Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

beginning of content

First aid advice

First aid is helping an injured or sick person in the first minutes after an incident or illness. Accidents or emergencies can happen to anyone at any time — anywhere. Applying first aid can help a person feel better, recover more quickly and even save a life.

First aid basics

First aid is what you do to help an injured or sick person immediately after an event. Learn about the 'DRSABCD' action plan and how to find a course.

First aid kits should be maintained so they are ready for use.

First aid kits

An organised and properly stocked first aid kit can give you peace of mind in a medical emergency.

CPR - how to perform it

CPR is cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Find out how and when to perform CPR, and how to find a training course.

Calling triple zero (000)

Triple zero (000) is the number to call for ambulance, police or fire services in an emergency. Only call 000 if the situation is serious and urgent.

Defibrillators

A defibrillator (sometimes called an AED) can save someone's life if they have a cardiac arrest. Learn more about 'defibs' and how to find one.

Bites and stings

Most insect bites and stings are relatively harmless - but some spiders, snakes and sea creatures can be very dangerous. Learn more about them here.

Bumps, knocks and bruises

Bumps, knocks and bruises are common injuries. Read about related symptoms, when to see a doctor, treatment options and possible complications.

Burns and scalds

Burns are common and causes include sunburn, scalds from hot water and chemical burns. Read about the symptoms of and treatment options for burns.

Chemical burns

Many chemicals can cause serious burns to the skin, which should be treated as a medical emergency. Learn how to perform first aid for chemical burns.

Choking

Choking occurs when something gets stuck in, and blocks, a person’s throat or windpipe. Find out what to do in this medical emergency.

How to use an adrenaline autoinjector

An adrenaline autoinjector can save the life of someone who's having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Learn how to use an EpiPen or an Anapen...

Hot weather risks and staying cool

Australia's a 'sunburnt country' where hot days and heatwaves can stress the body. Here's how to stay cool and hydrated.

Poisoning

Poisoning is common and most cases happen at home. Learn about the symptoms, prevention and what to do in an emergency.

Child with coin.

Swallowed object

Swallowing foreign objects, such as a button battery or magnet, can be dangerous. Know what to do if you or your child has swallowed a dangerous objec...

Swallowed substance

Common household and garden products are often swallowed by accident. While many are low toxicity, some are potentially harmful.

Wounds, cuts and grazes

Minor wounds like cuts and grazes can usually be treated without medical attention, by keeping them clean and preventing infection. Find out how.

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice

Australian Government, health department logo ACT Government logo New South Wales government, health department logo Northen Territory Government logo Government of South Australia, health department logo Tasmanian government logo Victorian government logo Government of Western Australia, health department logo

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.