FIRST AID POLICY

FIRST AID POLICY

Policy Reviewed: September 2024

Next Review Due: September 2025

1. Policy Statement

CEDEC International Schools is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all pupils, staff, and visitors. This policy outlines procedures to be followed when a child sustains an injury during the school day, particularly during group activities, in accordance with best practice from relevant Nigerian laws and educational regulations to ensure a safe and responsive learning environment.

2. Purpose

This policy outlines the procedures and responsibilities in the event of an injury or medical incident involving any member of the school community. It ensures timely, effective, and consistent responses in line with health and safety standards.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all students, staff, visitors, and contractors within the school premises or participating in school-related activities.

4. Legal and Statutory Framework

This policy is in compliance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 and relevant Nigerian school health standards. This policy draws on Nigerian legislation and policy guidelines including the:

·       The National Policy on Safety, Security and Violence-Free Schools by the Federal Ministry of Education

·       Child Rights Act of 2003.

·       The Occupational Health and Safety Act in Nigeria

·       Lagos State Ministry of Health – School Health Programme

5. Designated First Aiders

The school must have at least 1 trained First Aider across all floors of the school. All staff must be trained in Basic First Aid Procedure. However, all kindergarten staff must be trained in Pediatric First Aid. Additionally, the school health officers and nurses are located in each school.

6. Roles and Responsibilities

·       The Organisational Development Manager ensures the annual review of this policy, and

·       The Head of School ensures the implementation and monitors incident logs. He/She also ensures the overall responsibility for the day-to-day management of school supervision/routines, and ensures regulatory compliance.

·       The School Nurse/Health Officer responds promptly and appropriately to injuries, and coordinates first aid training. This includes administering first aid, recording incidents and maintaining first aid kits. Also, The School Nurse/Health Officer is the staff representative to the campus School Management.

·       All staff members are expected to report and respond to injuries according to the protocols set out in this document.

·       The class teacher is responsible for classroom supervision and teachers on duty are directly responsible for the supervision of pupils at break time, resumption and close of school hours.

·       Parents are responsible for providing up-to-date medical information about their child.

7. Immediate Injury Response Protocol

When a child sustains an injury,

·       the staff member must stop the activity immediately and secure the area.

·       Staff at hand should comfort the child and reassure them and ensure they are not in danger

·       The School Nurse/Health Worker should be called to assess the injury and carry out any first aid procedures that are necessary.

·       If the injury appears serious or life-threatening, emergency services should be contacted. In this case, the child should not be moved unless there is immediate danger.

·       The injured child must be comforted and supervised while awaiting further care, and other pupils should be removed from the scene to reduce distress.

·       Once the child is more settled contact the parent/carer as soon as possible to inform them of the accident and if necessary to ask them to return to care for their child/meet us at the hospital if the situation requires it.

·       Staff must ensure that the child’s privacy and dignity are maintained at all times.

·       Minor bumps and injuries may be notified to parents and carers by means of a phone call from the Head of School, a note, and the “Injury Report Form” sent home with the child at the end of the day.

·       When a child bumps their head, we always notify parents and carers. For very minor

bumps this may be in the form of a standard letter sent home with the child at the end

of the day.

·       After every accident, however minor we submit a copy of the Injury report in the accident file to ensure a proper analysis.

8. Parental Notification

Parents must be informed immediately by phone if the injury involves a head injury, a suspected fracture, deep cuts, excessive bleeding, or requires hospital treatment. A written report of the injury in the Injury Report form must be sent home on the same day. Minor injuries should be communicated to parents at pick-up or via the school portal. Documentation should include a brief summary of the injury and the care provided. Parents are informed immediately in the case of head injuries, serious injuries, or emergencies. Minor injuries are communicated via an injury report form, phone calls, or email.

9. Recording and Documentation

All injuries must be documented using the Accident/Incident Report Form and logged in the school’s Accident Record File. The record should include the date, time, location, a description of the incident, the nature of the injury, actions taken, persons involved, and any witnesses. Follow-up measures and outcomes should also be recorded. This documentation helps monitor trends and supports safeguarding and legal requirements. Parents provide relevant medical details (e.g., allergies, conditions) upon enrolment and must update the school annually or as needed.

 

10. Reporting to Authorities

Where an injury results in hospitalization, loss of consciousness, or any potential disability, the incident must be reported to the school’s partner hospital within the required timeframe. For incidents with suspected negligence, the Designated Safeguarding Lead must initiate an internal investigation and notify the school authorities.

11. Follow-Up and Review

Once an incident is under control, involved staff must debrief with the Health Officer. The incident will be reviewed to assess for safeguarding implications in consultation with the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Risk assessments will be updated accordingly, and parents may be invited to a follow-up meeting if necessary. Serious incidents may prompt a broader policy review.

12. Training and Awareness

All staff will receive annual refresher training on first aid, injury response, and reporting protocols. This training ensures that all staff can confidently respond to accidents and document them properly. Pupils are taught about basic safety practices and peer support through assemblies and the PSHE curriculum.

