World First Aid Day 2024: These Are The Common First Aid Mistakes And You Must Know How To Avoid Them

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World First Aid Day, observed on the second Saturday of September, is a crucial occasion for highlighting the importance of first aid in saving lives and preventing injuries. While many people are well-intentioned in their desire to help during emergencies, common first-aid mistakes can inadvertently cause more harm than good.

Knowing these pitfalls and learning how to avoid them is essential for ensuring that first-aid interventions are effective and safe. This year, World First Aid Day will be celebrated on 14 September 2024. Here are 10 common first-aid mistakes, guiding how to avoid them and improve your response in emergencies.

1. Tilting The Head Back During A Nosebleed

One prevalent misconception is that tilting the head back during a nosebleed will help stop the bleeding. This approach can lead to blood flowing down the throat, which might cause choking or stomach irritation.

How To Avoid It:

Instead of tilting the head back, have the person sit upright and lean slightly forward. Pinch the soft part of the nose, just below the nasal bridge, for 10 to 15 minutes. Applying a cold compress to the nose or the back of the neck can help constrict blood vessels and reduce bleeding.

2. Using Ice Directly on a Burn

Applying ice directly to a burn is a common mistake that can exacerbate tissue damage and lead to frostbite. The extreme cold can worsen the injury and delay proper healing.

How To Avoid It:

For burns, hold the affected area under cool (not cold) running water for 10 to 15 minutes. After cooling the burn, cover it with a sterile gauze or clean cloth. Avoid using ointments or butter, as these can trap heat and potentially worsen the burn.

3. Misinterpreting Stroke Symptoms

Stroke symptoms, such as sudden numbness, slurred speech, or confusion, are often mistaken for simple fatigue or drowsiness. Delayed medical attention can have severe consequences, as timely treatment is crucial for stroke recovery.

How To Avoid It:

Recognize stroke symptoms using the acronym FAST:
F: Face drooping
A: Arm weakness
S: Speech difficulty
T: Time to call emergency services

If any of these signs are present, seek emergency medical help immediately without delay.

4. Moving Someone with a Suspected Spinal Injury

In the event of a suspected spinal injury, moving the person can lead to further harm, including paralysis. Despite the urge to move the injured individual to a more comfortable position, this action should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

How To Avoid It:

Keep the person still and call emergency services. If the person is in imminent danger, such as from a fire, move them with great care while keeping the spine as straight as possible. Avoid unnecessary movement to prevent further injury.

5. Improper Wound Cleaning

Using harsh substances like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol on wounds can damage tissues and delay healing. Proper wound cleaning is essential to prevent infection and promote recovery.

How To Avoid It:

Clean the wound gently with soap and water. After cleaning, apply an antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection and cover the wound with a sterile bandage. Change the dressing regularly and monitor for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling.

6. Performing Incorrect CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical life-saving technique, but incorrect application, such as not pressing hard enough or not maintaining the right rhythm, can be ineffective.

How To Avoid It:

Perform CPR by pressing hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Aim for a depth of about 2 inches. Ensure proper hand placement-use the heel of one hand in the center of the chest with the other hand on top. If unsure about rescue breaths, focus on chest compressions until professional help arrives.

7. Removing An Object Stuck In A Wound

In cases where an object is embedded in a wound, removing it can cause severe bleeding and additional damage. The instinct to remove the object may be strong, but it can be dangerous.

How to Avoid It:

Do not attempt to remove the object. Instead, stabilize it by applying pressure around the wound with clean gauze or cloth. Seek immediate medical assistance to address the injury properly.

8. Applying a Tourniquet Incorrectly

Using a tourniquet improperly, such as applying it too loosely or for non-life-threatening injuries, can cause serious complications, including tissue damage and loss of limb.

How to Avoid It:

A tourniquet should only be used for severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by direct pressure. Place it 2 to 3 inches above the wound (not over a joint) and tighten it until the bleeding stops. Note the time of application and seek emergency medical care as soon as possible.

9. Mismanaging Hypothermia

Warming someone with hypothermia too quickly, such as using hot water or heating pads, can lead to dangerous fluctuations in body temperature and shock.

How to Avoid It:

For mild hypothermia, gradually warm the person by moving them to a warm environment and using dry blankets. Avoid direct heat sources. For severe hypothermia, seek emergency medical help immediately and provide warm, dry clothing if available.

10. Ignoring The Need For Professional Medical Help

One of the most significant mistakes is failing to seek professional medical help when needed. Even if initial first aid is administered, some injuries or conditions require advanced medical treatment.

How to Avoid It:

Always call emergency services for serious injuries or conditions, such as severe bleeding, unconsciousness, or chest pain. Follow up with professional medical care to ensure that the injury or condition is properly treated and monitored.

By learning proper techniques and knowing when to seek professional help, you can significantly improve your ability to respond to emergencies and help those in need. World First Aid Day serves as a reminder of the importance of first aid education and preparedness. Taking the time to learn and practice first aid can make a life-saving difference when every second counts.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.