Help in Medical care between individuals

Professionals who practice non-traditional medicine generally have their own consulting room. You will find their contact details in the ads on our Askaide platform.

This may be an osteopath who can treat your muscle trauma or chronic neuralgia by performing precise manipulations on your muscles and joints.

You can also call on a homeopath, for example in the treatment of allergies, ENT disorders or pain not relieved by traditional medicines.

If you want professional help to lose weight and change your bad eating habits, a naturopath will undoubtedly be very beneficial to you. Specialized in dietetics and the use of natural products with therapeutic properties, he will advise you on how to adopt a better lifestyle.

Finally, a hypnotherapist can help you gain self-confidence, fight against traumatic stress or even help you fight chronic pain that conventional medication cannot eliminate.

You must first determine which type of professional corresponds to your request for medical care. This can be an osteopath, a hypnotherapist, a sophrologist, a homeopath, a naturopath or an acupuncturist for example.

You can also search for expected medical practice:

Use one of these terms in our search tool and indicate the city closest to your home in order to target the advertisements corresponding best to your need for medical care.

Selecting a home healthcare professional who fits your needs begins with a clear understanding of what kind of care is required. Are you looking for someone to provide basic daily assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, or do you need a specialist such as a registered nurse to manage medical treatments, wound care, or medication schedules? Start by making a list of all the activities and duties you expect the caregiver to perform, including the number of hours required each day or week, any specific medical conditions to monitor, and whether you need someone who can drive, cook specialized meals, or speak a certain language. Once you have defined the scope of care, you can begin to evaluate potential candidates.

The second step is to check the qualifications and credentials of the professionals you are considering. For licensed healthcare providers such as nurses, physiotherapists, or occupational therapists, verify that they are registered with the appropriate professional body in your country and that their licenses are current. For home health aides or personal care assistants, ask about certifications from recognized organizations, first aid training, and any special courses they have taken. Experience is also important: find out how long they have been working in home care and whether they have handled cases similar to yours. Don’t hesitate to ask for references and follow up with former clients to get honest feedback on the quality of care and reliability.

Once you have narrowed down your options, arrange interviews with the candidates. Ideally, these meetings should take place in the home environment so that the professional can see the setting and meet the person who will receive care. During the interview, discuss your expectations clearly and ask questions about how the caregiver would handle different situations. Pay attention to their communication style, empathy, and ability to listen. A good caregiver should show respect for your values and routines and be able to adapt their approach to your preferences. If the person receiving care is able to participate in the interview, involve them in the conversation and encourage them to express their comfort level and trust.

Financial considerations are also a key factor. Ask about the professional’s fees, whether they charge by the hour or offer packages, and what is included in their rate. Check if there are additional costs for transportation, nights, or weekends. Compare rates among candidates, but remember that the cheapest option is not always the best; quality and reliability often justify a higher price. If you are working with an agency, inquire about their screening and training processes, how they handle scheduling and replacements, and what happens if you are not satisfied with the caregiver.

Finally, once you have made your choice, set up a trial period and communicate regularly with the caregiver to provide feedback and address any concerns. Trust and communication are essential for a successful home care experience. Review the arrangement after a few weeks to ensure that the needs of the person receiving care are being met effectively. Don’t hesitate to make adjustments or seek a different professional if necessary. Choosing the right home healthcare professional is an ongoing process, but a thorough assessment and open dialogue will help ensure that you receive the support and peace of mind you need.

Knowing basic first aid steps can make a critical difference in the minutes before emergency services arrive. The first principle is to ensure your own safety and that of others by making the scene secure. Before approaching an injured person, look around for hazards such as fires, oncoming traffic, loose electrical wires, or dangerous substances. Only when it is safe should you move closer. Once you have ensured the area is safe, try to assess the condition of the person by speaking to them and asking simple questions. A conscious person who can answer and follow instructions should be kept calm and encouraged not to move unnecessarily; reassure them and stay by their side.

If the victim does not respond, check their breathing by looking for chest movements and listening or feeling for breaths at the mouth. If the person is breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position to keep their airway open. To do this, kneel beside them, position the arm nearest to you at a right angle to the body, bring the far arm across the chest and place the hand against the cheek, bend the far knee up so the foot is flat on the ground, and gently roll the person towards you. This position ensures the airway remains clear by preventing the tongue or vomit from blocking it.

