THE MYTHS & THE TRUTHS
Don't Let Myths Stop You from Acting in an Emergency
In life-threatening situations, every second counts. However, many people hesitate to perform CPR or control bleeding due to misconceptions they've heard, some of which could cost lives. We’re here to clear up the confusion and help you feel confident stepping in when it matters most. Remember, you can be the lifeline before help arrives.
June 2013 - Jan 2016
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The Myth: "I might hurt the person if I do CPR wrong!"
The Truth: Doing something is better than doing nothing. CPR maintains blood circulation until help arrives; without it, the chances of survival decrease. Chest compressions won’t harm an unresponsive person and could save their life!
The Myth: "CPR always brings people back."
The Truth: CPR significantly improves survival chances by maintaining the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain and heart until emergency responders arrive, potentially doubling or tripling survival rates in cases of cardiac arrest.
The Myth: "Only trained professionals should perform CPR."
The Truth: Anyone can assist with Hands-Only CPR (chest compressions) for sudden cardiac arrest in adults. A CPR class enhances your confidence and skills, but you don’t need to be a doctor to save a life!
The Myth: "If someone is breathing, they don’t need CPR."
The Truth: Someone gasping or struggling to breathe may still be in cardiac arrest. Check for normal breathing; if they aren’t breathing normally, begin chest compressions immediately.
The Myth: "I don’t want to do mouth-to-mouth on a stranger."
The Truth: In most cases, Hands-Only CPR (only compressions) is sufficient to maintain circulation until medical professionals arrive. Mouth-to-mouth is still necessary for drowning victims, infants, and children; however, compressions alone can be lifesaving.
The Myth: "I can break ribs giving CPR and make it worse."
The Truth: Rib fractures can occur during CPR, but saving a life is the top priority. Cracked ribs indicate high-quality compressions, which are preferable to stopping the heart. Health professionals agree: surviving with broken ribs is better than death without CPR.
The Myth: "Apply ice or soak the wound to stop bleeding."
The Truth: Ice won’t stop significant bleeding. Instead, apply firm, direct pressure with a clean bandage or cloth until the bleeding stops.
The Myth: "Tilt the head back for a nosebleed."
The Truth: Tilting the head back can cause blood to go into the throat, leading to choking or swallowing blood. Instead, lean forward slightly and pinch the nostrils for about 10 minutes.
The Myth: "If someone is bleeding heavily, wait for EMS."
The Truth: Act without delay! Severe bleeding can cause shock in just minutes. Apply direct pressure, use a tourniquet if necessary, and keep the injured person calm until help arrives.
The Myth: "Tourniquets are dangerous and should never be used."
The Truth: When used properly, tourniquets can save limbs and lives in instances of severe arterial bleeding, such as deep wounds or traumatic injuries. It is a life-saving tool, not a last resort.
The Myth: "You should only do the Heimlich maneuver if the person is unconscious."
The Truth: Administer the Heimlich maneuver when someone is conscious and choking, unable to breathe or speak. Delaying until the person is unconscious can decrease their chances of survival.
The Myth: "If someone is choking, they will always be able to speak or cough."
The Truth: A choking person may be unable to speak or cough. If they struggle to breathe, can’t make a sound, or clutch their throat, act immediately with the Heimlich maneuver to clear the airway.
BE THE LIFELINE BEFORE HELP ARRIVES
The best way to overcome fear and hesitation in an emergency is through training. In just a few hours, you can gain lifesaving skills that will prepare you to help in a crisis.