First Aid Glossary Editorial Team

The First Aid Glossary Editorial Team produces plain-English explanations of first aid and emergency terminology for Australian readers. Articles are reviewed against recognised Australian guidance, including ANZCOR, Healthdirect Australia and Triple Zero, and are updated as guidance changes.

Joined: January 28, 2026
Articles: 246

Medical Conditions

Respiratory Arrest

Respiratory arrest means breathing has stopped. Learn what it means in first aid, what to do immediately, and when CPR is needed.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Medical Conditions

Ineffective Breathing

Ineffective breathing means a person is breathing, but not well enough to get enough air. Learn the warning signs, what to do first, and when to call 000.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Medical Conditions

Apnoea

Apnoea means breathing stops for a period of time. Learn what the term means and when to go to the main respiratory arrest first aid page.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Medical Conditions

Agonal Breathing

Agonal breathing is not normal breathing. Learn what it looks like, why it is an emergency, and when to start CPR.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Body Systems, First Aid Procedures, Medical Conditions

Airway Obstruction

Airway obstruction happens when something blocks the flow of air to the lungs, making it hard to breathe and risking serious harm. Recognizing the signs early and acting quickly can save a life by clearing the airway and restoring proper breathing.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

First Aid Procedures

Airway Management

Airway management means keeping a person’s airway open so air can move in and out. Learn when airway management matters in first aid and which practical pages to use next.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Acronyms

ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation)

ABC means airway, breathing, and circulation. Learn what the ABC approach means in first aid and how it relates to primary survey and DRSABCD.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

First Aid Procedures

Resuscitation

Resuscitation means emergency actions used to help someone whose breathing or heartbeat has stopped. Learn what the term means and where to find the main practical pages.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Equipment & Supplies

Wound Dressing

Wound dressing is a simple yet essential step in first aid that helps protect cuts and scrapes from dirt and bacteria, speeding up healing and reducing pain. By keeping the injury clean and covered, a wound dressing acts as a shield, giving your skin the best chance to recover safely.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Injuries

Wound

A wound is more than just a skin injury—it’s your body’s shield being broken, letting germs in and triggering the healing process. Knowing how to care for a wound properly is key to preventing infection and helping the body recover quickly.