First aid is an important skill that everyone should know. However, there are many misconceptions about first aid training, and it often stops people from taking the valuable courses. It’s time to set the record straight and clear up the misconceptions today.
Misconception 1 – First Aid is Only for Emergencies
This is one of the most common misconceptions about first aid. People believe that since first aid is only used in emergencies, it’s not necessary to learn unless you’re a doctor or nurse. The truth is that first aid can be used in a variety of situations – from minor cuts and scrapes to more serious injuries. It’s always better to be prepared and know what to do in an emergency.
While on your job or even out with friends, you never know when an accident may happen. It’s always better to be prepared with the proper first aid training.
Misconception 2 – First Aid is Only for Physical Injuries
First aid is not only for physical injuries – it can also be used for mental and emotional injuries. Every year, training providers offer specific courses to help people learn how to deal with mental health first aid. These courses are designed to provide participants with the skills and knowledge they need to support someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis.
Mental health first aid courses are becoming more popular as the stigma around mental illness continues to break down. These courses are open to everyone, and they can be a valuable way to learn how to support yourself and others through difficult times. Examples of mental health emergencies include anxiety attacks, panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm.
Misconception 3 – First Aid Courses are Expensive
The cost of first aid courses can vary depending on the provider, but they are generally very affordable. Most providers offer discounts for groups, so if you can get a group of friends or colleagues together, you can save even more money. Alternatively, it might be that you want to train your workers – if this is the case, a provider like Diamond Protection Training will help. They offer workplace-specific training that can be tailored to your needs, and they offer competitive rates.
Misconception 4 – First Aid is Only Necessary Once
Even if you’ve completed a first aid course once, this doesn’t mean that you’re set for life. First aid training is an ongoing process, and it’s important to refresh your skills regularly. Depending on the provider, you might be able to take a refresher course at a discounted rate.
Over time, treatments change, and new health conditions develop. By refreshing your first aid skills regularly, you can be confident that you’re up to date with the latest information. For example, mental health is a new field and who could have imagined the COVID pandemic not so long ago.
Benefits of First Aid Courses
Now that you’ve seen the misconceptions about first aid courses, let’s look at some of the benefits. Firstly, you can help yourself and others in an emergency (you could become somebody’s hero). First aid courses equip you with the skills and knowledge to deal with a variety of medical emergencies.
Another benefit of first aid training is that it can help you to feel more confident in yourself. When you know what to do in an emergency, you’ll feel more confident and capable; this can be a great asset in both your personal and professional life.
Finally, first aid training is often a requirement for certain jobs. If you’re looking to enter a career in the medical field, or if you’re already working in healthcare, you’ll likely need to complete a first aid course at some point.