Common First Aid Myths and What You Should Really Do

First aid is all about helping someone in an emergency, but not everything you’ve heard over the years is actually helpful. Some widely circulated tips—from movies, TV, or word of mouth—can cause more harm than good.

At Northern Nevada CPR, we provide AHA-approved First Aid and CPR training in Reno and Northern Nevada, teaching parents, caregivers, teachers, and community members how to respond correctly in real emergencies.

Dangerous First Aid Myths You Should Stop Believing

Myth #1: “You Should Suck Out Snake Venom”

Reality: Don’t attempt it.

Sucking venom doesn’t remove enough to help and can spread infection or worsen the bite. Instead, keep the person calm and still, keep the bite below heart level, and call 911 immediately.

Myth #2: “Put Butter on a Burn”

Reality: Butter, oils, or lotions trap heat and increase infection risk.

For burns, run cool (not cold) water for 10–20 minutes and cover lightly with a sterile bandage.

Myth #3: “Put Something in a Person’s Mouth During a Seizure”

Reality: Never insert objects—it can cause choking or injury.

Instead, clear the area, support their head with something soft, time the seizure, and call 911 if it lasts more than 5 minutes or is their first seizure.

Myth #4: “Tilt Your Head Back During a Nosebleed”

Reality: Tilting back can cause blood to run down the throat, causing nausea or choking.

Lean forward slightly, pinch the soft part of the nose for 10–15 minutes, breathe through the mouth, and remain upright.

Myth #5: “Alcohol Warms Up a Hypothermic Person”

Reality: Alcohol dilates blood vessels and accelerates heat loss.

Warm hypothermic individuals with blankets, dry clothing, and warm drinks, never alcohol.

Myth #6: “Induce Vomiting if Someone Ingests Poison”

Reality: Vomiting can cause further harm, especially with corrosive substances.

Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.) or emergency services, and follow professional guidance before giving food or drink.

Myth #7: “CPR Always Brings People Back to Life Like in the Movies”

Reality: CPR doesn’t guarantee survival—it keeps blood flowing to the brain and organs until help arrives.

It can double or triple survival chances during cardiac arrest but is not a magical fix.

Myth #8: “If You Can Move It, It’s Not Broken”

Reality: Many fractures can still move.

Pain, swelling, and bruising are better indicators. Immobilize the limb and seek medical evaluation.

Why First Aid Training Matters

Misinformation is easy to pick up from media or friends, but in real emergencies, facts save lives. Certified first aid courses teach the correct response for:

• Burns, cuts, and fractures

• Seizures and fainting

• Cardiac arrest and CPR

• Choking and allergic reactions

Conclusion

Knowing first aid isn’t enough—you must know the right first aid. By separating myth from fact, you can respond confidently and effectively when someone needs help.

At Northern Nevada CPR, our hands-on First Aid and CPR training in Reno and Northern Nevada equips you with the life-saving skills you need for real emergencies.

Contact Northern Nevada CPR today to schedule a First Aid course and learn how to act safely and effectively in any emergency.