Principles and ethical rules of psychological first aid

Abstract

According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), psychological first aid (PFA) is based on the following ethical principles: 1) Protection of safety, dignity and human rights: avoid actions that may put people at risk of further traumatic effects; to protect adults and children who receive assistance from physical and mental injury; treat people with respect and in accordance with cultural and social norms; perform only those actions towards a person to which he gives his consent (this refers to the ability to talk to him, touch him, make important decisions for him, etc.); to ensure that assistance is provided fairly, without discrimination; to help people defend their rights and receive appropriate assistance; to act in the best interests of each victim to whom assistance is provided.