What this glossary is
This website is a first aid terminology glossary. It exists to help people understand the words, phrases, and concepts commonly used in first aid, emergency care, and safety environments.
It works like a dictionary for first aid language — a place to look up terms you hear in training, workplaces, or discussions about emergencies and find clear, easy-to-understand explanations.
Why this glossary exists
First aid training and emergency response often use terminology that can sound technical or unfamiliar. Many words are second nature to professionals but confusing for everyday people.
You might hear a term during a course, in a workplace safety talk, or in a conversation about an emergency and think:
“I’ve heard that before… but what does it actually mean?”
This glossary helps bridge that gap by explaining terms in plain language, making first aid vocabulary easier to understand and use.
Who it’s for
This glossary is designed for:
- People completing first aid training
- Workers in health and safety environments
- Parents, carers, and community members
- Students
- Anyone wanting to better understand first aid terminology
It supports learning and awareness by helping people make sense of the language used in first aid settings.
What it covers
The glossary includes terminology related to:
- First aid and emergency care
- Injuries and medical conditions
- Assessment and observation terms
- Equipment and supplies
- Common acronyms and classifications
Definitions may also include general first aid information to help explain how a term relates to real-world situations.
Australian context
Terminology in this glossary reflects usage common in Australian first aid and emergency response settings. Language and concepts are informed by standards and practices commonly associated with first aid training and safety guidance in Australia, including references to recognised frameworks such as ANZCOR guidelines and Australian codes of practice.
What this glossary does not replace
This glossary is a reference resource. It does not replace:
- Professional medical care
- Emergency services
- Accredited first aid training
It is designed to improve understanding of terminology, not to act as a substitute for professional advice or formal instruction.
How it works
Terms are organised alphabetically and may also appear in grouped categories to help readers find related concepts more easily. Each entry focuses on explaining what a term means and how it is used in a first aid context.
Our aim
The aim of this glossary is simple:
To make first aid language more accessible, so people feel more confident understanding the words used in emergency care and safety discussions.