U.S. Army First Aid Manual

First aid is the emergency care given to the sick, injured, or wounded before being treated by medical personnel. Because medical personnel will not always be readily available, the nonmedical service members must rely heavily on their own skills and knowledge of life-sustaining methods to survive on the integrated battlefield. This publication outlines both self-aid and aid to others. More importantly, it emphasizes prompt and effective action in sustaining life and preventing or minimizing further suffering and disability.