HARMONIZATION OF FIRST AID TERMINOLOGY IN UKRAINE: EDUCATIONAL AND LEGAL DISCOURSE IN AN INTERNATIONAL CONTEXT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/m.2414-5998.2026.1.16028Keywords:
first aid; terminological unification; перша допомога; домедична допомога; невідкладна допомога; термінологічна уніфікація; layperson care; bystander first aid.Abstract
Abstract. Subject and purpose. The article examines the problem of terminological fragmentation in the field of first aid and related forms of emergency assistance within Ukrainian in legal, educational and scientific discourse. The purpose of the study is to substantiate the need for unification and harmonization of national terminology with internationally accepted concepts and standards. Methodology. The research applies comparative legal analysis, terminological and translation analysis, elements of discourse analysis, and a targeted review of regulatory acts and academic sources. These methods allow for a systematic comparison of Ukrainian terms with international equivalents used by the WHO, ERC, and in foreign legislation. Results. The study reveals inconsistencies between lexicographic, educational, and normative uses of key terms such as first aid, pre-medical care, and emergency care, as well as the persistence of non-normative terminology in academic and training materials. It is demonstrated that the term first aid has the greatest potential for conceptual consolidation and alignment with international practice. Application. The findings may be used in legislative drafting, standard-setting, and the revision of educational curricula related to first aid and emergency preparedness. They are also applicable to translation practice and the development of unified terminological guidelines. Conclusions. Terminological harmonization in the field of first aid is a necessary condition for improving legal certainty, educational coherence, and practical implementation of life-saving measures. Aligning Ukrainian terminology with international standards contributes to more effective regulation and cross-border interoperability in emergency response.
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