Assessing Injury in 10 Seconds: A Quick Guide to Save Lives in Emergency Situations

Accidents can happen anytime — at home, on the road, or at work. Knowing how to assess injuries within the first 10 seconds can save lives. Dr. Maya Tandon, an anesthesiology expert and former member of the National Road Safety Council, shares a simple four-step method: SAIT — Safe Zone, Assess, Inform, and Treat.

Step-by-Step Guide: SAIT

1. Safe Zone (S):

Before approaching an accident victim, ensure the area is safe for you and the injured person. Avoid rushing in without checking for traffic, fire, or electrical hazards. If on a road, stand in a way that makes you visible to others and avoid further accidents.

2. Assess (A):

Quickly observe the victim’s condition. Take 10 seconds to look for signs of injury:

• Are they conscious?

• Are they breathing normally?

• Do they respond to voice or touch?

Most critical injuries affect the head or spine, so avoid unnecessary movement. Look for bleeding, irregular breathing, or abnormal posture.

3. Inform (I):

Call emergency services immediately. Clearly inform them of the location, type of accident, and condition of the injured. This helps in faster medical response.

4. Treat (T):

If the person is conscious, talk to them to keep them calm. Do not give them food or water.

• If unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position.

• If they are not breathing, start CPR if you are trained.

• For bleeding, apply pressure to the wound using a clean cloth.

Did You Know?

To stay alive, the human body depends on three vital organs:

• Brain: Works 24/7 and requires continuous oxygen.

• Heart: Pumps blood, and even a few minutes without oxygen can cause severe damage.

• Lungs: Supply oxygen, and any blockage can be life-threatening.

Conclusion:

Every second counts during an emergency. The SAIT method equips you to act confidently and potentially save a life. Always be alert, act fast, and remember—safety first.