What is the primary goal of first aid?

The primary goal of first aid is to prevent further injury, infection, and loss of life. In emergency situations, the immediate focus is on stabilizing the individual and ensuring their safety. By addressing any potential threats to life, such as controlling bleeding or maintaining an open airway, first aid helps to mitigate the severity of a situation. This foundational approach is crucial because the actions taken during the first moments after an injury can significantly impact the overall outcome for the affected person.

While making a person comfortable until help arrives is important, it is secondary to the core objective of preventing further harm. Similarly, providing long-term medical assistance and thoroughly assessing all potential injuries may be necessary steps in emergency care but fall outside the immediate scope of first aid, which is primarily focused on stabilization and damage control.