5 Common First Aid Errors for Beginners and How to Avoid Them

Whether that’s because we’ve shaken off those skills over time or simply remain ignorant of the health risks around us, everyone can benefit from a little reminder, especially if you’ve been given new responsibilities at home.

You may not be diving into dangerous situations every day, but accidents are part of life. Have you given thought to what you would do if you were the first responder?

We’re happy to be here for you. In this article, we’re sharing common first aid errors for beginners and how you can avoid them!

Read on!

  1. Putting Butter or Ice on a Burn

Common first aid errors for beginners and how to avoid them pertain to the topic of applying butter or ice on a burn. One of the biggest mistakes is not ensuring the object is suitable to be applied.

Typically, butter should not be applied, as it can further damage the skin. Ice should not be applied directly to the skin but rather through a thin material like cloth. This can cause further damage, and instead, medical attention should be sought.

With that being said, safely removing any debris or articles of clothing by using a first aid kit from the burn is vital. If the wrong approach is taken, it will just cause more harm than help.

  1. Moving a Seriously Injured Person

Moving an injured person without careful assessment can cause further types of injuries. Assessing a person’s condition is an important step before deciding whether to move them.

It is also important to check for any foreign objects inside the body before attempting to move a seriously injured person.

  1. Putting Heat on a Sprain or Fracture

Heat dilates the blood vessels and increases swelling and inflammation, while reduced circulation within the injured tissue causes pain. As such, it’s best to avoid putting heat on a sprain or fracture.

Rather, you should apply cold to reduce inflammation. Cold relieves pain, reduces swelling and bleeding, and slows metabolic activity in the damaged area in order to reduce further damage.

  1. Spitting on a Cut

Common first aid errors for beginners include not calling 911 immediately when needed, not properly cleaning and disinfecting wounds, and spitting on a cut.

Though old wives’ tales tell us that spitting on a wound initiates coagulation, it is not recommended or effective. Many people assume that spitting on a cut may help stem the blood flow; however, applying direct pressure is more effective.

  1. Using Rubbing Alcohol for Fever

Rubbing alcohol can be very dangerous when applied to the skin and can cause serious harm if not applied properly. Beginners should avoid using rubbing alcohol for fever because it can dehydrate the body and can be very painful when applied to the skin.

Instead of using rubbing alcohol, a damp cloth with cool water should be used to help cool down the body temperature. This is a much safer and less painful option than using rubbing alcohol.

For more knowledge about first aid, you should get a certificate from https://cprcertificationnow.com/products/cpr-aed-first-aid-certification-online.

Guidelines for Avoiding First Aid Errors for Beginners

Understanding first aid errors for beginners is important for everyone, especially beginners. While it is impossible to predict and anticipate each situation, being aware of these five mistakes can go a long way in providing the best care to someone in need.

With practice, anyone can become a knowledgeable first aid provider. Stay safe and take the worry out of first aid – sign up for a first aid course today!

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