In emergency situations, knowing how to administer proper first aid can make the difference between life and death. However, many misconceptions about first aid persist, potentially leading to harmful outcomes. Let us debunk some common first aid myths and explore the facts to ensure you are prepared to respond effectively in critical situations.
Myth 1: Putting butter on a burn.
One of the most persistent first aid myths is that applying butter, oil, or other greasy substances helps heal burns. This could not be further from the truth. These substances trap heat in the burn, potentially causing deeper tissue damage. Instead, immediately run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 10-20 minutes. This helps reduce pain and prevent further injury.
Myth 2: Tilt your head back for a nosebleed.
We have all heard this one – when your nose bleeds, tilt your head back. This is actually dangerous advice, as it can cause blood to flow down your throat, potentially leading to nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, choking. The correct approach is to:
- Sit upright and lean slightly forward.
- Pinch the soft part of your nose just below the bridge.
- Breathe through your mouth while maintaining pressure for 10-15 minutes.
Myth 3: Rubbing snow on frostbitten skin.
While it might seem logical to fight cold with cold, rubbing snow or ice on frostbitten areas can cause serious tissue damage. The crystals in snow can be abrasive, and the extreme cold will only worsen the condition. Instead, gradually warm the affected area using body heat or warm not hot water. Never use direct heat sources like heating pads or fires.
Myth 4: Using a tourniquet to control bleeding.
Many people believe tourniquets should be the first response to any significant bleeding. However, tourniquets should only be used as a last resort for life-threatening limb haemorrhages. For most bleeding, direct pressure with clean gauze or cloth is the safest and most effective treatment. Improper tourniquet use can lead to nerve damage, tissue death, and potentially limb loss.
Myth 5: Removing objects embedded in wounds.
This dangerous myth suggests pulling out objects like glass, knives, or other materials embedded in wounds. These objects may be preventing severe bleeding by acting as a plug. Removal should only be done by medical professionals in a controlled environment. Instead, stabilise the object and seek immediate medical attention.
Myth 6: Never moving a person after a traffic accident.
If a spinal cord injury is suspected, the injured person should preferably not be moved. If they are in a dangerous location such as a road it may of course be necessary to move them. It is essential to focus first on whether they are breathing: if they are unconscious, check the airway is clear by head-tilt chin-lift manoeuvre. This involves gently repositioning the head and chin of the individual to ensure that their airway is clear, allowing them to breathe adequately.
Myth 7: Making a hyperventilation victim breathe into a paper bag.
This practice should not be considered proper medical treatment as it is dangerous. This is because you will make the person breathe in CO2, causing dangerously low oxygen levels. You should get the person to breathe slowly and deeply until they relax. Sips of water can also be helpful.
Myth 8: Using cotton swabs to remove foreign objects from ears.
Using cotton swabs or other objects to remove something stuck in the ear often pushes it in deeper and can damage the ear canal or eardrum. If something is stuck in your ear, seek professional medical help. They have specialised tools and lighting to safely remove foreign objects.
Myth 9: Inducing vomiting in a child after swallowing a harmful substance.
The old wisdom of making someone vomit after swallowing a harmful liquid is outdated and dangerous. Some substances can cause more damage coming back up. After calling the emergency services, get the child to sip milk and drink water to flush out the corrosive substance.
Myth 10: Putting anything into the mouth of someone having a seizure.
Putting something in a seizure victim’s mouth is supposed to stop them from swallowing or biting their tongue, but by putting something in their mouth, they could break their teeth or the object, and then choke on the pieces. Try to keep them safe by putting something under their head or by cushioning them with a coat or blanket and remove any hazards close to them.
Understanding proper first aid techniques can mean the difference between helping and harming in an emergency. While these myths persist, following evidence-based first aid practices is crucial. Whether you are looking to enhance your first aid skills, ensure workplace safety, or gain specialised knowledge, STS First Aid have the perfect course for you.
Remember, when in doubt, call emergency services – it is better to be cautious than to risk making a situation worse with incorrect treatment. Get in touch to learn more and download of training schedule for the rest of 2024 at the top of this page.