13. Special Considerations for Younger Children (PreK–KS1)

In line with the EYFS Statutory Framework, all kindergarten staff must be trained in Pediatric first aid. All minor injuries must be logged in the Injury Report form and communicated to parents upon pick-up. Staff must pay particular attention to the emotional comfort and physical care of younger children to avoid neglect.

14. Location of First Aid Equipment

At least one trained First Aider must be available on each floor of the school. First aid kits will be located on each floor and on school buses. These kits will be checked and replenished regularly to ensure they are fully stocked with essential supplies. Partner Hospital contact numbers and procedures will be clearly displayed in the school sickbay and in administrative offices.

a.       Location of First Aid Kits First aid kits are strategically located on every floor of the school and all school buses. Portable first aid kits will be provided for use during outdoor events, field trips, and sports activities.

b.       Contents of First Aid Kits Each first aid kit includes, at a minimum:

·       Sterile adhesive dressings (hypoallergenic plasters)

·       Sterile eye pads (individually wrapped)

·       Triangular bandages

·       Medium and large sterile wound dressings

·       Micropore tape

·       Disposable gloves (at least 3 pairs)

·       Sterile gauze swabs and alcohol-free cleansing wipes

·       A pair of scissors with rounded ends

·       Vomit bags

·       Face shield or protective mask

·       Guidance leaflet on basic first aid procedures

c.       Maintenance and Checks The School Nurse or Health Officer is responsible for ensuring that all first aid kits are checked and replenished monthly or immediately after an item is used. An inventory log kept in the sick bay (and a copy in the administrative office) is maintained to track expiry dates and usage.

d.       Signage and Visibility Clear signage indicating the location of the sickbay, should be displayed on the hallway notice boards.

e.       Emergency Equipment Emergency contact numbers and procedures are displayed in the school sickbay.

f.        Transportation of Injured Persons Where necessary, an injured person may be transported using a wheelchair, stretcher, or staff-assisted support to the sickbay or emergency vehicle in accordance with safety protocols. No injured person should be moved without an initial assessment unless remaining in place poses a greater risk.

15.       Evaluation

The effectiveness of this policy is assessed through:

•                     Maintaining a low number of accidents across the school

•                     Positive feedback from staff, parents, and students

•                     Continuous supervision and observation during breaks and group activities

•                     Review and discussion of incidents during staff meetings

16. Monitoring

The Senior Leadership Team will review the Accident Record Book every term to identify trends, recurring hazards, and emerging risks. Findings from this review will inform risk assessments and staff training needs. This policy will be evaluated annually or following a major incident, ensuring it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with National best practices.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPENDIX 1: Categories of Injury and School Procedures

At CEDEC International Schools, all injuries are treated with appropriate care and urgency. It is assumed that at least two staff members are present during outdoor or group activities, ensuring adequate supervision. The procedures below guide staff response to various types of injuries:

1.       Minor Cuts and Bruises

a.       Clean the wound using antiseptic, wiping gently from the centre outwards.

b.       Wear disposable gloves at all times to prevent infection.

c.       Check for and remove any foreign objects embedded in the wound.

d.       Apply a sterile plaster, gauze, or lint to cover the wound.

e.       Continue observing the child after treatment.

f.        Advise the child to inform their parent/guardian at home.

g.       Ensure protective equipment is worn during sports (e.g., gum shields for hockey, helmets with mouthguards for hurling).

 

2.       Sprains and Bruises

a.       Apply the RICE method

                                                               i.      Rest the injured part.

                                                             ii.      Ice the area to reduce swelling.

                                                           iii.      Compress with a bandage if needed.

                                                           iv.      Elevate the limb above heart level.

b.       Contact parents if the injury is severe or symptoms persist.

c.       Maintain adult supervision and monitor the child’s condition.

 

3.       Vomiting and Diarrhoea

a.       Contact parents immediately to collect the child.

b.       The child should not remain in school and may only return at least 48 hours after symptoms subside.

 

4.       Faints and Shocks

a.       Lay the child down and raise their legs above the level of the heart.

b.       Loosen tight clothing to aid circulation.

c.       Ensure fresh air is available; open windows or move outdoors if safe.

d.       Keep other pupils at a distance to maintain calm.

e.       Reassure the child once conscious.

f.        Contact parents promptly.

g.       Record the incident in the Accident/Injury Report File.

 

5.       Severe Bleeding

a.       Respond without delay.

b.       Lay the child down and press firmly on the wound using gloves.

c.       Raise the injured area above the heart if possible.

d.       Apply a clean dressing and secure with a bandage.

e.       If blood seeps through, add another dressing over the first—do not remove the original.

f.        For signs of shock (e.g., pale skin, rapid breathing) contact the school nurse.

g.       Seek immediate medical help if bleeding is severe.

h.       Notify parents and document in the Accident/Injury Report Form

 

6.       Burns and Scalds

a.       Remove the child from the source of the burn.

b.       Run cool water over the affected area for at least 10 minutes.

c.       Carefully remove rings or tight accessories (unless stuck to the skin).

d.       Do not remove anything adhered to the skin.

e.       For minor burns, use burn gauze or a specialised dressing (e.g., treated gauze).

f.        Inform parents and record the incident.

