Common First Aid Mistakes to Avoid

When an emergency strikes, knowing basic first aid can save lives. However, good intentions aren’t always enough. Without proper training, well-meaning actions can sometimes make injuries worse. Northern Nevada CPR in Reno provides certified CPR and First Aid courses to help you respond effectively, confidently, and safely.

Here are some of the most common first aid mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Tilting the Head Back During a Nosebleed

• Mistake: Tilting the head backward to stop bleeding.

• Why it’s wrong: Blood runs down the throat, causing nausea, coughing, or vomiting.

• Correct method: Have the person sit upright, lean slightly forward, and pinch the soft part of the nose for 10–15 minutes.

2. Removing Objects Embedded in a Wound

• Mistake: Pulling out glass, knives, or foreign objects.

• Why it’s wrong: Can worsen bleeding or damage internal structures.

• Correct method: Stabilize the object with clean cloth or bandages and seek emergency care immediately.

3. Using Butter or Ice on Burns

• Mistake: Applying butter, toothpaste, or ice to cool burns.

• Why it’s wrong: These can trap heat or cause frostbite on damaged skin.

• Correct method: Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 10–20 minutes and cover with a sterile, non-stick bandage.

4. Not Calling 911 Immediately

• Mistake: Trying to manage the situation alone before calling for help.

• Why it’s wrong: Delays in cardiac arrest, stroke, or major trauma reduce survival chances.

• Correct method: Call 911 immediately for unconsciousness, heavy bleeding, chest pain, stroke, seizure, or trouble breathing.

5. Improper CPR Technique

• Mistake: Shallow compressions, inconsistent rhythm, or skipping breaths incorrectly.

• Why it’s wrong: Ineffective CPR may fail to circulate blood to vital organs.

• Correct method: Take a certified CPR course and follow push hard, push fast—at least 2 inches deep, 100–120 compressions per minute.

6. Using the Wrong Heimlich Maneuver

• Mistake: Performing adult abdominal thrusts on infants or small children.

• Why it’s wrong: Can cause injury in infants and smaller children.

• Correct method: For infants under 1 year, use back slaps and chest thrusts. For children over 1, use modified abdominal thrusts taught in certified courses.

7. Failing to Protect Yourself First

• Mistake: Jumping in without checking for dangers (traffic, fire, or infectious hazards).

• Why it’s wrong: You could become another victim or transmit infection.

• Correct method: Always assess the scene, ensure safety, and use gloves or barriers if available.

8. Misjudging Allergic Reactions

• Mistake: Underestimating signs of anaphylaxis or delaying epinephrine use.

• Why it’s wrong: Anaphylaxis can be fatal within minutes.

• Correct method: Administer an EpiPen immediately if there is swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives, and call 911.

Conclusion

In first aid, mistakes can cause more harm than good. The best way to avoid them is through proper training. Northern Nevada CPR in Reno offers certified First Aid and CPR courses that equip you with the knowledge and confidence to act quickly—and correctly—in any emergency. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.

Learn more and sign up for courses at northernnevadacpr.com