Why should only qualified first aiders administer first aid?

Answer 1

Someone not adequately trained in proper first aid procedures can cause more damage with the best of intent if they do not know what they are doing.

Prime example: I responded to a full cardiac arrest (heart not beating) and the person on scene who "knew" CPR was doing compressions at the level of the xiphoid process (lower chest/upper abdomen) and not the sternum. This doesn't help circulation, and while the patient would probably have not survived regardless, this was more or less another nail in the coffin.

Answer 2

The Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 state that in order to provide first aid to employees who become injured or ill at work, employers must have adequate and appropriate training, equipment, facilities and personnel. Various regulations place an obligation on employers to assess risks and where necessary take action to eliminate or control the risks. Therefore only allowing trained personnel to carry out first aid.

Answer 3

Because someone who is unfamiliar with the ways in which you treat different injuries may do the wrong thing when faced with the situation and cause further problems and injuries rather than help.

Answer 4

Generally only trained people should do a certain task. For example, driving a car should only be done by people licensed to do so. While there are people that can do it untrained, it increases the risk of something going wrong.

Answer 5

explain why it is important for emergency first aid tasks only to be carried out by qualified first aiders.

Answer 6

Things like fishhook puncture wounds. Spinal injuries as well.

Answer 7

Because a person who is not qualified to give first-aid - might do more harm than good !