First Aid

The answer is "No!" to all three questions.

1. Do not apply an antiseptic (such as hydrogen peroxide) to minor cuts and scrapes. You would only delay the healing process. Hydrogen peroxide kills the germs in the cut, but it also kills the immune cells that rush to the wound. It is only necessary to wash the wound with soap and water so dirt is removed. Cover the wound with a sterile bandage.

2. Do not slap a choking person on the back. You may force the stuck object further down into the windpipe. Tell the person to cough out the object. That is the best way to forcefully dislodge it. If the person stops breathing, you should use abdominal thrusts on him or her. These thrusts are also known as the Heimlich maneuver.

3. Lastly, if you are helping a person who is overheated, do not apply rubbing alcohol to the skin in order to cool it down. Alcohol closes pores and makes it more difficult for the body to free the excess heat. Do not give the heat victim cold drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine, either. Rather, it is best to lead the person to a cool place, and give him or her cold water or sports drinks.

Resources:

WebMD has first aid tips for eye injuries and seizures, and suggests various items to pack in a car first aid kit.

KidsHealth has many first aid resources for parents. Learn new ways to protect your child inside the house and out, what to do in an emergency, how to stock a first-aid kit, where to call for help, and more.

The National Institutes of Health also have many first aid and emergency resources.

September 13, 2003