Public Access Trauma (PAcT) Kits Explained
Public Access Trauma Kits, commonly known as PAcT kits, or sometimes referred to as bleed kits are an essential combination of specialist first aid items designed to help treat casualties suffering from life-threatening injuries. These kits are strategically placed in public areas to provide immediate medical assistance before professional help arrives. Often they are in a clearly identifiable box that displays the acronym PAcT kit.
What is the Purpose of PAcT Kits?
The primary purpose of PAcT kits is to provide quick and effective first aid to individuals who have sustained severe injuries in public spaces. These kits are crucial in situations where every second counts, such as accidents, natural disasters, or violent incidents. By having these kits readily available, bystanders can take immediate action to assist the injured person until emergency services arrive. Some PAcT kits contain items that the casualty can use on themselves, if there is no one close by to help, for example a tourniquet to control severe bleeding.
What Do PAcT Kits Contain?
PAcT kits are equipped with a range of medical supplies and tools to address different types of traumatic injuries. There are no current UK regulations covering what a PAcT kit should contain, however Protect UK a ground breaking joint partnership, bringing together the knowledge of policing, the private sector and public sector to counter terrorism, has published guidelines on the contents and accessibility of these kits.
Some common contents of these kits include:
- Tourniquets: Used to stop severe bleeding from limbs.
- Bandages and Dressings: To cover and protect wounds.
- Chest Seals: For treating chest injuries and preventing lung collapse.
- Airway Management Devices: To ensure proper breathing.
- Gloves and Face Shields: For infection control.
- Shears and Tools: For cutting clothing and accessing the injury site.
How Do PAcT Kits Help Treat Casualties?
When a person is injured in a public setting, bystanders can quickly locate the nearest PAcT kit and use its contents to provide immediate care. For example, if someone is bleeding heavily from a wound, a tourniquet from the kit can be applied to stop the bleeding. By following the instructions provided in the kit and utilising the supplies effectively, bystanders can significantly improve the chances of survival for the injured individual.
It is important to note that PAcT kits are not a substitute for professional medical care. Once the injured person has been stabilized using the kit, it is crucial to dial 999 to seek emergency medical assistance as soon as possible. The contents of PAcT kits are meant to bridge the gap between the time of injury and the arrival of professional help.
Conclusion
Public Access Trauma PAct Kits play a vital role in providing immediate first aid to individuals facing life-threatening injuries in public spaces. By understanding the purpose and contents of these kits, bystanders can be better prepared to respond effectively in emergency situations. Remember, being equipped with knowledge and access to PAcT kits can make a difference in saving lives when every second counts.
