ABSTRACT
After the concept of "platinum 10 minutes" in emergency rescue of a seriously injured was proposed, both narrow and broad concepts concerning the proposal were gradually formed. In a relatively short time, the concept has received widespread concern, both from professional circle and society at large. However, "platinum 10 minutes" in emergency salvage is handicapped by two "blind" areas, namely, a period of lacking first aid and a period of shortage of professional medical treatment. It should be emphasized that timely treatment is the motive and goal of a successful salvage of a seriously injured individual. Therefore, in a sense a successful salvage of a seriously injured depends on three factors, namely, time, space, and first aider, in order to achieve such a goal. Among these three factors the time lag before a successful first aid should be considered to be the most important factor. Therefore, the first witness, though he or she may not be a health professional, is the core individual to carry out first aid in order to save the life of the victim. In this sense, it should be recognized that "buddy" aid, or first aid performed by a layman is the beginning and foundation of a successful salvage, as it is evident that it could not be performed by a professional who is not readily available. First aid at the scenario is not only life saving, but it lays the foundation for a successful salvage of the victim. In many instances, it might be more valuable than professional treatment. Therefore, first aid effort at the site of accident should not be neglected, on the other hand, it should be re-emphasized. It not only lays a good foundation for final professional treatment, it should be considered as the important link of a successful salvage of a seriously wounded person. Therefore, a high quality first aid given by a laymen within a few minutes after injury, not only it is life-saving, but also it should be regarded as an independent link in the course of life saving of a seriously injured. Though it is such an important and most effective step in "platinum 10 minutes", yet it is at present the weakest link. Therefore, it behoves us not only to re-emphasize it, but also recommend self aid and aid by a bystander as a nation-wide strategy in the treatment of seriously injured individuals.