This page covers 63 first aid words that start with H, ranging from “Heimlich Maneuver” to “Hemorrhagic Fever.” The list spans a broad range of emergency topics, including bleeding control, airway management, heat illness, shock, and allergic reactions. These terms are used by responders, healthcare workers, and trained bystanders who need to act quickly and communicate clearly in emergencies.
First aid words are medical and emergency terms that describe injuries, conditions, and techniques used before professional help arrives. The Heimlich Maneuver at the top of this list was named after Dr. Henry Heimlich, who introduced the technique in 1974. His work shows how a single discovery can become a globally recognized part of emergency vocabulary.
Below you’ll find the table with Word, Definition, and Description for all 63 entries.
Word: The name of each first aid term, which you can use to look up more information or recognize the word in an emergency.
Definition: A short, plain-language explanation of what each term means, helping you grasp the core concept at a glance.
Description: A practical account of how each term applies in real emergencies, with details on symptoms, causes, and first aid actions.
First aid words
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| Heimlich Maneuver | A first aid technique using abdominal thrusts to expel a foreign object lodged in a choking person’s airway |
| Hemorrhage | Profuse, uncontrolled bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel |
| Hypothermia | A dangerous drop in core body temperature below 95°F (35°C) |
| Hyperthermia | An abnormally elevated body temperature caused by heat gain or failure of the body’s cooling system |
| Heatstroke | A severe, life-threatening form of heat illness where the body’s temperature regulation fails |
| Heat Exhaustion | A heat-related illness from prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluid replacement |
| Heat Cramps | Painful muscle spasms caused by loss of salt and fluids during intense activity in hot environments |
| Hyperventilation | Abnormally rapid or deep breathing that lowers carbon dioxide levels in the blood |
| Hemostasis | The body’s natural process of stopping bleeding through vessel constriction, platelet aggregation, and clotting |
| Hemostatic Dressing | A wound dressing impregnated with clotting agents to accelerate the cessation of bleeding |
| Hemostatic Agent | A chemical or material used to promote clotting and stop bleeding quickly |
| Hematoma | A localized collection of blood outside blood vessels, typically forming a lump or bruise |
| Hemothorax | An accumulation of blood in the pleural space between the chest wall and the lungs |
| Hemoptysis | The coughing up of blood or blood-streaked mucus from the lungs or airways |
| Hematemesis | The vomiting of blood, indicating bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract |
| Hemorrhagic Shock | A life-threatening condition resulting from severe blood loss that reduces the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to tissues |
| Head Tilt-Chin Lift | An airway-opening technique performed by tilting the head back and lifting the chin to clear the airway |
| Head Injury | Any trauma to the skull, scalp, brain, or underlying structures caused by external force |
| Heart Attack | A medical emergency caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle |
| Heart Rate | The number of times the heart beats per minute, measured as a vital sign |
| Hyperglycemia | Abnormally high blood glucose levels, often occurring in people with diabetes |
| Hypoglycemia | Abnormally low blood glucose levels, causing weakness, confusion, and potential loss of consciousness |
| Hypertension | Persistently elevated blood pressure that increases risk of stroke, heart attack, and other emergencies |
| Hypotension | Abnormally low blood pressure that may indicate shock, dehydration, or a serious medical condition |
| Hypoxia | A condition in which the body’s tissues do not receive enough oxygen |
| Hypoxemia | An abnormally low level of oxygen in the blood, measured via pulse oximetry or blood gas |
| Hypercapnia | An excess of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, typically due to inadequate ventilation |
| Hypovolemia | An abnormally low volume of blood or fluid circulating in the body |
| Hypovolemic Shock | A severe, potentially fatal condition caused by a critical loss of blood or fluid volume |
| Hydration | The process of providing or maintaining adequate fluid levels in the body |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | A mild antiseptic solution used to clean minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds |
| Hydrocortisone | A mild corticosteroid used topically or systemically to reduce inflammation and allergic reactions |
| Hives | Raised, itchy, red welts on the skin resulting from an allergic or immune reaction |
| Hypersensitivity | An exaggerated or inappropriate immune response to a substance, ranging from mild rash to anaphylaxis |
