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Last update - 14:41 13/04/2009
Special Project
Stay healthy with American Friends of Magen David Adom
Tags: Israel, Magen David Adom 

Haaretz.com has teamed up with American Friends of Magen David Adom to help you stay fit and well. All of our top tips have been provided by medical experts and will help you keep healthy and know what to do in an emergency.

And remember: For emergencies in Israel dial 101!

Poisonous Plants
Poisonous plants can cause serious illness if eaten. These include a few varieties of mushrooms, seeds, bulbs, rhizomes and berries.
  • If ingested, check and clear the airway.
  • If someone ingests a poisonous plant or berry and is unconscious, check their breathing and pulse and be prepared to resuscitate if necessary.
  • Place in the recovery position since vomiting may occur, but do not attempt to induce it.
  • Always call 101 and speak with an Magen David Adom professional.
  • Try to identify the plant, and which part of it has been ingested. Keep samples of the plant, and any vomited material, to show the MDA team.

    Nosebleeds
    A nosebleed is sudden bleeding from one or both nostrils, and may result from a variety of events: a punch in the nose, breathing dry air, allergies, or for no apparent reason.
    To stop the flow of blood from a common nosebleed, follow these steps:
  • Sit or stand upright to slow the flow of blood in the veins of the nose. Do not tip your head back.
  • Pinch your nose with your thumb and forefinger for 10 minutes without relieving pressure. Breathe through your mouth during this time.
  • If the bleeding continues despite these efforts, give MDA a call at 101.

    Program Your Phone
    A new initiative has been launched by Magen David Adom, the Health Ministry and cellular phone companies that can potentially save your life.

  • Choose someone familiar with your medical history and store them in your mobile phone directory as an emergency "first contact," providing doctors with your medical history, even if you are unconscious or unable to speak.
  • Program their phone number in your mobile phone with an asterisk next to it so it's easy to find. It is recommended to store their name in your address book with 101 - Israel's emergency number - preceding it, for example "101 Shlomo."
  • During a medical emergency, if you are not able to communicate, an MDA medic will look at the cellphone to find out whom to call by locating the name and number that begins with "101."

    Bicycle Safety

    Thousands of people in Israel go bicycle riding. Unfortunately, many cyclists have been injured or killed while riding their bikes because they ignored the dangers and forgot that there is a limit to their capabilities.

    In order to prevent injuries, there are some tips for riders.

  • All riders must be sure to drink plenty of fluids, slowly increase the level of exertion and do not overtax their abilities, especially on hot days.
  • Young riders as well as those over the age of 40 are advised to consult their doctor before beginning to ride.
  • Potential riders should be aware of past medical problems, such as heart problems or other chronic diseases.
  • It is advisable to ride in groups or pairs, and that one of the riders have been trained in an MDA First Aid course and have an MDA First Aid kit with him.

    First Aid for Burns

    Burns can result from dry heat or fire, moist heat such as steam or hot liquids, electricity, chemicals, radiation or sunlight.

    Treatment for burns depends on whether it is a first (outer skin layer), second (lower and outer skin), or third (outer and deeper skin layers as well as any underlying tissue and organs) degree burn, how much of the body is affected, and where it is located.

  • You must cool the area right away and place the affected area under cold running water, then blot the area dry without rubbing.
  • If the affected area is dirty, gently wash it with soapy water. Do not use ointments, local anesthetic sprays and creams.
  • Keep the area elevated. If needed, dress the area with a single layer of loose gauze.
  • Call your doctor if you show signs of infection or if affected area is still painful.
    For emergencies, call MDA on 101 immediately!


    For emergencies in Israel dial 101!
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