First Aid Show Australia Daily Minute

First aiders don’t just protect patients—they also need to protect themselves. In this episode, we explore the key vaccinations recommended for first aiders and healthcare workers. We also discuss why vaccination matters when working around blood, body fluids, and infectious illness, and how immunisation works alongside PPE, gloves, and infection control practices. Because a protected first aider...

The eyes can provide important clues during a medical emergency. In this episode, we explain the PEARL assessment and why it is used in first aid and emergency care to help assess neurological function. Learn how to perform a simple pupil assessment, what direct and consensual light reflexes are, and what abnormal pupil findings may indicate. Because sometimes the eyes can reveal what’s happening...

Hidden deep behind the stomach is one of the body’s most important organs—the pancreas. In this episode, we explain what the pancreas is, where it is located, its approximate size, and the critical roles it plays in digestion and blood sugar regulation. We also explore why the pancreas matters in first aid, including its links to diabetes, abdominal pain, metabolic emergencies, and trauma. Because...

Ibuprofen is one of the most commonly used relief medications in Australia—but it’s not suitable for everyone. In this episode, we explain what ibuprofen is, common Australian brand names like Nurofen and Rafen, the different forms it comes in, and the conditions it is commonly used to treat. We also cover important contraindications and precautions, standard adult and paediatric dosing, and why u...

A splinter might seem small—but removing it incorrectly can make things worse. In this episode, we explain what splinters are, the common materials they can be made from, and when a superficial foreign object may be safely removed within a first aider’s scope of practice. Because even small injuries deserve proper care. Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more https://firstaidshow...

The eyes can reveal a lot during a medical emergency. In this episode, we explain what the pupils are, how they control light entering the eye, and how the nervous system causes them to react automatically. We also explore what changes in the pupils—such as fixed, dilated, constricted, or unequal pupils—may indicate in a first aid context, Because sometimes the smallest part of the body can provid...

It’s quiz time again. In this fast-paced refresher episode, we test your knowledge from Episodes 161 to 169 covering negligence, allergic reactions, paracetamol, kidneys, AMPLE history taking, injected poisoning, funnel web spiders, roller bandages, and wasp stings. Five quick questions designed to help reinforce key first aid concepts and keep your knowledge sharp. Because the best time to test y...

Not all stings are the same. In this episode, we explore why wasp stings—especially from the European wasp—are different from bee stings, including why wasps can sting multiple times and why disturbing a nest can become dangerous very quickly. Learn how to recognise European wasps, where they commonly build nests, what reactions their stings can cause, and the important first aid steps to take aft...

Roller bandages are one of the most common items found in a first aid kit—but many people don’t actually know the difference between them. In this episode, we break down the common types of roller bandages what each one is used for, and the most practical sizes for different injuries. We also introduce snake bite pressure bandages and explain why they are different from standard elastic bandages....

A “big black spider” bite in parts of Australia should never be ignored. In this episode, we explore Funnel Web spider bites, including where these dangerous spiders are commonly found, how quickly symptoms can develop, and the life-saving first aid steps that must be taken immediately. Because with Funnel Web bites, rapid action can save a life. Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts &amp...

Not all poisonings are swallowed. In this episode, we explore injected poisoning—when toxic substances enter the body directly through injection both  intentional and accidental. Remind me, whats the phone number for the poisons information centre in Australia? Because when poison enters directly into the body, early action matters fast. Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more ht...

Good first aid isn’t just about what you can see—it’s also about the questions you ask. In this episode, we break down the AMPLE mnemonic, a structured patient history tool used in first aid, ambulance, and emergency care settings. Learn how asking the right quetsions to the emergency can provide critical clues about a patient’s condition. Because sometimes the right question can be just as import...

Your kidneys work around the clock—but most people rarely think about them until something goes wrong. In this episode, we explain what the kidneys are, where they are located, and the critical role they play in filtering blood, balancing fluids, and removing waste from the body. We also explore why kidney injuries matter in first aid and trauma situations, including how internal bleeding and kidn...