 

7.       Unconsciousness

a.       Call for immediate medical assistance.

b.       Place the child in the recovery position.

c.       Call the parents or guardians.

d.       Check for signs of injury to bones, the neck, or spine.

e.       If not breathing, administer artificial respiration (CPR protocol).

f.        Keep other children away.

g.       Record all actions in the Accident/Injury Report File.

 

8.       Stings and Bites

a.       Apply antihistamine cream to reduce swelling or itching.

b.       If symptoms escalate, contact parents immediately.

c.       Monitor for allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of lips or difficulty breathing).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix 2: DRSABC PROCEDURE

What Does DRSABC Stand For?

DRSABC is a step-by-step action plan to follow in a medical emergency to ensure a safe, structured, and effective response.

🅓 – Danger

·       Check for dangers to yourself, the casualty, and bystanders.

·       Look for traffic, fire, sharp objects, or electricity.

·       Do not put yourself at risk.

🅡 – Response

·       Check if the person responds to your voice or touch.

·       Gently tap their shoulder and ask: “Are you okay?”

·       If they respond: keep them calm and monitor.

·       If no response, move to the next step.

🅢 – Shout for Help

·       Call out for assistance or ask someone to get help.

·       Alert nearby staff or call the school nurse.

·       If alone and the situation is serious, call emergency services.

🅐 – Airway

·       Ensure the airway is open and clear.

·       Tilt the head back gently.

·       Look for anything blocking the mouth or throat.

·       Remove visible obstructions carefully (if trained).

🅑 – Breathing

·       Check if the person is breathing normally.

·       Look for chest movement, listen at the mouth, feel for breath.

·       If breathing: place in the recovery position.

·       If not breathing, prepare to call for CPR-trained help.

🅒 – Circulation / CPR

·       Start CPR if you are trained and the person is unresponsive and not breathing.

·       30 chest compressions, 2 rescue breaths (if trained). If untrained, continue chest compressions only.

·       Continue until help arrives or person shows signs of life.

Notes: Always follow school policy when responding to emergencies. If unsure, focus on calling for help and staying with the casualty.

 

Before Giving Child or Baby CPR

1.       Check the scene for safety, form an initial impression, obtain consent from the parent or guardian, and use personal protective equipment (PPE)

2.       If the child or baby appears unresponsive, check the child or baby for responsiveness (shout-tap-shout)

·       For a child, shout to get the child’s attention, using the child’s name if you know it. If the child does not respond, tap the child’s shoulder and shout again while checking for breathing, life-threatening bleeding or another obvious life-threatening condition

·       For a baby, shout to get the baby’s attention, using the baby’s name if you know it. If the baby does not respond, tap the bottom of the baby’s foot and shout again while checking for breathing, life-threatening bleeding or another obvious life-threatening condition

·       Check for no more than 10 seconds

3.       If the child or baby does not respond and is not breathing or only gasping, send for help, and perform CPR

 

Performing Child & Baby CPR

4.       Place the child or baby on their back on a firm, flat surface

·       For a child, kneel beside the child

·       For a baby, stand or kneel to the side of the baby, with your hips at a slight angle

5.       Give 30 compressions

·       For a child, place the heel of one hand in the center of the child’s chest, with your other hand on top and your fingers interlaced and off the child’s chest

·       Position your shoulders directly over your hands and lock your elbows

·       Keep your arms straight

·       Push down hard and fast about 2 inches at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute

·       Allow the chest to return to normal position after each compression

·       For a small child, use a one-handed CPR technique

·       Place the heel of one hand in the center of the child’s chest

·       Push down hard and fast about 2 inches at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute

·       For a baby, place both thumbs (side-by-side) on the center of the baby’s chest, just below the nipple line

·       Use the other fingers to encircle the baby’s chest toward the back, providing support

·       Using both thumbs at the same time, push hard down and fast about 1 ½ inches at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute

·       Allow the chest to return to its normal position after each compression

·       Alternatively, for a baby, use the two-finger technique

·       Use two fingers placed parallel to the chest in the center of the chest

·       For a baby, if you can’t reach the depth of 1 ½ inches, consider using the one-hand technique

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6.       Give 2 breaths

·       For a child, open the airway to a slightly past-neutral position using the head-tilt/chin-lift technique

·       For a baby, open the airway to a neutral position using the head-tilt/chin-lift technique

·       Blow into the child or baby’s mouth for about 1 second

·       Ensure each breath makes the chest rise

·       Allow the air to exit before giving the next breath

·       If the first breath does not cause the chest to rise, retilt the head and ensure a proper seal before giving the second breath. If the second breath does not make the chest rise, an object may be blocking the airway

7.       Continue giving sets of 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths until:

·       You notice an obvious sign of life

·       Another trained responder is available to take over compressions

·       Medical personnel arrive and begin their care

·       You are alone and too tired to continue

·       The scene becomes unsafe

·       You have performed approximately 2 minutes of CPR