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For first aid, many people follow the inaccurate information available online like sucking venom from snake bites or putting butter on the burn. No first aid instructor or doctor would suggest you do so. When you scramble to stop bleeding or make a burn feel better, knowing what you need to do can put the patient at ease. There are numerous myths about first aid that could make things worse like
Myth: Tilt Head Back to Stop Nosebleed
You might have heard that tilting your head back helps to stop the nosebleed. However, it is wrong because doing so would encourage the blood down in the body and result in the person swallowing or choking on blood. The right way to stop the bleeding is to pinch the nose as well as tilt forward. In case the blood continues to run for half an hour, ensure consult medical advice.
Myth: Do Not Move the Person with a Spinal Injury
In general, it is great advice. However, there are certain situations when a person with a spinal injury needs to be moved. For instance, in case the person is on a heavy traffic road or in life-threatening danger, it is crucial to move him/her to a safe place. In case that individual is vomiting or is unconscious, he/she must be placed in the recovery position carefully.
Myth: In Case Someone Choke on any Object, Try Removing that From Throat
People nearby might suggest you put your fingers down to remove the foreign object’s throat. However, doing this might push that object further down and block the airways. To remove the blockage, a combination of abdominal thrusts and back slaps could help.
Myth: Chest Compression Could be Harmful
Many people think that chest compression can be harmful. Rather, it is one of the crucial things that can help in maintaining the individual with cardiac arrest alive until emergency service takes over. DRABC (danger, response, airway, breathing, and circulation) or primary survey is the best way to fathom whether the casualty is breathing. In case you are unsure if the person breathing even after conducting DRABC, continue with the chest compressions.
Relying on first aid advice available online could put you or the casualty at risk. However, with proper First Aid Training, you can handle the situation and prevent that from getting worse. If you wish to take first aid responder training, First Aid Direct is the right place. They have a record of 24 years of delivering first aid and Manual Handling Courses in Dublin. They would help to get you certified.