Top 10 First Aid Mistakes People Make (and What to Do Instead)

Whether you're at work, at home, or enjoying the outdoors in British Columbia, emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Many people want to help during a medical emergency, but common first aid mistakes can sometimes make the situation worse.

Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Here are the top 10 first aid mistakes people make—and the correct way to respond.

1. Tilting Someone's Head Back During a Nosebleed

One of the most common first aid myths is telling someone to lean their head back during a nosebleed.

❌ Mistake:

Leaning the head backward causes blood to run down the throat, which can lead to coughing, nausea, or vomiting.

✅ Do This Instead:

• Sit upright.

• Lean slightly forward.

• Pinch the soft part of the nose continuously for 10–15 minutes.

• Avoid checking too early to see if the bleeding has stopped.

2. Moving Someone After a Serious Fall

If someone has fallen from a height, been in a vehicle collision, or suffered a significant injury, moving them could worsen a spinal injury.

❌ Mistake:

Helping them stand up immediately.

✅ Do This Instead:

Only move the person if they're in immediate danger (such as a fire or traffic). Otherwise:

• Keep them still.

• Call 911.

• Monitor their breathing until help arrives.

3. Putting Ice Directly on a Burn

Ice may seem like it would cool a burn faster, but it can actually damage already injured skin.

❌ Mistake:

Applying ice, butter, toothpaste, or oils.

✅ Do This Instead:

• Cool the burn under cool (not icy) running water for at least 20 minutes.

• Cover it with a clean, dry, non-stick dressing.

• Seek medical attention for larger or more severe burns.

4. Removing an Object Stuck in a Wound

Seeing something embedded in a wound can be alarming, but pulling it out can cause severe bleeding.

❌ Mistake:

Removing knives, metal, glass, or other embedded objects.

✅ Do This Instead:

• Leave the object in place.

• Apply pressure around the wound—not directly on the object.

• Stabilize it with bulky dressings.

• Call emergency medical services immediately.

5. Forgetting to Call for Help Early

People often spend too much time trying to solve the problem themselves before calling for emergency assistance.

❌ Mistake:

Waiting until the person's condition worsens.

✅ Do This Instead:

Call 911 immediately if someone is:

• Unconscious

• Not breathing normally

• Having chest pain

• Experiencing signs of a stroke

• Suffering severe bleeding

• Having a seizure that lasts longer than five minutes or repeated seizures

Early activation of emergency services can save lives.

6. Not Using an AED Because You're Afraid

Many bystanders hesitate to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), worrying they'll do something wrong.

❌ Mistake:

Waiting for paramedics to arrive.

✅ Do This Instead:

Turn the AED on and follow its voice prompts. Modern AEDs are designed for the public and will only deliver a shock if one is needed.

The sooner CPR and an AED are used, the greater the chance of survival during sudden cardiac arrest.

7. Stopping CPR Too Soon

CPR is physically demanding, and people often stop because they're unsure whether they're doing it correctly.

❌ Mistake:

Stopping after a minute or two.

✅ Do This Instead:

Continue CPR until:

• An AED is ready.

• Emergency responders take over.

• The person begins breathing normally.

• You are physically unable to continue.

Even imperfect CPR is far better than no CPR.

8. Giving Food or Water to Someone Who May Need Surgery

After a serious injury, it may seem comforting to offer food or water.

❌ Mistake:

Giving drinks or snacks after major trauma.

✅ Do This Instead:

Keep the person comfortable but avoid giving anything to eat or drink unless directed by medical professionals.

9. Ignoring Minor Cuts and Wounds

Small cuts may seem harmless, but they can become infected if not cleaned properly.

❌ Mistake:

Putting a bandage on without cleaning the wound.

✅ Do This Instead:

• Wash your hands if possible.

• Rinse the wound with clean water.

• Stop the bleeding with gentle pressure.

• Apply a clean dressing or bandage.

• Watch for signs of infection.

10. Assuming You Don't Need First Aid Training

Many people believe they'll "figure it out" during an emergency.

❌ Mistake:

Relying on internet videos or outdated information.

✅ Do This Instead:

Take an accredited first aid course and refresh your skills regularly. Hands-on practice builds confidence and helps you respond quickly when seconds matter.

Whether you need training for work, recreation, or your family, learning first aid is one of the most valuable skills you can have.

Why First Aid Training Matters

Emergencies are stressful, and it's easy to make mistakes when you're unsure what to do. Professional first aid training teaches you how to stay calm, assess the situation, and provide safe, effective care until emergency services arrive.

At Provincial First Aid, our instructors provide hands-on, practical training that prepares you for real-life emergencies. We offer:

• Emergency First Aid

• Standard First Aid

• CPR & AED

• Basic Life Support (BLS)

• Emergency Medical Responder (EMR)

• Workplace and group training throughout British Columbia

Whether you're meeting WorkSafeBC requirements or simply want to protect your family, proper training gives you the confidence to act when it matters most.

Train With Confidence at Provincial First Aid

First aid isn't just about knowing what to do—it's about avoiding common mistakes that could put someone at greater risk.

If it's been a few years since your last course, now is the perfect time to refresh your skills.

Contact Provincial First Aid today to register for an upcoming course or schedule on-site workplace training. Being prepared could save a life.