If the person is not breathing or shows no signs of circulation, call the emergency number (such as 112 or 911) immediately and begin chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, interlock the fingers of your other hand on top, keep your arms straight, and press down hard and fast, compressing the chest about two inches (five centimeters) at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. If you are trained and an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, turn it on and follow its voice prompts. Continue CPR until professional help arrives or the person shows signs of recovery.

For external bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage to slow or stop the bleeding. Maintain the pressure continuously; if blood soaks through, do not remove the first bandage but add more material on top and keep pressing. If there is an object embedded in the wound, do not attempt to remove it; instead, apply pressure around the object and stabilize it. For burns, cool the affected area under cool running water for at least ten minutes to reduce tissue damage, and then cover it with a sterile dressing.

It’s also helpful to know how to respond to choking by performing abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver), to recognize signs of diabetic emergencies or epileptic seizures, and to provide reassurance to someone experiencing a heart attack while waiting for advanced medical care. Taking an accredited first aid course from organizations like the Red Cross gives you the confidence and practical skills to deal with these situations. Above all, remaining calm, clear-headed, and attentive to the victim’s breathing and circulation while relaying accurate information to the emergency responders will maximize the chances of a positive outcome.

Preparing a comprehensive first aid kit at home requires thoughtful planning and regular maintenance so you can respond effectively to minor injuries or emergencies. Start by choosing a durable container with compartments, such as a plastic box with a secure lid or a soft-sided bag, and label it clearly as "First Aid" The container should be easy to open and carry, water-resistant if possible, and stored in a place known to all household members, yet out of reach of small children.

A well-stocked kit should include sterile dressings and bandages of various sizes to cover wounds, such as adhesive bandages, gauze pads, and rolled bandages. Add a small pair of sterile gloves to protect yourself and the patient, and a pair of small scissors or trauma shears for cutting tape, clothing, or bandages. Include adhesive tape for securing dressings and a triangular bandage or sling for immobilizing limbs. Disposable antiseptic wipes or alcohol swabs are essential for cleaning wounds; add a bottle of antiseptic solution like chlorhexidine or iodine for more serious cuts. Include a digital thermometer to check for fever and a pair of tweezers for removing splinters or ticks.

Medication and creams are also important components. Pack pain relievers such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) and ibuprofen, both for adults and, if applicable, for children, respecting dosage instructions. Add antihistamines to treat allergic reactions and hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion for itching and insect bites. An oral rehydration solution or packets of electrolyte powder can help in cases of dehydration. If someone in your household has a known condition like asthma, keep an extra inhaler in the kit, and if possible, an epinephrine auto-injector for severe allergic reactions. Remember that prescription medications should be stored in the kit only if recommended by a healthcare provider and monitored for expiration.

Additional items that enhance your kit include a flashlight with spare batteries, a breathing barrier with a one-way valve for CPR, instant cold packs to reduce swelling and pain, and a space blanket to retain warmth or provide shade. A small, waterproof notebook and a pen are useful for noting vital signs or instructions when under stress. Consider including a first aid manual or quick reference guide with instructions for handling common emergencies like burns, fractures, and choking. If you have pets, you might also pack items specific to their care, such as styptic powder and a muzzle.

Maintaining your kit is just as important as assembling it. Check its contents twice a year to replace used items and dispose of expired medications. Update it according to changes in your family’s health needs, seasonal activities, or travel plans. It can be helpful to keep a smaller version of the kit in your car or to create mini-kits for activities like hiking or sports. Encourage everyone in your household to attend a basic first aid course so they know how to use the supplies confidently. A well-prepared first aid kit is an investment in safety and peace of mind, ensuring you’re ready to handle unexpected situations calmly and effectively.

In the event of a household burn, your actions in the first minutes can markedly influence the injury’s severity and recovery. Begin by removing the person from the source of heat—turn off the stove, blow out the candle, or unplug the iron—and make sure the surroundings are safe. Immediately run cool tap water (around 15°C) over the burned area for 15 to 20 minutes. Cooling the burn stops the heat process, limits tissue damage, and reduces pain. Avoid using ice or very cold water, as extreme cold can cause tissue damage and make the injury worse. If the burn is under clothing that has adhered, don’t pull fabric off; instead, carefully cut around the stuck material with scissors to avoid tearing the skin. Before the tissue swells, remove rings, bracelets, or watches near the area so they don’t constrict blood flow.

