Do you think you know a lot about first aid? You might be wrong. Many outdated ideas about CPR and common myths at work can leave you unprepared in emergencies. Misconceptions like “only healthcare workers need training” or “you need a first aid kit to help” stop people from taking action when someone needs urgent help. By correcting these myths, you can learn real skills that help you act confidently, whether at home with your family, assisting a coworker, or witnessing an emergency in public.
1. Myth: You Only Need First Aid Training If You Work in Healthcare
Reality: Many people think only doctors and nurses need to know first aid, but this idea is outdated. Emergencies can happen anywhere and to anyone.
Whether you’re at home with kids, on public transport, or working in a store, someone might need urgent help before paramedics arrive. Knowing first aid can make you a life-saving hero. At Training 22, our First Aid at Work Course is designed for all types of workers, giving everyone the skills to handle a crisis.
More organisations now require staff to have first aid training because of growing public awareness and safety regulations. It’s not just about following the law; it’s about being responsible and ready to help when needed.
2. Myth: Calling 999 Is Enough in an Emergency
Reality: Always call 999 in an emergency, but what you do while waiting for help can be crucial. If you see someone collapse from cardiac arrest, waiting without acting could be deadly. Performing CPR or using a defibrillator can greatly increase their chances of survival. Our Level 3 EFAW Training in London teaches you essential skills to act while emergency services are on the way.
We focus on real-life situations in our training, so you not only learn what to do but also feel confident doing it. Every second matters, and being trained means you’ll never feel helpless during an emergency.
3. Myth: First Aid Training Is Too Complicated
Many people skip first aid courses because they worry about complicated medical terms or procedures. However, modern training is straightforward and practical.
Our One Day First Aid at Work Course in London is easy to access. Whether you’re 18 or 68, you will learn life-saving skills through demonstrations, group discussions, and hands-on practise. We simplify the information into clear steps, so even beginners can feel confident afterwards.
Participants often say the sessions are engaging and empowering. You don’t need a medical background, just a willingness to help others and some time.
4. Myth: You Can’t Perform First Aid Without Equipment
Reality: First aid kits and AEDs are useful, but you don’t need them to provide effective help. Your hands, brain, and calmness are your best tools in an emergency.
Whether it’s placing someone in the recovery position or doing CPR, having basic knowledge and taking action is what counts. Our Emergency Workplace First Aid London course teaches learners to think creatively and respond effectively with what they have, like using a scarf as a bandage or applying pressure with their hands.
You don’t need fancy tools; you need the right mindset and training to handle unexpected situations.
5. Myth: Once You’re Trained, You’re Set for Life
Reality: Skills can get rusty. Just like driving, cooking, or learning a new language, first aid skills need regular practise to stay sharp. Old knowledge can be harmful.
The HSE recommends renewing certification every three years, but many professionals prefer to refresh their skills each year. At Training 22, we provide HSE-approved first Aid Courses in London to help individuals and businesses stay compliant and skilled.
Refresher training builds confidence and updates you on any new protocols. This ensures your emergency response is accurate, timely, and follows the law.
6. Myth: First Aid Training Doesn’t Cover Children’s Emergencies
Reality: It’s a mistake to assume that general first aid is enough for children and infants. Paediatric emergencies need different methods because children’s bodies are different.
For example, CPR on an infant uses different hand positions, breath amounts, and compression depths. Our Paediatric First Aid Training teaches these important differences and prepares you for situations like choking, allergic reactions, or febrile seizures in kids.
We also offer Emergency Paediatric First Aid Training, which is perfect for nursery staff, early years professionals, or anyone who works with children. These courses meet Ofsted and EYFS standards and are essential for schools and childcare settings.
7. Myth: Performing CPR Will Always Break Ribs
Reality: While it’s true that CPR can sometimes cause rib fractures, it’s not inevitable and more importantly, it shouldn’t deter anyone from performing this life-saving technique.
A broken rib can heal. Brain damage from lack of oxygen cannot. The priority during cardiac arrest is to maintain circulation until help arrives. Our expert trainers at Training 22 teach proper techniques that maximise safety while delivering effective compressions.
We also teach participants how to recognise signs of good compressions and how to handle the psychological pressure of emergency scenarios. Knowledge removes fear and replaces it with action.
8. Myth: Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation Is Always Necessary
Many people are afraid to give CPR because they worry about mouth-to-mouth contact. But in adult cardiac arrest cases, hands-only CPR is a safe and effective option.
Studies show that chest compressions alone can double or triple a person’s chance of survival if done right away. In our courses, we teach you when to use full CPR (compressions and breaths) and when chest compressions alone are enough.
Knowing these differences helps reduce the fear of “doing it wrong,” so people feel more confident to help. With Training 22, you’ll always follow the latest, research-based guidelines.
9. Myth: First Aid Training Is a One-Size-Fits-All Approach
Every workplace has its own hazards. For example, a construction site has different risks than a nursery, an office, or a restaurant. This is why general training doesn’t work for everyone.
We provide customised courses like Emergency Workplace First Aid London to help learners prepare for the specific emergencies they might face. Our courses include case studies, scenarios related to your environment, and role-play exercises.
Whether you manage an office or work on a construction site, our trainers adjust the content to make it relevant and practical. This way, you’re not just learning; you’re getting ready for real situations.
10. Myth: First Aid Training Is Just a Box-Ticking Exercise
Many people see first aid training as just a compliance requirement. However, with the right mindset, it can be a crucial investment in safety for both individuals and organisations.
First aid training promotes a culture of responsibility and care. It increases confidence, speeds up response times, and strengthens team bonds. Our HSE-approved First Aid Course in London goes beyond the basics, encouraging participants to actively protect health and safety.
This training is not just about meeting requirements; it’s about developing skills that could save lives. The benefits are significant.
Why Debunking First Aid Myths Matters
Believing in first aid myths can be dangerous. It can cause delays, wrong actions, or no action when it’s needed most. By clearing up these myths, we move from being inactive to being ready.
Education is powerful. With the right information and training, anyone can achieve great things. Whether it’s treating a burn, helping someone breathe, or staying calm, knowledge really helps.
If you’ve believed any workplace first aid myths, now is the time to change that. Begin your journey with Training 22.
Ready to Bust the Myths and Take Action?
First aid training is not just a skill; it’s a responsibility. When you learn first aid, you help create a safer community. Don’t let misunderstandings about first aid training stop you from getting this important knowledge.
Being prepared gives you strength. Whether you’re a parent, employer, employee, or caring citizen, knowing how to help in an emergency is a valuable skill for life.
At Training 22, we aim to empower people in the UK with practical and easy-to-understand first aid courses. We offer trusted, accredited training that meets HSE standards, from Paediatric First Aid to Level 3 EFAW Training in London.
Choose to make a difference. Your first aid journey begins here.