All our certificates are Nationally Recognised Qualifications
What is RICER in first aid?
RICER is an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and Referral. It is a first aid technique that can be used for soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains.
Rest: The injured area should be rested to prevent further damage.
Ice: Ice helps to reduce swelling and pain.
Compression: A compression bandage can help to reduce swelling.
Elevation: The injured area should be elevated above the level of the heart to reduce swelling.
Referral: If the injury is severe, or if pain and swelling persist, you should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider.
When it comes to soft tissue injuries, RICER in first aid is an ideal treatment option. By following the RICER protocol, you can effectively treat a wide range of soft tissue injuries. Here’s a closer look at each element of the RICER protocol:
Rest: It’s important to rest the injured area to allow it to heal properly. Avoid activities that aggravate the injury and put unnecessary stress on the area.
Ice: Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce pain and swelling. Be sure to wrap the ice in a towel or cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage or compression wrap to help reduce swelling. Apply the bandage snugly but not so tight that it cuts off circulation.
Elevation: Keeping the injured area elevated above heart level will also help reduce swelling. Prop up the area on a pillow or stack of blankets when possible.
Referral: If you’re still experiencing pain or swelling after following the RICER protocol for a few days, it’s time to seek professional medical help. Your doctor can prescribe additional treatments, such as physical therapy, to help speed up your recovery.
There are many reasons why RICER works for soft tissue injuries.
First, RICER helps to reduce inflammation. This is important because inflammation can cause a lot of damage to the tissues around the injury.
Second, RICER helps to reduce pain. This is important because pain can interfere with the healing process.
Third, RICER helps to promote healing. This is important because it helps the injured tissue to repair itself more quickly.
Fourth, RICER helps to prevent further injury. This is important because it can help to keep the injury from getting worse.
Finally, RICER helps to improve range of motion. This is important because it can help you to regain full use of the injured area more quickly.
First aid training is crucial for individuals in a wide range of settings, from workplaces to educational institutions and more. However, two common first aid
Having up-to-date first aid skills and knowledge is crucial for responding quickly and effectively in medical emergencies. However, first aid protocols and recommended practices evolve
In the hustle and bustle of the modern workplace, safety can sometimes be overlooked, especially in ‘office’-type jobs where little physical labour or dangerous machinery
Being prepared in a crisis is not just about swift response but also effective action. First aid is an essential skill that can be learned
As you’re no doubt already aware, Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes. While the likelihood of encountering one might be
In life, emergencies can strike without warning. It’s in those critical moments that knowing the right steps and having the right training can make a
