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Whether it’s shifting medical guidelines on the most efficient life-saving techniques or enduring misconceptions passed through generations, much of what we assume about first aid is either outdated or outright incorrect. The seven first aid blunders outlined here address a wide range of emergencies, from snake bites to seizures, and could have life-or-death consequences.
Relocating an Injured Person
If you encounter someone who has collapsed, been involved in a car accident, or sustained any other injury, refrain from moving them unless they are in immediate danger. Avoid placing a jacket under their head to make them more comfortable, and don’t attempt to help them to their feet. Moving someone who is injured typically won’t assist them, and if they have a spinal injury, you could cause further harm, such as paralysis or death. Instead, wait for trained professionals to arrive.
Dashing to assist without assessing the surroundings for safety
In an emergency, many well-meaning individuals instinctively rush to help others. While this desire to assist is admirable, it often results in unintended harm. For example, jumping into the ocean after a drowning person might leave both rescuers trapped in a dangerous current, requiring lifeguards to intervene. The same principle applies in situations like house fires, busy roadways, and other hazardous environments. Always check that it’s safe before taking action.
Removing venom from a snakebite by sucking it out
Is it a good idea to suck the venom out of a snakebite? Should you cut above the bite to try and help? Is applying a tourniquet or using ice a helpful method? Should you catch the snake for identification? The answer is no to all of these actions. According to the CDC, if bitten by a snake, follow these steps in order:
Have the person lie down or sit with the bite area in a comfortable, neutral position.
Remove any jewelry like rings or watches before swelling sets in.
Clean the bite with soap and water.
Cover the bite with a sterile, dry dressing.
Mark the boundary of swelling and tenderness on the skin, noting the time beside it.
Fretting over the need for ‘mouth-to-mouth resuscitation’ (in most cases)
If you still think CPR involves both mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and chest compressions, your first aid knowledge is outdated. For most situations, compression-only CPR is the best approach. As per the American Heart Association, 'Hands-Only CPR performed by a bystander is as effective as CPR with breaths in the initial moments of an out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest.' The exceptions include drowning victims and individuals who collapse due to breathing issues, but for the majority of cases, especially cardiac arrest, compression-only CPR is the recommended method. Even if you’re not sure how to do it perfectly, pressing on their chest to the rhythm of the Bee Gees’ 'Stayin’ Alive' is more helpful than doing nothing at all, although performing CPR learned in a first aid class is ideal.
Performing the Heimlich Maneuver without accompanying back blows
One of the more recent updates to first aid protocols is how to handle choking. Instead of rushing in with the Heimlich Maneuver, begin by delivering back blows. Bend the person over at the waist, stand behind them, and give five firm strikes between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If this doesn’t clear the airway, proceed with the Heimlich. Continue alternating back blows with the Heimlich until the obstruction is cleared or professional help arrives.
Placing objects in the mouth of someone having a seizure
The outdated approach to handling someone having a seizure was to shove something into their mouth to prevent tongue biting or to physically restrain them. Avoid doing either of these. Placing objects in a seizure victim’s mouth could result in a bite, or worse, cause the object to break and block the airway, making a frightening situation potentially life-threatening. Instead, clear the area of any hazards, move furniture away from them, and dial 911. Keep in mind, the person may or may not be conscious, so speak to them calmly and offer reassurance.
Attempting to induce vomiting after poisoning
If a person around you has ingested poison, inducing vomiting is not recommended. Depending on the type of poison, it could cause more harm, particularly in the case of potent acids or alkaline substances. It's crucial to contact poison control or emergency services without delay and identify the substance ingested if possible. In the event the person becomes unconscious, ensure their airway remains unobstructed while waiting for help to arrive.
