Top 5 Myths of First Aid (And What You Should Really Do)

Whether you’ve seen first aid in action on TV or heard advice passed around at a weekend BBQ, there are plenty of common myths that could do more harm than good.

At Paramount First Aid, we’re here to help bust those myths and teach everyday Australians how to respond to emergencies with skill and confidence.

Led by an experienced paramedic, our first aid training is grounded in real-world experience and current Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines. In every first aid course we run, we help people gain the skills to save lives, not just repeat outdated advice.

Here are five of the most common first aid myths—and what you should do instead.

Myth #1: “You should tilt your head back during a nosebleed.”

Nose Bleed First Aid

The truth: Tilting your head back during a nosebleed is dangerous—it can cause blood to run down the throat, which may lead to nausea, coughing, or vomiting. It also makes it harder to estimate how much blood is being lost.

What to do instead: Lean the person forward and pinch the soft part of the nose just below the bridge. Maintain pressure for at least 10 minutes (or up to 20 minutes if it's a hot day or after exercise). Seek medical help if the bleeding doesn’t stop.

📚 Reference: Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC), First Aid Management for Bleeding

Myth #2: “Put butter or toothpaste on a burn.”

Burns First Aid

The truth: This is one of the oldest and most harmful myths. Applying substances like butter, oil, toothpaste or ice can trap heat, worsen the injury, and increase the risk of infection.

What to do instead: Run cool (not icy) water over the burn for at least 20 minutes. Remove any tight clothing or jewellery near the area if safe to do so. Seek professional medical help for larger or more severe burns.

📚 Reference: HealthDirect – Burns and Scalds | ARC Guidelines

Myth #3: “You can suck out the venom from a snakebite.”

The truth: Cutting or sucking a snakebite doesn’t help and may worsen the situation. Venom spreads through the lymphatic system—not the bloodstream—so sucking it out or washing the wound can do more harm than good.

What to do instead: Use the Pressure Immobilisation Technique (PIT). Keep the person as still as possible, apply a firm bandage starting at the bite site and moving upwards, and immobilise the limb with a splint. Call 000 immediately.

Reference: Australian Resuscitation Council, Snakebite First Aid Guidelines

Myth #4: “If someone is having a seizure, hold them down or put something in their mouth.”

The truth: Trying to restrain someone having a seizure can cause injury. Putting something in their mouth may lead to choking, damage to teeth, or injury to the jaw.

What to do instead: Clear the area of any hazards, place something soft under their head, and wait for the seizure to pass. Once it’s safe, roll them onto their side to assist breathing and monitor until help arrives.

Reference: Epilepsy Action Australia, Seizure First Aid

(H2) Myth #5: “Only medical professionals need to know first aid.”

The truth: Emergencies don’t wait for an ambulance. Bystanders are often the first people on the scene, whether at home, in the workplace, or out in public. Knowing CPR and first aid can save a life.

What to do instead: Take a first aid course. Even basic training can give you the confidence and knowledge to respond in an emergency—whether that’s starting CPR, treating bleeding, or helping a choking child.

Reference: ARC, The Importance of Bystander Intervention

Why Proper First Aid Training Matters

There’s a huge difference between knowing what not to do and being trained in what to do.

Attending a recognised first aid course empowers you to act calmly, effectively, and safely when it really matters.

According to the ARC, quality first aid and CPR training increases bystander intervention rates and improves patient outcomes in emergencies. That’s why we believe training is for everyone, not just healthcare workers.

Our Training Options at Paramount First Aid

At Paramount First Aid, we make training simple, hands-on, and backed by experience. We offer:

• Nationally Recognised First Aid Courses – Including HLTAID011 Provide First Aid and HLTAID009 Provide CPR, perfect for staff needing workplace compliance or anyone wanting core lifesaving skills.

• Non-Accredited Baby & Child First Aid Classes – Tailored for new parents, grandparents, and carers. These classes are short, practical, and great for busy families.

• First Aid Awareness Sessions – Ideal for community groups, sporting clubs, and schools who want life-saving knowledge without needing a certificate.

Why Choose Paramount First Aid?

Founded by Leah Collins, a qualified paramedic with over six years on the road across NSW and the ACT, Paramount First Aid brings professionalism, practicality, and a personal touch to every course.

We specialise in first aid and CPR first aid training for real people. Whether you’re a new parent, teacher, tradesperson, or team leader, you’ll leave our courses feeling ready to take action.

Ready to ditch the myths and learn real first aid?

Visit paramountfirstaid.com.au or email leah@paramountfirstaid.com.au to book your first aid course today.