As we go about our daily lives, the chances of witnessing an accident or medical emergency may be low, but they are never zero. It could be someone choking in a cafeteria, a passerby spraining their ankle while crossing the street, a construction worker falling from a height, or someone losing consciousness due to extreme heat.

In moments like these, our instinct to help often kicks in. However, well-intentioned help can sometimes do more harm than good if we respond without fully understanding what to do. While first aid is essential in emergencies, it’s equally important to recognize and avoid common mistakes that could compromise recovery or worsen the injury.

6 Most Common First Aid Mistakes You Should Know

1. Failing to Call Emergency Services Immediately

When an emergency occurs in a public setting, it’s common for bystanders to be just as shocked and unsure as the person in need. People often hesitate to call for help—sometimes out of fear that they might be overreacting, or because they assume someone else will do it. Others may try to handle the situation themselves, believing it will save time. The best response is to stay calm and contact emergency services immediately before attempting any first aid.

2. Providing Improper Wound Care

People often rush to treat bleeding without fully understanding the correct approach, sometimes acting on impulse. Many rely on common misconceptions, such as pouring hydrogen peroxide or alcohol directly onto a wound to sanitize and even blowing it to help it dry. Others mistakenly use fibrous materials like cotton or tissue directly on the fresh wound. While these actions may seem helpful, they can actually irritate tissues, introduce bacteria, and increase the risk of infection.

Proper wound care starts with washing your hands thoroughly or wearing gloves if available. Gently rinse the wound with clean water to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using strong antiseptics unless specifically advised by a medical professional. After cleaning, cover the wound with a sterile dressing or clean cloth to protect it from contamination. Seek professional medical attention if the wound is deep, does not stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection or increased severity.

Another serious mistake is attempting to remove embedded objects. Doing so can increase bleeding or worsen injury. Instead, apply firm pressure around the wound using a clean cloth or bandage, elevate the injured area if possible, and keep it still. If an object is embedded, stabilize it in place and wait for professional help to arrive. This approach prevents further damage and improves the chances of a safe recovery.

3. Incorrect CPR Technique

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can make the difference between life and death, especially in cases of cardiac arrest. But when performed incorrectly, it can lead to fractured ribs, internal injuries, or simply be ineffective. A common mistake is failing to follow the correct rhythm or applying compressions that are too shallow or too forceful.

If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call Triple Zero (000) and begin CPR immediately. The recommended compression rate is 100 to 120 compressions per minute, at a depth of about one-third of the chest (roughly 5cm in adults). If you're trained in CPR, alternate 30 compressions with 2 rescue breaths. If not, continue with hands-only CPR until help arrives. Always ensure the person is lying flat on a firm surface and minimise interruptions during compressions.

Getting CPR training through an accredited course is the best way to prepare yourself to respond with confidence and accuracy during a crisis.

4. Moving the Injured Person Unnecessarily

It’s natural to want to assist someone who’s fallen or collapsed, but moving them without proper assessment can sometimes worsen their injuries—especially in cases involving potential spinal trauma, head injury, or fractures. Shifting someone with a suspected spinal injury, for example, could lead to permanent damage or paralysis.

Unless the person is in immediate danger (such as from fire, traffic, or a collapsing structure), avoid moving them. Keep them still, offer reassurance, and wait for emergency responders. If they must be moved, ensure their head, neck, and spine are supported in alignment, and that the movement is as controlled and minimal as possible.

5. Mismanaging Choking Situations

When someone is choking, panic can set in quickly. A frequent error is slapping the person on the back while they’re still upright and coughing, or—even worse—trying to offer them water. This can potentially make the blockage worse.

If the person is coughing forcefully, encourage them to continue doing so. If they can’t cough, speak, or breathe, perform up to five back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If this doesn’t work, follow up with five chest thrusts. Alternate between the two until the obstruction is cleared or emergency help arrives. For children or infants, modified techniques should be used—another reason why formal training is crucial.

6. Using Heat for Sprains or Strains

Reaching for a hot pack may feel comforting after a muscle injury, but applying heat too early can actually increase swelling and prolong recovery. Heat encourages blood flow, which is the last thing you want in the immediate aftermath of a sprain or strain.

Instead, follow the RICER approach during the first 48 to 72 hours:
Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and Referral.
Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel to the injured area for 15–20 minutes every 2–3 hours. After the swelling subsides, heat therapy can be considered to relax muscles and improve mobility.

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Just Willing

Being a helpful bystander during emergencies is admirable, but it takes more than good intentions to truly make a difference. Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. That’s why proper first aid training is not just valuable—it’s essential.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, tradie, or just someone who wants to be ready when it matters most, enrolling in a certified first aid course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to respond confidently and safely.

Ready to gain the skills to respond with confidence? Join our First Aid Course in Wagga Wagga and get certified by local experts today!