In emergency situations, quick thinking and action are essential. However, people who mean well often make common first aid mistakes that can worsen the situation. Knowing the proper first aid techniques can be the difference between helping someone or unintentionally causing harm.
Let’s find out the most common first-aid mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure you’re equipped with the right knowledge when an emergency arises.
It is common for first aid to be administered with haste and without assessing the environment critically. Everyone may easily forget vital hazards such as a fire, an oncoming vehicle, or a fragile building when panicking or under stress. Taking time to remain calm and observe the situation will ensure that you and others are safe while administering the aid. The situational awareness indeed plays a key role in preventing further damage and making intelligent decisions before giving your aid.
Many people instinctively tilt their head back during a nosebleed to stop the blood flow. However, this causes the blood to run down the throat, which can lead to choking or vomiting. The proper technique is to lean forward and pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes. This helps slow the bleeding and prevents any complications.
While tourniquets are often portrayed as essential for controlling severe bleeding, they should only be used as a last resort. Incorrect use of a tourniquet can cause permanent damage to the affected limb. Instead, apply pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or dressing until professional help comes.
A common first aid mistake is ignoring the importance of thoroughly cleaning a wound. Applying antiseptic without first washing the area with clean water can trap dirt and bacteria inside, leading to infection. Always wash a wound with water, then use an antiseptic, and cover it with a clean dressing.
In cases of suspected spinal injury, such as after a fall or accident, moving the person can cause further harm. The best course of action is to keep the person as still as possible and call emergency services. If the person must be moved due to an immediate danger (e.g., fire), ensure the head, neck, and spine are aligned as much as possible.
While it’s important to cover a wound or injury, wrapping a bandage too tightly can cut off circulation and cause more damage. When bandaging an injury, ensure it’s snug but not so tight that it restricts blood flow. Check for signs of reduced circulation, such as numbness or a bluish tint in the skin, and adjust the bandage accordingly.
Shock is a life-threatening condition that can occur after significant trauma, blood loss, or severe injury. One of the common first aid mistakes is focusing solely on visible injuries while overlooking signs of shock, such as pale skin, rapid breathing, and confusion. To help someone in shock, lay them down, elevate their legs if possible, and keep them warm until emergency help arrives.
In an emergency, many people hesitate to perform CPR because they fear doing it incorrectly. However, performing no CPR at all can have worse consequences than doing it imperfectly. A common mistake is not pressing hard enough during chest compressions. The correct technique involves pushing down at least 5cm on the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Remember, even imperfect CPR is better than none when waiting for professional help to arrive.
Proper first aid techniques can be a life-saving skill, but it’s essential to know the proper techniques to avoid making common mistakes. By understanding the first aid do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that you provide the best care possible in an emergency.
At West Coast First Aid Training, we offer first aid courses that cover everything from emergency first aid to advanced life-saving techniques. Our team, which includes lifeguards, paramedics, nurses, and even lifeguards, is among the most experienced in Australia.