After cooling, gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth and cover it with a sterile non‑stick dressing or cling film to protect it from contamination and air. Don’t apply butter, oils, toothpaste, or other home remedies; these retain heat and increase infection risk. Over‑the‑counter burn gels may be used for small, superficial burns but consult a health professional if the burn covers a large area. Assess the burn’s depth and extent: first‑degree burns cause redness and mild pain; second‑degree burns form blisters and cause more intense pain; third‑degree burns may appear white, charred, or leathery and the area may be numb because of nerve damage. Burns larger than the size of the injured person’s palm or those affecting the face, hands, feet, joints, or genitals should be evaluated by a doctor. Call emergency services immediately if the victim has difficulty breathing, the burn is electrical or chemical, or if the person is very young, elderly, or has other health issues.

Once the immediate care is done, monitor the wound daily. For minor first‑degree burns, keep the skin moisturized using a fragrance‑free lotion or aloe vera gel to ease tightness. Change dressings every day with clean hands or disposable gloves. Watch for signs of infection: increasing pain, spreading redness, warmth, pus, swelling, or fever. Seek medical advice promptly if these occur. Encourage the person to drink water to prevent dehydration, and offer an appropriate pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed. Keep tetanus vaccinations up to date, as burns can sometimes allow bacteria entry. Finally, practice prevention to reduce future incidents: supervise children in the kitchen, turn pot handles inward, use oven mitts, test bathwater temperature, keep hot appliances and liquids out of reach, and ensure smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are functional. Educating family members about fire safety and first aid can save lives.

When someone is experiencing severe bleeding, acting swiftly and correctly is critical to prevent shock or worse. Start by ensuring your own safety: wear gloves if available to avoid contact with blood, and move the victim away from any danger. Ask the injured person to sit or lie down to reduce the risk of fainting; if possible, have them lie flat with legs elevated to improve blood flow to vital organs. Identify the source of bleeding and apply direct, firm pressure using a clean cloth, sterile dressing, or even your gloved hand. If the blood soaks through, do not remove the original dressing; instead, place additional layers on top and continue pressing firmly. Elevate the injured limb above the level of the heart, if it does not cause further injury. Maintain constant pressure for at least ten minutes without checking, as releasing pressure to look at the wound can restart bleeding.

If direct pressure and elevation don’t stop the bleeding and if you are trained to do so, apply a tourniquet to limbs only. Place the tourniquet 5–7 cm above the wound, tighten it until the bleeding stops, and note the time of application. Tourniquets are a last resort when the hemorrhage is life‑threatening and medical help is delayed. For bleeding caused by embedded objects, do not remove the object. Apply pressure around it to stabilize and control bleeding while waiting for professionals. Always call emergency services immediately if the bleeding is severe, spurting, does not stop after ten minutes of pressure, or is located in critical areas such as the head, neck, or torso. Keep monitoring the person’s airway and breathing; be ready to perform CPR if needed.

While waiting for help, keep the person warm and calm. Do not give them anything to eat or drink in case surgery is needed. If they feel faint or dizzy, encourage slow deep breaths. Avoid applying tourniquets or pressure near joints like elbows or knees, where you might damage nerves. Once bleeding is controlled, do not remove dressings; leave them for healthcare providers to handle. After the incident, wash your hands thoroughly and dispose of any contaminated materials safely. If you came into contact with blood, follow your local guidelines for infection control. Prevention is equally important: ensure your home has a fully stocked first aid kit with sterile dressings and gloves. Consider taking a certified first aid course to learn proper techniques for managing hemorrhages and to gain confidence in responding to emergencies. Severe bleeding can be frightening, but a calm, systematic approach can save lives.

Recognizing and responding to a stroke at home requires swift action because every minute counts when brain tissue is deprived of oxygen. A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). Both types lead to a sudden loss of brain function. The easiest way to remember the signs of a stroke is the acronym FAST: Face, Arm, Speech, Time. Ask the person to smile; if one side of the face droops or is numb, that is a warning. Ask them to raise both arms; if one arm drifts downward or cannot be lifted, this suggests weakness. Listen to their speech; slurred or incoherent words or an inability to speak at all are indicators. If you observe any of these signs, note the time symptoms started and call emergency services immediately. Do not wait to see if the symptoms resolve; early medical intervention can reduce damage and improve outcomes.

