Emergency Response Myths: Actions that could do more Harm than Good

When responding to an emergency, many things may go through the head of a bystander. The nature of a medical emergency means that immediate action is required, sometimes by an untrained layperson.

In this blog, we will break down some common myths around specific medical issues which may actually do more harm than good, as well as the action that should be taken instead.

‘Someone with a nosebleed should tilt their head back’

This is often suggested to someone with a nosebleed in the hopes that it will stop the bleeding, but tilting the head back during a nosebleed may cause blood to flow down the throat instead - potentially leading to choking or vomiting.

Instead, someone with a nosebleed should be sat down, leaning slightly forward. Then the soft part of the nose below the bridge should be pinched for around 15 minutes to stop the bleeding.

‘Put something in the mouth of someone having a seizure’

A common worry is that someone may swallow their tongue or damage the inside of their mouth by biting down while seizing. Instead, ensure the person is safe by clearing the area around them of harmful objects. Do not restrain them.

Once the seizure ends, roll them onto their side in the recovery position and check for breathing. Seek medical help if it’s their first seizure or lasts longer than five minutes.

‘Use butter or oil to soothe burns’

Applying butter, oil or similar substances to a burn can actually trap heat in the skin, worsening the burn. It can also introduce infection.

A burn should be held under cool or lukewarm running water for at least 20 minutes to cool the affected area. Cover it with a clean, non-fluffy dressing or cling film and seek medical advice if the burn is severe.

‘Remove objects that are stuck in a wound’

Removing foreign objects such as glass from a cut or wound can actually cause bleeding to worsen or cause further damage.

Instead, you should leave the object in place and stabilise it using gauze or cloth before immediately seeking medical attention.

‘Slap someone on the back if they’re choking’

This one is half correct, back blows do form a key role in dealing with a choking person but other steps must be taken first. The casualty should first be encouraged to cough as this can clear the obstruction.
If coughing does not clear the obstruction, the casualty should be leant forward before delivering any blows to the back as performing these while standing up straight can actually cause the obstruction to go further into the airway.

The vibration created by back blows will often be enough to clear the obstruction; if it isn’t, abdominal thrusts should be given. These are performed by wrapping one’s arms around the casualty’s waist from behind and pulling inwards sharp and hard.

‘Coughing during a heart attack could save someone’s life’

‘Cough CPR’ is a common myth claiming that someone can keep themselves alive during a heart attack by coughing vigorously. Coughing could potentially help if someone is suffering an arrhythmia, but this is different to a heart attack.

If someone is suffering a suspected heart attack, they should be sat down and given aspirin to chew slowly if they are not allergic. They should be kept comfortable until emergency services arrive.

Be prepared to perform CPR if the casualty falls unconscious or becomes unresponsive and stops breathing as a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest.

Get the right information with Imperative Training

Ensure that you and your team are prepared to respond correctly in a medical emergency at work by completing one of our TQUK accredited First Aid at Work courses.

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