The countdown is officially on. The 2026 First Aid Show and Conference is just one week away—coming to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre and streaming online live on Monday 18th May 2026. Hosted by Australian comedy and TV legend Peter Helliar, with live entertainment from Matt Bradshaw and The First Aid Show Band, this year’s event brings together some of Australia’s leading expert...

Paracetamol is one of the most common pain relief medications—but are you using it correctly? In this episode, we explain what paracetamol is, how it works, when it is used, common Australian brands, and its role in first aid for temporary pain relief and fever. We also cover how long it takes to work, how long it lasts, common forms it comes in, standard adult and children’s dosing, and the impor...

Allergy and anaphylaxis are not the same thing—and knowing the difference matters. In this episode, we explain what is happening inside the body during an allergic reaction, including how mast cells release histamine and other chemicals that trigger swelling and inflammation. We also break down the clear difference between a standard allergic reaction and anaphylaxis, the most severe and life-thre...

Many people hesitate to help because they fear legal consequences. In this episode, we explain negligence in an Australian first aid context, what must be proven for a claim to succeed, and why genuine first aiders acting reasonably are rarely sued. Learn how to reduce legal risk by staying within your training, obtaining consent where possible, following guidelines, and calling for help early. Be...

And we’re back. Back with another quiz episode—your quick-fire refresher to keep those first aid skills sharp. This time we’re reviewing Episodes 151 through to 159—covering agonal breathing, pain assessment, Australian spiders, foot and ankle injuries, bee stings, pulse oximetry, absorption poisoning, and first aid scissors.

Scissors might seem basic—but in first aid, the right pair can save valuable time. In this episode, we explain the two main types of scissors every first aid kit should have. Learn what each type is used for, ideal sizes, and why quality scissors matter when you need to expose injuries, cut tape, or remove clothing quickly. Because in an emergency, blunt tools can slow sharp thinking. Listen now o...

Poisoning doesn’t always mean swallowing something. In this episode, we explore absorption poisoning—when toxic substances enter the body through the skin or eyes.   Learn the common sources, warning signs, and the critical first aid steps including protecting yourself, removing contaminated clothing, flushing with water, and when to call the Poisons Information Centre.   Because what touches the...

What does that little finger clip actually tell you? In this episode, we explain SpO2 and pulse oximetry—how it measures oxygen levels in the blood and why it can be a valuable tool in first aid. Learn what normal readings look like, when low oxygen levels become concerning, how oxygen therapy practices have changed, and why some patients may normally run lower numbers. Because a pulse oximeter gi...

  Stung by a bee? Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make all the difference. In this episode, we explain the correct first aid treatment for bee stings, including how to safely remove the stinger, reduce pain and swelling, and manage itching. We also cover the warning signs of an allergic reaction, when to use an adrenaline auto-injector, and when to call 000. Because with bee stings...

Twisted ankle. Severe foot pain. Shoes and socks still on—what should a first aider do? In this episode, we tackle a common question after foot and ankle injuries: leave the shoe on or carefully remove it?   Learn why proper assessment matters, what injuries can be hidden inside footwear, and how careful shoe removal can help with treatment, ice application, splinting, and patient comfort.   Becau...

Australia has plenty of spiders—but which ones are actually dangerous? In this episode, we explore some of the better-known Australian spiders including the Funnel Web, Redback, White Tail, and other common species. Learn where they are found, what they look like, which ones are venomous, and why most spiders are far less dangerous than their reputation suggests. Because knowing what’s out there i...

Pain is personal—and no two people experience it the same way. In this episode, we explore the DOLOR pain assessment tool used in emergency and healthcare settings to better understand what a patient’s pain may be telling you. Learn how to assess pain using description, duration, onset, location, other symptoms, and relieving or provoking factors. We also discuss why pain scores matter and why a p...