Once you have called for help, keep the person calm and comfortable. Have them sit or lie down in a safe position with their head elevated slightly. Do not give them food, drink, or medication; swallowing may be compromised, increasing the risk of choking. If the person is conscious and able to speak, gather information about medications they take, previous medical conditions, allergies, and exactly when the symptoms began—paramedics and doctors will need this information. Stay with the person and monitor their breathing and level of consciousness. If they vomit, gently turn them onto their side to prevent aspiration. If the person loses consciousness and stops breathing, begin CPR if you are trained, but continue to call for help. Never attempt to drive the person yourself; emergency services can provide life-saving treatment en route, and they can bypass hospital delays by alerting the stroke team.

It is also important to be aware of other subtle signs of a stroke, such as sudden confusion, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, severe headache with no known cause, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination. Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body may affect the leg as well as the arm. Recognizing these warning signs in yourself is just as important as recognizing them in others. If you suspect you are having a stroke, call emergency services and unlock your door to allow paramedics quick access. Do not try to sleep it off or drive yourself to the hospital. Make sure that your family members know the signs of stroke and have a plan for how to respond. If someone is at higher risk—for example, they have high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, or a history of smoking—discuss stroke prevention and emergency response during routine medical appointments.

Preparation and education can make a life-or-death difference. Taking a basic first aid or first responder course will provide hands-on practice in recognizing strokes and responding appropriately. Keeping a list of emergency numbers visible and ensuring your phone is charged can help when minutes matter. Knowing your home address and being able to describe it clearly to dispatchers is also vital. After the acute phase, support for the person may include rehabilitation and adapting the home for mobility; understanding this continuum can help you advocate for timely and comprehensive care. Ultimately, recognizing and responding quickly to a stroke is the most powerful action you can take to protect the brain and give someone the best chance at recovery.

Attending a first aid training course equips you with the knowledge and confidence to act quickly in emergencies and can make the difference between a full recovery and a life lost. Many people assume they will never face a medical emergency, but accidents at home, on the road, or at work happen every day. Having the skills to recognize and respond to conditions like choking, cardiac arrest, severe bleeding, and shock allows you to stabilize a person until professional help arrives. First aid training covers more than just CPR; it teaches you how to assess safety, protect yourself, use protective equipment, manage burns, handle fractures and sprains, control bleeding, and assist with medical emergencies such as strokes, allergic reactions, or diabetic episodes. By practicing on mannequins and role-playing scenarios, you gain muscle memory that reduces hesitation and improves technique.

First aid certification also empowers you to prevent accidents. Learning about common hazards encourages you to keep your home and workplace safe: securing rugs to prevent falls, storing chemicals properly, and recognizing warning signs before they become crises. Many courses include information on how to assemble and maintain a well-stocked first aid kit, choose appropriate emergency contacts, and develop evacuation plans. Awareness and preparation reduce risks and allow communities to recover more quickly after incidents.

To get certified, start by researching accredited organisations in your country. In Belgium and most of Europe, the Red Cross, St John Ambulance, and local fire services offer comprehensive first aid training. Many employers and community centers host courses that are open to the public. Compare course descriptions; some focus on basic life support (BLS) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), while others cover pediatric first aid or mental health crises. Decide which program meets your needs. Most trainings last one or two days and include both theory and hands-on practice. At the end, you complete a written or practical assessment to earn your certificate, which is typically valid for two to three years.

Online first aid courses can supplement in-person training, but they should not replace practical sessions. Techniques like chest compressions, bandaging, or using an automated external defibrillator (AED) require tactile feedback and coaching to perform correctly. Many providers now offer blended courses where you study the theory online and attend a shorter in-person workshop to practice. Ensure that the course is recognised by health authorities or employers.

Once certified, keep your skills up to date. Refresh your training regularly to learn new guidelines and reaffirm your competence. Encourage family members and colleagues to join you; having multiple people trained increases the likelihood that someone will be present in case of an emergency. Display your certification at home or work to encourage others to ask questions and seek training themselves. In a crisis, being able to stay calm and apply first aid does more than treat physical injuries; it reassures the person in distress that they are not alone. Ultimately, first aid training is a small investment of time and money that pays back many times over by giving you the ability to act decisively, save lives, and promote a culture of safety and care in your community.