What is the term for immediate care given to someone suffering from an injury or illness?

The term for the immediate care provided to someone who is suffering from an injury or illness is first aid. This encompasses a range of simple, often life-saving procedures that can be performed by anyone with basic training, usually before professional medical help arrives. First aid can include practices such as assessing the situation, calling for help, controlling bleeding, performing CPR, or treating burns and fractures.

First aid is critical in emergency situations as it helps stabilize the individual's condition and can prevent further harm. While CPR is a specific technique used in cases of cardiac arrest, it is a component of first aid rather than a standalone term for immediate care. Emergency response refers to the broader actions taken by trained responders in a crisis situation, not just the initial care. Medical treatment applies to more in-depth care delivered by healthcare professionals, which typically occurs after first aid has been administered.