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10 first aid myths

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There are many myths about first aid. These are some of the most common, and dangerous:

Myth 1: If someone is having a heart attack they should lie down
Wrong. You are actually making it harder for them to breathe. A half-seated position with bent knees and a supported back is better.

Myth 2: Do nothing; otherwise you’ll make things worse
Many people fear they will do more harm than good when trying to help. Obviously an untrained member of the public cannot perform medical procedures, but there are simple actions that could well save a life. Specifically, if someone is unconscious, put them in the recovery position to prevent choking; and administer CPR to someone who is not breathing or whose heart has stopped.

Myth 3: An ambulance is coming straight away
No. It won’t be there for at least a few minutes at best. This is enough time for the person's condition to take a turn for the worse. In this time it’s vital you do something to help.

Myth 4: If someone is bleeding heavily, tie a tourniquet above the injury
This is a bad idea as you could stop all blood flow and cause tissue damage. Rather apply pressure to the wound and keep it raised.

Myth 5: Never move a person after a motor accident
If a spinal injury is suspected, the person should preferably not be moved – but this may be necessary if they are in a life-threatening location. Focus first on if they are breathing. If they're unconscious, check that the airway is clear by lifting the chin and tilting the head.

Myth 6: If a child drinks a harmful substance make them vomit
More damage can be caused as the vomit exits the body, potentially burning the airway. After calling emergency services, get the child to sip milk and drink water to flush out the corrosive substance.

Myth 7: If someone is choking, try to get the object out with your fingers
Sticking your fingers down someone’s throat could actually push the obstruction further down. To dislodge the object, smack the person between their shoulder blades. If this doesn't work, try the Heimlich Manoeuvre – but only if you know what you are doing otherwise you could cause internal damage.

Myth 8: Put something in the mouth of someone having a seizure
This is supposed to stop them swallowing or biting their tongue. The problem is that they could break their teeth, or the object, then choke on the pieces. Instead, place something underneath their head or just cushion the area with your coat or a blanket and remove any hazards.

Myth 9: If someone feels faint, put their head between their legs
If they put their head between their legs they could fall forwards and injure themselves. The same could happen if you make them sit up. Instead, they should lie down and you should raise their legs to get blood flowing to the brain.

Myth 10: Make a hyperventilating person breathe into a paper bag
This is actually quite dangerous because you will be making them breathe in CO2, causing dangerously low oxygen levels. Instead, you should get the person to breathe slowly and deeply until they relax. Sips of water can also be helpful.

Most importantly, make sure you know a few first aid basics. Ultimately this will ensure you are ready to save a life if you ever need to.





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