4 Debunked First-Aid Myths That People Still Believe

Your friend accidentally hits his nose, causing it to bleed. He leans his head back, thinking it’ll stop the flow. When you try to correct him, he says, “Everyone knows you’re supposed to tilt your head back.”

FIRST AID FOR A NOSE BLEED

That used to be the common remedy for a nosebleed, even though it was potentially harmful. That blood has to go somewhere, and if it isn’t coming out of your nostrils, it’s pooling down your throat — which can cause nausea or vomiting or can obstruct your airway.

Instead of tilting your head back, sit up, lean slightly forward, pinch the soft part of your nose firmly yet gently and apply a cold wet cloth.

FIRST AID FOR SNAKEBITES

First aid for nosebleeds isn’t the only issue people often get wrong. You might have seen old Western movies where someone sucks the venom out of a snakebite. But for a snakebite from a venomous snake, get the victim to advanced medical care as soon as possible. For a nonvenomous bite, you can treat it like any other wound.

FIRST AID FOR A BLACK EYE

Another myth is that you should place a cold steak on a black eye. However, this could introduce bacteria; instead, apply a wrapped ice pack or package of frozen vegetables to the injured eye. Wrapping the ice pack or veggies helps prevent skin tissue damage.

FIRST AID FOR CUTS AND SCRAPES

First aid for cuts and scrapes used to include disinfecting the area with hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol. While these substances can clean the wound, they can also kill healthy cells and slow healing. Instead, clean the area with soap and water. Apply triple antibiotic ointment if the person isn’t allergic or sensitive to the medication, and then cover it with an adhesive bandage.