examination after completion of first aid training for teachers is a key element designed to assess their ability to effectively provide aid in emergency situations. The exam covers theoretical and practical knowledge. After successful completion, they receive a certificate confirming that they have completed the first aid course for teachers.

In Poland, the regulations regarding first aid training are specified in the Regulation of the Minister of National Education of December 21, 2012 on detailed qualifications required from teachers (Journal of Laws, item 237). These regulations apply to teachers of all types of educational institutions. According to this regulation, teachers are obliged to undergo regular first aid training.

This provision states that the obligation to train in first aid applies to all teachers, and their participation in such courses is one of the elements of professional development. The periodicity of training may be determined by the relevant authorities, and the first aid courses themselves are organized by authorized educational institutions, local government units or other institutions conducting this type of training. In practice, this means that teachers must regularly attend first aid courses to maintain their skills at an appropriate level. This acts as an assurance that teachers are prepared to respond to emergencies and are able to effectively assist their students in the event of a health emergency.

Teachers are subject to first aid obligations for several important reasons:

• Teachers are responsible for the safety of students at school. In case of emergencies or situations requiring immediate medical attention, the ability to provide first aid may decide the life and health of a student.
• Teachers often witness everyday emergencies, such as accidents on the playground or students suddenly falling ill. Having first aid skills allows you to react immediately, which can be crucial before professional medical help arrives.
• In many countries, including Poland, there are legal provisions requiring teachers to undergo regular first aid training. In Poland, according to the regulation of the Minister of National Education, teachers are obliged to complete a first aid course every five years.
• Having qualified teachers who can administer first aid contributes to overall school safety. This may also be an important element in the perception of the educational institution by the local community.
• Quick and appropriate help in emergency situations can minimize health complications and speed up the recovery process. Teachers with the appropriate skills can more effectively support students until specialist medical support arrives.

A first aid course is not only a legal requirement, but above all an important tool to increase the safety of students in schools. Thanks to this knowledge, teachers become ready to act quickly and effectively in emergency situations, which has a positive impact on the atmosphere of safety among students and school staff.

Source:https://www.bhp-center.com.pl/kurs-pierszej-pomocy-dla-nauczycieli-wszystko-co-musisz-wiedziec/

Supported by Norway through Norway Grants 2014-2021, in the frame of the Programme “Social Dialogue – Decent Work”.