When emergencies strike, knowing the right first aid techniques can mean the difference between life and death. However, many of us unknowingly perform harmful practices that could worsen the situation. This guide highlights 10 common first aid mistakes and provides the correct approaches to ensure effective assistance during critical moments.
1. Severe Bleeding: Avoid Immediate Tourniquet Use
Mistake: Many people instinctively apply a tourniquet to stop severe bleeding. While this can be effective, using it as the first measure may cause unnecessary damage by cutting off circulation entirely.
Correct Approach: First, clamp the nearest artery to the wound and use a sterile compressive bandage to stop the bleeding. Only apply a tourniquet if absolutely necessary, such as in the case of uncontrollable bleeding, and loosen it every 10–15 minutes to maintain circulation.
Video
Watch the video to learn first aid tips on treating severe bleeding!
2. Nosebleeds: Don’t Tilt the Head Back
Mistake: Tilting the head backward during a nosebleed is a common but dangerous practice. This position can cause blood to flow into the throat, leading to choking or nausea.
Correct Approach: Instead, have the person sit down and slightly tilt their head forward. Pinch the soft part of the nose for about 10 minutes to allow the bleeding to stop. Avoid clogging the nose with cotton unless the bleeding persists for over 15 minutes, in which case medical attention is required.
3. Hypothermia: Reheat Gradually
Mistake: Rubbing the skin with snow or oil, or using alcohol, can damage the tissue further and result in rapid heat loss.
Correct Approach: Place the person in a warm environment, remove wet clothing, and cover them with dry blankets. Warm drinks and meals can help restore body temperature gradually. Never administer alcohol, as it expands blood vessels and accelerates heat loss.
4. Cardiac Arrest: Tailor CPR to the Patient’s Age
Mistake: Performing the same CPR technique on adults, teenagers, and infants can be ineffective or even harmful.
Correct Approach: For adults, use two hands with firm chest compressions. For teenagers, one hand may suffice, while for infants, use only two fingers for compressions. Ensure the individual is on a flat, firm surface before starting CPR.
5. Burns: Avoid Piercing Blisters
Mistake: Popping blisters or removing burnt clothing can cause infections or worsen the injury.
Correct Approach: If the burn is minor, rinse it with cool water for 20 minutes and apply a sterile bandage. For severe burns, avoid disturbing the affected area and call for medical help immediately. If the person is conscious, give them mineral water or a saltwater solution to stay hydrated.
6. Choking: Be Cautious with the Heimlich Maneuver
Mistake: Using the Heimlich maneuver on an unconscious person can exacerbate the problem.
Correct Approach: If the person is conscious, perform the Heimlich maneuver by applying quick, upward abdominal thrusts. For unconscious individuals, lay them on their back, perform chest compressions, and clear the airway manually. For choking infants, gently administer back blows and ensure their head is positioned lower than their body.
7. Dislocations: Never Attempt to Reset a Joint
Mistake: Trying to reposition a dislocated joint can cause severe damage to surrounding tissues and nerves.
Correct Approach: Immobilize the affected area with a makeshift splint, securing the limb in its current position without forcing movement. Seek medical assistance to properly reset the joint and assess the extent of the injury.
8. Poisoning: Ensure Proper Gastric Lavage
Mistake: Failing to flush the stomach or using inappropriate substances to induce vomiting can worsen poisoning effects.
Correct Approach: Encourage the individual to drink 10–20 glasses of water and induce vomiting by pressing the base of the tongue with two fingers. Repeat the process until the expelled fluid is clear. Never attempt this if the person is unconscious—seek professional medical help immediately.
9. Snakebites: Do Not Suck the Venom
Mistake: Sucking venom from a snakebite wound, as seen in movies, is not only ineffective but can also introduce bacteria to the wound.
Correct Approach: Lay the person down to slow the spread of venom and immobilize the affected limb. For example, tie the bitten leg to the other leg or secure the arm to the chest. Avoid using a tourniquet or applying ice, as these methods do not prevent venom circulation and can cause tissue damage.
10. Abdominal Pain: Avoid Painkillers
Mistake: Taking painkillers or antispasmodics for abdominal pain may mask symptoms of severe conditions like appendicitis or bowel obstruction.
Correct Approach: If you or someone else experiences acute abdominal pain, avoid self-medicating and seek immediate medical attention. Masking the pain can delay diagnosis and treatment for potentially life-threatening conditions.
Video
Watch the video: A professional explains 10 common first aid mistakes!
Conclusion: Knowledge Is the Best First Aid Tool
First aid is about acting swiftly but wisely. Mistakes can not only hinder recovery but also escalate an emergency into a life-threatening situation. By understanding these common errors and their correct alternatives, you can confidently provide help when it’s needed most. Consider taking a certified first aid course to enhance your skills and be fully prepared for any emergency. Remember, every second counts, and informed action can save lives.