| Hyperventilation Syndrome | A condition of excessive breathing causing symptoms like dizziness, tingling, and chest tightness due to low CO2 |
| Hypertensive Crisis | A sudden, severe spike in blood pressure that can cause organ damage or stroke |
| High-Altitude Sickness | A group of conditions caused by reduced oxygen availability at elevations above 8,000 feet |
| Head-to-Toe Assessment | A systematic physical examination performed by a first aider or responder to identify all injuries |
| Hand Washing | The act of scrubbing hands with soap and water to remove pathogens and prevent infection |
| Hand Sanitizer | An alcohol-based gel or liquid used to disinfect hands when soap and water are unavailable |
| Hemoglobin | The iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body |
| Head Bandage | A bandage wrapped around the head to control scalp bleeding or protect a head wound |
| Hot Compress | A warm, moist cloth or heat pack applied to an injury site to reduce pain, stiffness, or swelling |
| Hot Pack | A sealed chemical or reusable pack that generates heat when activated for therapeutic use |
| Hallucination | A false sensory perception occurring without external stimulus; may indicate poisoning, overdose, or head trauma |
| Hazard | Any condition, substance, or situation that has the potential to cause injury or illness |
| HazMat | Abbreviation for hazardous materials — substances posing significant risk to health, safety, or the environment |
| Harness | A system of straps worn to prevent falls or to safely secure and move an injured person |
| Helmet | Protective headgear designed to absorb impact and reduce the risk of head injury |
| High-Flow Oxygen | Supplemental oxygen delivered at rates above 10–15 liters per minute to rapidly raise blood oxygen levels |
| Horizontal Recovery Position | A lateral body position used to maintain an open airway in an unconscious, breathing patient |
| Hyperextension | Forceful extension of a joint beyond its normal anatomical range of motion |
| Hypoallergenic | Describing a substance or material that is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction |
| Hypodermic Needle | A hollow needle used to inject medications or fluids beneath the skin |
| Hypotonic Solution | A fluid with a lower solute concentration than body fluids, used in specific medical fluid therapies |
| Hypertonic Solution | A fluid with a higher solute concentration than body fluids, used in specific emergency treatments |
| Hypernatremia | An abnormally high sodium concentration in the blood, causing neurological symptoms |
| Hyponatremia | An abnormally low sodium concentration in the blood, potentially causing confusion and seizures |
| Healing | The biological process by which the body repairs damaged cells, tissues, and organs after injury or illness |
| Healthcare Provider | A licensed or trained professional authorized to assess, diagnose, and treat medical conditions |
| Heart Failure | A chronic condition where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs |
| Hemoglobin Saturation | The percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is carrying oxygen, measured by a pulse oximeter |
| Hemorrhagic Fever | A class of severe viral illnesses causing widespread bleeding and organ failure |
Descriptions
Heimlich Maneuver
One of the most important choking rescue techniques, it involves standing behind the victim and applying firm inward and upward thrusts just above the navel to force the blockage out of the airway.
Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage is a life-threatening emergency in first aid. Controlling it quickly with direct pressure, tourniquets, or hemostatic dressings is a top priority to prevent hemorrhagic shock.
Hypothermia
When the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, hypothermia sets in. First aid includes removing wet clothing, warming the person gradually, and avoiding vigorous rubbing of the skin.
Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia ranges from heat cramps to life-threatening heatstroke. First aid focuses on cooling the person rapidly using cold water, fans, or ice packs on key pulse points.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is marked by a core temperature above 104°F, confusion, and lack of sweating. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate cooling and emergency services.
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness. First aid involves moving the person to a cool area, loosening clothing, and giving cool water to drink.
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps typically affect the legs, arms, or abdomen. First aid involves resting in a cool place, stretching the affected muscles, and drinking electrolyte-rich fluids.
Hyperventilation
Hyperventilation often accompanies anxiety or panic attacks, causing tingling and dizziness. First aid includes coaching the person to breathe slowly and, if safe, breathing into a paper bag.
Hemostasis
Hemostasis is the goal of hemorrhage control in first aid. Techniques like direct pressure, elevation, and pressure bandages all work to support this process.
