IFRC 2025 First Aid Updates
Why this module exists
The IFRC International First Aid, Resuscitation and Education Guidelines 2025 were officially launched on 23 March 2026 — eight months after your RKS manual. Since RKS is a Slovenian Red Cross society and IFRC member, the RKS will eventually align with these. Exam = RKS manual. This module = professional currency.
Psychological first aid (PFA) — new in 2025
A new subsection inside the General approach. Recognises that a rescued person is psychologically distressed even when physically uninjured. Core idea: humanity at the centre of first aid.
PFA — the basics on scene
- Approach calmly. Introduce yourself by name and role.
- Get to their level (sit/kneel) and use a steady, lower voice.
- Move them away from the scene if it is safe to do so.
- Ask what they need; do not assume. Offer water, a blanket, a phone call.
- Listen without judging. Do not promise outcomes you cannot guarantee.
- Connect them with family/friends or professional help before you hand off.
- After the incident: debrief with your team. PFA includes the rescuers, not just the victim.
Anxiety and panic — new topic
- Signs: rapid shallow breathing, chest tightness, tingling around mouth/hands, dizziness, feeling of doom
- Often mistaken for cardiac event or asthma — assess carefully
- Calm voice, eye contact at their level, slow breathing demonstration (in 4 sec, out 6 sec)
- Move away from triggers (crowds, sirens, water if water-related)
- If symptoms do not resolve in minutes or you suspect a medical cause → 112
Jellyfish stings — treatment UPDATED
- 1. Rinse with SEAWATER (strong recommendation) — never fresh water, never rub
- 2. Remove visible tentacles with tweezers (not bare hands)
- 3. Immerse the affected area in HOT water 40–45 °C for 20–40 min
- 4. DO NOT use ammonia, isopropanol, or ethanol — recommended against
- For exam: stick with RKS manual answer (cooling cream/ice). On the beach in real life: heat treatment is the 2025 evidence-based recommendation.
Why hot water for jellyfish (and weever)
Both jellyfish nematocyst toxins and weever fish venom are heat-labile proteins — they denature above ~40 °C. The same principle applies: heat breaks down the toxin. Different temperatures for safety (jellyfish 40–45 °C, weever 50–60 °C as the venom is more heat-stable).
Opioid overdose & naloxone — new topic
- Signs: pinpoint pupils, slow/absent breathing, blue lips, unresponsive
- Call 112 immediately
- If breathing is absent or inadequate → rescue breaths and start CPR if no pulse
- Naloxone (intranasal Narcan) reverses opioid effects within minutes — administer if available and trained
- Note: not typical for water rescue scenarios, but relevant for beach/festival environments
Pulse oximetry — new in first aid
A pulse oximeter (finger clip, SpO₂) is now part of the suggested first aid kit. Useful when respiratory distress is suspected. Normal: 95–100% at sea level. Below 92% is concerning. Cold extremities, nail polish, and movement give false low readings.
What this means for you
For the RKS exam, follow the manual exactly. As a working water rescuer, three things matter most from IFRC 2025: (1) treat the psychological side of every rescue — including for yourself, (2) use hot water for jellyfish stings, (3) carry a pulse oximeter if your kit allows.