You sure you’re doing First Aid right?
Below are common Do’s and Don’ts in First Aid
Don’t Lean Back for Nosebleeds
Tilting your head back sends the blood down your throat, which could irritate your stomach or even choke you. Better to sit down and lean forward just slightly. Don’t lie down, and keep your head above your heart to slow the bleeding.
Don’t Butter Your Burns
Greasy ointments, including butter, can seal in the heat. Plus these ointments might trap in bacteria that cause infection. Instead, run cool, not icy, water over your burn for no more but no less than 20 minutes.
It is important to seek immediate medical advice if your burn is larger than a 20 cent coin, is on the face, hands, groin or feet, is deep or infected or is caused by chemicals or electricity.
Don’t Apply Heat on Frozen Hands
Frostbitten or frozen skin can burn at temperatures that may normally be comfortable. To thaw an area affected by frostbite apply warm towels or immerse the area in circulating warm water. It should feel warm, not hot, to a person or a body part that isn’t frozen. Seek professional help immediately.
Don’t Remove Embedded Objects
You can probably take out a splinter on your own. But if something larger such as a needle, fishhook, or pencil is stuck deep in your skin, it’s best to let a doctor remove it.
If the site is sore, red, or if you suspect it’s infected, seek assistance. In the meantime, stop any serious bleeding by placing padding around or above and below the object and apply pressure over the pads. Take care not to push down the embedded object even deeper.
Don’t Remove Gauze on Deep Wounds
Even if the cloth is blood soaked, it’s better to leave it and to add more gauze on top and keep up direct pressure on the wound. Taking off the dressing could disturb the blood clots that help seal the bleeding. This is especially important if you’re trying to stop the blood flow on a new wound.
Don’t Rub an Injured Eye
If something feels stuck in your eye, blink to try to flush it out. You can also rinse with saline or contact solution or tap water. Don’t attempt to pull out an object or use any medication. If necessary, tape the bottom of a paper cup around the eye to protect it.
