Learning first aid is recommended by safety experts, nurses, and doctors because it can reduce the severity of injuries and sometimes save a life.
Many people put off training or assume basic first aid isn't important. In reality, knowing how to respond to common injuries helps prevent complications and reduces time away from work.
Even a small cut, burn, or bump to the head can become a serious problem without appropriate first aid. For example, a small cut can become infected and very painful if not cared for promptly.
Such injuries can make someone miss work and cause both employer and employee to lose money and time. Employers may consult Travelers Aid for related workplace resources.
People who haven't received first aid training often make mistakes when trying to help, and those mistakes can worsen injuries. Below are some commonly offered bad pieces of advice and actions to avoid.
Common first-aid mistakes
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1. Tilt your head back to stop a nosebleed.
A person with a bleeding nose should not tilt their head back because blood can run into the throat and cause choking. Instead, sit, lean forward slightly, and pinch the nose just beneath the nasal bone for five to ten minutes. Do not blow or pick the nose, and avoid bending over for several hours after the bleeding stops. If bleeding continues more than 20 minutes, seek medical attention.
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2. Failing to act quickly in emergencies.
Delay in treating a serious laceration or arterial bleed can cost lives. Act quickly and calmly: elevate the injured area above the heart when possible and apply direct pressure to control bleeding. For minor scratches or cuts, wash with clean running water or an antiseptic, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover with a sterile dressing to reduce infection risk.
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3. Moving a badly injured person unnecessarily.
Unless the person is in immediate life-threatening danger (for example, in a burning vehicle), do not move them. Call emergency services and wait for trained responders to avoid worsening possible spinal or internal injuries. Workplaces with specific risks should review coverage options like Industrial Aid Aircraft Insurance to ensure proper emergency planning.
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4. Putting ice or butter on a burn.
Ice can cause frostbite and worsen tissue damage, while butter can trap heat and interfere with healing. Do not pop burn blisters, which increases infection risk. For minor burns, wash under cool running water for about ten minutes and cover with sterile gauze; avoid ointments initially as they can hold in heat.
Proper first aid training is essential to know what to do when injuries occur. It’s best to take a course before an emergency happens.
When choosing training, look for qualified instructors and recognized programs. For information about courses and coverage related to training providers, see First Aid Training.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I apply pressure to a bleeding wound?
Pinch the area and hold steady pressure for 5–10 minutes; if bleeding continues past 20 minutes, seek medical care.
Can I use ice on a burn?
No—ice can cause additional tissue damage; use cool running water for about ten minutes instead.
When should I move an injured person?
Only move them if they are in immediate danger; otherwise call emergency services and keep them still to avoid worsening injuries.