Psychological First Aid for First Responders

First responders are often the first to console victims or witnesses on a scene. EMS providers must always be prepared to meet victims in shock or distress as a result of fear, uncertainty and intense emotion. Here are a few psychological first aid tips to help properly manage the emotions of distressed individuals and continue to promote safety on site:

Promote Safety

·       Help people meet basic needs for food and shelter, and obtain emergency medical attention

·       Provide repeated, simple and accurate information on how to get these basic needs

Promote Calm:

·       Listen to people who wish to share their stories and emotions and remember there is no right or wrong way to feel

·       Be friendly and compassionate even if people are being difficult

·       Offer accurate information about the disaster or trauma and the relief efforts underway to help victims understand the situation

Promote Connectedness:

·       Help people contact friends and loved ones

·       Keep families together; keep children with parents or other close relatives whenever possible

To read more about first responder psychological first aid, read the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services brochure, “Psychological First Aid for First Responders, Tips for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers.” store.samhsa.gov/shin/content/NMH05.../NMH05-0210.pdf

*Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services brochure, “Psychological First Aid for First Responders, Tips for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers.” store.samhsa.gov/shin/content/NMH05.../NMH05-0210.pdf