Hemostatic Dressing
Hemostatic dressings such as QuikClot are used in severe trauma care when direct pressure alone cannot control life-threatening bleeding.
Hemostatic Agent
Common hemostatic agents include kaolin and zeolite, often embedded in gauze. They are critical in military and emergency medicine for managing major hemorrhage.
Hematoma
A hematoma forms when damaged blood vessels leak into surrounding tissue. First aid includes applying ice to reduce swelling and elevating the injured area.
Hemothorax
Hemothorax can occur after chest trauma and compromises breathing. First aid involves keeping the person still, monitoring breathing, and calling emergency services immediately.
Hemoptysis
Hemoptysis can signal serious injury or illness such as a punctured lung. In first aid, the person should be positioned upright, kept calm, and emergency help summoned.
Hematemesis
Hematemesis is a medical emergency. First aid involves keeping the person still and in a safe position to prevent choking, and contacting emergency services without delay.
Hemorrhagic Shock
Hemorrhagic shock requires immediate control of the bleeding source and emergency medical care. Signs include pale skin, rapid weak pulse, and altered consciousness.
Head Tilt-Chin Lift
Head tilt-chin lift is a foundational CPR skill used to open an unconscious victim’s airway before giving rescue breaths. It should not be used if spinal injury is suspected.
Head Injury
Head injuries range from mild concussions to life-threatening skull fractures. First aid includes keeping the person still, monitoring for unconsciousness, and calling for help.
Heart Attack
Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and pain radiating to the arm or jaw. First aid includes calling emergency services, having the person rest, and giving aspirin if appropriate.
Heart Rate
Checking heart rate helps assess a patient’s cardiovascular status. A normal resting rate is 60–100 beats per minute; abnormal rates may indicate shock, cardiac events, or other emergencies.
Hyperglycemia
In first aid, a diabetic person with hyperglycemia may appear confused and lethargic. Emergency services should be called if the person cannot manage their own insulin.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a common diabetic emergency. If the person is conscious, first aid involves giving sugary food or drink; if unconscious, emergency services must be called immediately.
Hypertension
While not always an acute first aid scenario, a hypertensive crisis with severe headache or vision changes requires immediate emergency care.
Hypotension
Hypotension in an injured or ill person can signal internal bleeding or shock. First aid includes laying the person flat, elevating the legs if possible, and calling for help.
Hypoxia
Hypoxia can result from airway obstruction, drowning, or poisoning. First aid focuses on opening the airway, providing rescue breathing, and administering supplemental oxygen when available.
Hypoxemia
Hypoxemia is the measurable counterpart to hypoxia. Emergency first aid includes ensuring a clear airway, rescue breathing, and supplemental oxygen delivery.
Hypercapnia
Hypercapnia can occur during respiratory arrest or severe asthma. It requires ensuring adequate ventilation, potentially including assisted breathing or CPR.
Hypovolemia
Hypovolemia results from bleeding, burns, or dehydration. In first aid, controlling fluid loss and positioning the person appropriately are key until advanced care arrives.
Hypovolemic Shock
Hypovolemic shock causes organs to fail due to inadequate circulation. First aid actions include controlling bleeding, keeping the person warm, and calling emergency services.
Hydration
Proper hydration is essential in managing heat emergencies and preventing deterioration in injured patients. Oral rehydration should only be offered to conscious, non-vomiting individuals.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria through oxidation and creates visible fizzing on contact with tissue. It is a common item in basic first aid kits for wound cleaning.
Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone cream can relieve itching and redness from insect bites, rashes, and mild allergic skin reactions as part of basic first aid treatment.
Hives
Hives can appear rapidly after exposure to an allergen. First aid includes removing the trigger if known, applying a cool compress, and seeking medical help if breathing is affected.
Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitivity reactions are common first aid emergencies. Mild cases may be managed with antihistamines, while severe reactions require epinephrine and emergency care.
Hyperventilation Syndrome
First aid involves reassuring the person and guiding them to breathe slowly and steadily. Breathing into a paper bag may help restore CO2 levels if anxiety is the cause.
Hypertensive Crisis
A hypertensive crisis requires emergency medical attention. First aid includes keeping the person calm, seated, and avoiding any physical exertion while waiting for help.
