10 Popular First Aid Techniques that are Actually Harmful

Last Updated on January 7, 2021

Everyone should learn first aid techniques because there’s nothing more uncertain than the future, accidents can happen any time anywhere.

But following common advice can make things worse and you might end up killing someone instead of saving his or her life. Therefore, to help an injured person, you need to have enough knowledge of how to do it properly depending on their case.

To make things easier for you, start by avoiding these 10 common mistakes people make when offering first aid. Read on.

#10 – Applying a tourniquet immediately in case of severe bleeding

First, you need to secure the nearest artery to the wound in order to stop the bleeding. Then you should use sterile wipes to apply a compressive bandage. Deep wounds, however, should be stuffed with wipes and fixed with a bandaged tampon.

Keep in mind that a tourniquet can only be used if it’s an emergency. In this case, it should be applied to the skin on top of the wound, plus, it’s important to loosen it for about 15 minutes every hour while pressing the artery, and then, it should be tightened one more time for no more than half an hour.

#9 – Tilting the head back in case of a nosebleed

When dealing with a nosebleed, it’s best to sit down with the head slightly tipped forward to let the blood flow, then, use your fingers to put a little pressure on the soft part of the nose for up to 10 minutes. Not that the person must spit out the blood to avoid vomiting.

Also, cotton pads and tampons should be avoided unless the bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes. In this case, you need to call a doctor right away.

#8 – Rubbing with snow, oil, or Vaseline in case of hypothermia