What You Really Need to Know

First aid in the workplace is vital, but there are so many myths surrounding it. Here are some of the most persistent misconceptions out there, along with why working with a trusted training provider for an emergency first aid course is so important.

You Need to Be a Medical Professional to Perform First Aid

Many people assume that to be a first aider, you need to have undergone extensive medical training. In fact, workplace first aid training has been designed for non-medical individuals and focuses on immediate, practical responses to a wide range of issues. Of course, an ambulance should always be called in the event of an emergency, but first aid training is there to give you the skills to keep things under control until professional help arrives – whether that’s delivering CPR or treating a cut or burn.

Calling 999 Is Enough

Some employees believe that simply calling 999 is all they need to do in an emergency. While ambulance teams will try to respond as quickly as possible, the first few minutes are often crucial in preventing an entry from worsening – or, in the most serious cases, death. The wait for an ambulance can sometimes be longer than you were anticipating, and having solid first aid skills to draw upon gives the person needing help the best possible chance.

You Should Move an Injured Person to Make Them More Comfortable

It is a common misconception that moving an injured person to a more comfortable position is always beneficial. After all, you don’t wait for them to be in any more pain than they are! However, moving someone, especially if you don’t know which kind of injury they have suffered, can cause further harm. Unless it is dangerous to keep them where they are, an injured person should remain still until an ambulance arrives. A first aid course will cover this in detail.

First Aid Kits Are Only for Serious Injuries

Many believe that first aid kits are only useful for serious emergencies. However, these kits have everything you need to treat minor cuts and burns, both of which can be very common in the workplace. So don’t let that kit gather dust, and make sure that it is well-stocked and that all employees know where it is and what it contains. A great first aid course will tell you how to use some of the items commonly found in a workplace first aid kit.

All First Aid Courses Are The Same

It’s easy to assume that all first aid training is the same, but finding a great provider who offers courses that are specific to your industry can make all the difference. For example, first aid for construction workers will focus on injuries that can be caused by machinery. So be sure that the training you are paying for is appropriate for your team and ask for recommendations from those in your industry for providers that can best meet your needs.

What Now?

Workplace first aid myths are so widespread, but we hope this guide has cleared some up for you! Now you know just how important good training can be, why not get in touch with a trusted provider today?