High-Altitude Sickness
Also known as acute mountain sickness, it causes headache, nausea, and fatigue. The primary first aid treatment is descending to a lower altitude as quickly as possible.
Head-to-Toe Assessment
Starting from the head and working downward, this assessment helps ensure no injury is missed in a trauma victim before or during transport to medical care.
Hand Washing
Hand washing is a foundational infection control skill in first aid. It should be performed before and after treating any wound or injury to protect both the rescuer and patient.
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol effectively kills most germs. It is a key item in portable first aid kits and should be used before and after patient contact.
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin levels are a key indicator of blood loss. In first aid, pale skin and weakness can indicate low hemoglobin due to hemorrhage.
Head Bandage
Head wounds often bleed heavily due to the scalp’s rich blood supply. A firm, properly applied head bandage can slow bleeding until professional medical help arrives.
Hot Compress
Hot compresses are used in first aid for muscle strains and aches after the initial 48 hours of injury, when the acute swelling phase has passed.
Hot Pack
Hot packs are standard items in first aid kits used for soothing muscle pain and improving circulation to injured areas in the subacute phase of injury.
Hallucination
In a first aid context, hallucinations are a red flag for serious conditions like drug toxicity or severe head injury. Emergency services should be called without delay.
Hazard
Identifying hazards is the first step in any first aid response. Rescuers must ensure the scene is safe before approaching a victim to avoid becoming casualties themselves.
HazMat
First aiders should never enter a HazMat scene without proper training and equipment. The priority is to keep bystanders away and wait for specialized response teams.
Harness
Harnesses are used in rescue operations and work-at-height environments. In first aid and rescue, they help extract injured persons from confined spaces or elevated positions.
Helmet
Helmets are critical personal protective equipment in sports and construction. In first aid, a helmet worn by a trauma victim should be removed only by trained personnel to avoid spinal injury.
High-Flow Oxygen
High-flow oxygen is a critical first aid intervention for cardiac arrest, stroke, and respiratory emergencies. It is delivered via non-rebreather mask by trained responders.
Horizontal Recovery Position
Also called the recovery position, it keeps the airway clear of the tongue and prevents aspiration of vomit. It is a core skill taught in all basic first aid courses.
Hyperextension
Hyperextension injuries commonly affect the knee, elbow, or neck. First aid includes immobilizing the joint, applying ice, and avoiding any further movement until assessed by a professional.
Hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic gloves, bandages, and tapes are used in first aid kits to reduce the risk of contact allergic reactions, especially in patients with latex or adhesive sensitivities.
Hypodermic Needle
Hypodermic needles are used by trained first responders to deliver epinephrine, insulin, or other emergency medications. Safe disposal in sharps containers prevents needle-stick injuries.
Hypotonic Solution
Hypotonic solutions are used carefully in emergency medicine. In the field, understanding fluid type helps first responders communicate patient care needs to incoming medics.
Hypertonic Solution
Hypertonic saline is sometimes used for severe hyponatremia or shock. Knowledge of fluid types supports accurate handoff to advanced medical personnel.
Hypernatremia
Hypernatremia can result from severe dehydration or excessive salt intake. First aid focuses on ensuring medical evaluation and cautious oral fluid replacement if the person is conscious.
Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia can occur with excessive water intake or certain medical conditions. It is a medical emergency requiring hospital treatment; first aid involves preventing further water intake.
Healing
Healing is the ultimate goal of first aid. Proper wound care — cleaning, covering, and monitoring for infection — supports the body’s natural healing response.
Healthcare Provider
In a first aid context, transferring care to a healthcare provider is the standard endpoint. Responders should give a clear handoff report including the mechanism of injury and vital signs.
Heart Failure
Acute episodes of heart failure can be first aid emergencies, presenting as severe shortness of breath and swelling. The person should be kept upright and emergency services called.
Hemoglobin Saturation
Normal saturation is 95–100%. In first aid, values below 90% indicate hypoxia and signal the need for supplemental oxygen and emergency medical care.
Hemorrhagic Fever
Hemorrhagic fevers such as Ebola require full personal protective equipment and isolation. First aiders should not approach suspected cases without specialized training.