Home First Aid Every Lagos Family Should Know

Life-saving first-aid basics for bleeding, burns, choking and collapse, plus how to build a home kit. Essential reading for Lagos families. Starcare, Ikeja.

Starcare International Hospital · No. 21, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Maryland-GRA, Ikeja, Lagos
+234 9152 70 70 70 · WhatsApp +234 9154 70 70 70

When a child swallows something, someone is burned in the kitchen, or a relative collapses, the first few minutes matter enormously — and they happen at home, before any doctor is involved. Knowing basic first aid can save a life. Our emergency team at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, shares the essentials every Lagos household should know.

  • Minutes
    matter most in an emergency
  • Stay calm
    the first rule of first aid
  • Call ahead
    so we're ready for you
  • Know signs
    act fast on red flags

First aid does not replace medical care — it buys precious time until you reach help. For any serious emergency, call ahead and head to our Accident & Emergency service in Ikeja, open 24/7.

Essential First-Aid Responses

Severe bleeding

Press firmly on the wound with a clean cloth and keep pressing. Raise the injured part if possible. Get to hospital urgently for heavy bleeding.

Burns and scalds

Cool the burn under cool (not ice-cold) running water for up to 20 minutes. Do not apply toothpaste, oil or ice. See our full guide to burns first aid.

Choking

For an adult or older child who cannot breathe or speak, firm back blows and abdominal thrusts can dislodge the blockage. Call for help immediately.

Fainting or collapse

Lay the person down, raise their legs, and check breathing. If unresponsive and not breathing normally, send for emergency help at once.

⚠ Important: For chest pain, stroke signs (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty), heavy bleeding, or a collapse — do not wait. These are emergencies; see our guide on when to visit A&E.

Build a Home First-Aid Kit

  • Clean gauze, bandages and plasters
  • Antiseptic and gloves
  • Scissors and tape
  • A list of emergency numbers, including ours, on the fridge

Save Our Emergency Number Today

Programme Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja — +234 9152 70 70 70 — into every family phone so you can act fast when seconds count.

Book an Appointment →

First-Aid Quick Reference at a Glance

EmergencyFirst ActionSevere bleedingFirm, continuous pressureBurnCool running water up to 20 minChokingBack blows + abdominal thrustsCollapse, not breathingSend for help, start CPR if trained

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions our patients in Lagos ask most often. For anything specific to your case, our specialist team at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, is always available to help.

Should I put anything on a burn?

Only cool running water. Avoid toothpaste, oil, butter or ice — they can worsen the injury. Cover loosely with a clean, non-fluffy cloth.

What do I do if someone is choking?

If they cannot breathe, cough or speak, give firm back blows then abdominal thrusts, and get emergency help immediately.

When should I call for emergency help rather than wait?

For chest pain, stroke signs, heavy bleeding, difficulty breathing, fits, or any collapse — act immediately, do not wait to 'see how it goes.'

Is it worth learning CPR?

Absolutely. CPR can keep blood and oxygen moving until help arrives and dramatically improves survival. Consider a certified course.

Final Takeaway: Be Ready Before You Need It

A little preparation — a stocked kit, saved numbers and basic knowledge — turns panic into action when it matters most. At Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, our emergency team is ready 24/7 the moment you reach us.

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Tags: First Aid Lagos · Home First Aid Nigeria · Emergency Care Ikeja · CPR Lagos · Family Safety Nigeria

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