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

Assessment Terms

Unconscious

Unconscious means a person is not awake and cannot respond. Learn how this term relates to unresponsive, recovery position, and CPR in first aid.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

First Aid Procedures

Recovery Position

Recovery position means placing an unresponsive person who is breathing normally onto their side to help protect the airway. Learn when to use it and when CPR is needed instead.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

First Aid Procedures

Rescue Breaths

Rescue breaths means giving breaths to help move air into someone’s lungs. Learn how rescue breaths fit with CPR and when full resuscitation is needed.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

First Aid Procedures

Chest Compressions

Chest compressions are the main pumping action used during CPR. Learn when to start chest compressions, why they matter, and how they fit into the early emergency response.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Body Systems

Breathing

Breathing means moving air in and out of the lungs. Learn what normal and abnormal breathing can look like in first aid and what to do next.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Body Systems

Airway

Airway means the path air takes into and out of the lungs. Learn what the airway is, why it matters in first aid, and which airway pages to use next.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 9, 2026

Medical Conditions

Shock

In first aid, shock means the body is not getting enough blood flow to vital organs. Learn the signs, common causes, and what to do first.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 7, 2026

First Aid Procedures, Injuries

Severe Bleeding

Severe bleeding is a serious emergency where a large amount of blood quickly leaves the body, and knowing how to respond fast can make all the difference in saving a life. Whether from a deep cut or a bad injury, recognizing the signs and acting quickly is crucial.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 7, 2026

Injuries

Fracture

A fracture is a break or crack in a bone caused by a strong impact, and recognizing its signs—like pain, swelling, or deformity—can help you respond quickly and safely. Understanding what a fracture is and how to act can make all the difference in providing effective first aid.

First Aid Glossary Editorial Team
February 7, 2026

Medical Conditions

Heart Attack

Heart attack means blocked blood flow is damaging the heart muscle. Learn the warning signs, how it differs from cardiac arrest, and what first aid to give while waiting for an ambulance.