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First Aid · 5 min read · 2025-10-15

Dangerous First Aid Myths That Could Cost a Life

Dangerous First Aid Myths That Could Cost a Life

Misinformation travels fast on social media — these myths are still circulating in Australian homes

In the age of social media, first aid misinformation spreads faster than ever. RMIT FactLab and ABC Science have both addressed viral first aid claims that circulated on Australian platforms in 2024. Some of these myths are harmless wastes of time. Others actively cause harm or delay appropriate treatment. Here are the most dangerous ones — and what the evidence actually says.

Myth: Put Butter (or Toothpaste) on a Burn

This is perhaps the most persistent first aid myth in Australia. Butter, toothpaste, oil, egg white, and similar substances trap heat in the tissue, dramatically increasing the depth and severity of a burn. They also introduce bacteria into an open wound. The correct treatment for a burn is cool running water — not cold, not ice — for at least 20 minutes. Then cover loosely with a clean, non-fluffy material and seek medical review for any burn larger than a 20-cent coin or on the face, hands, or genitals.

Myth: Tilt the Head Back for a Nosebleed

Tilting the head back during a nosebleed causes blood to drain down the throat, which can trigger nausea, vomiting, and in large amounts, airway compromise. The correct position is sitting upright, leaning slightly forward, pinching the soft part of the nose firmly for 10–15 minutes without checking. Ice on the bridge of the nose can help. If bleeding doesn't stop after 30 minutes or follows a head injury, seek medical attention.

Myth: If He's Breathing, CPR Isn't Needed

Agonal breathing — irregular, gasping, or snoring-like breaths — is often mistaken for normal breathing and leads bystanders to withhold CPR. In fact, agonal breathing is a reflex that can occur in cardiac arrest even when the heart is not pumping effectively. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR. If you are unsure, the 000 dispatcher will guide you in real time.

Myth: Always Give Aspirin for Chest Pain

Aspirin can be beneficial in some types of heart attack by helping to prevent clot formation — but it is not appropriate for all chest pain. Aspirin is contraindicated if the person has a known aspirin allergy, has taken blood thinners, or if the chest pain is caused by something other than a heart attack (such as a pulmonary embolism, aortic dissection, or musculoskeletal pain). Unless the person has been prescribed aspirin for cardiac events and has it on hand, call 000 and let paramedics make the medication decision.

Where These Myths Come From

Most first aid myths originate from outdated advice that was once considered best practice, or from cultural knowledge passed down through families and communities. Others emerge from misapplication of clinical practices into lay settings. The best defence is staying current with nationally recognised first aid training. Horizon Training delivers evidence-based first aid courses aligned with Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines — the same guidelines used by paramedics and emergency nurses across the country.

Sources and further reading