Dr Chris Aminarh Tackles First Aid Myths

On the Big Convo, medical expert Dr Chris Aminarh delivered a sobering reality check in many emergencies, especially road accidents, well-meaning bystanders often do more harm than good.

As Ghana enters a busy travel period following Muslim festivities and approaching Easter celebrations, the conversation couldn’t be more timely.

Road traffic accidents remain a major concern, but according to Dr Aminarh, the real danger often begins after the crash.

Instead of providing proper assistance, bystanders frequently: move victims unnecessarily, attempt amateur medical interventions and focus on filming rather than helping.

Dr Aminarh shared some first-aid tips. 

1. Don’t Move Accident Victims: Unless there’s immediate danger like fire or explosion, do not remove a victim from a vehicle.

2. Don’t Remove Helmets: With the rise of motorbike (okada) use, this mistake is common. Helmets help stabilise the head and neck after impact. Removing them incorrectly can cause spinal damage, lead to paralysis

3. Don’t Give Food or Water to Unconscious Victims: Pouring water or forcing drinks into someone’s mouth can cause choking, block airways. The correct approach is to keep them awake and responsive through conversation.

4. Don’t “Fix” Broken or Dislocated Limbs: Trying to straighten a limb can tear nerves, cause permanent damage and leave positioning to trained professionals.

5. Don’t Ignore Small Wounds Minor cuts can: lead to infection and become life-threatening if untreated. Every injury matters.

6. Don’t Compromise Scene Safety: In chaotic accident scenes, helpers often become victims themselves. Proper response includes assigning roles, alerting oncoming traffic and avoiding overcrowding emergency lines.

7. Don’t Remove Embedded Objects: Objects like glass or metal may actually be preventing blood loss. 

Removing them can cause: rapid bleeding, death. Instead apply pressure around the wound.

The discussion highlighted a deeper problem: Many people even in large institutions, don’t know how to respond to emergencies.

Dr Aminarh stressed the need for first aid training in schools, workplace emergency drills and nationwide awareness campaigns

The takeaway is simple but powerful: In emergencies, what you don’t do can be just as important as what you do. 

As Culture Daily continues to educate and inform, this conversation serves as a critical reminder: good intentions are not enough, knowledge saves lives.