A Ghanaian physician specialist, Dr. Ahmed Lukman-Kinan, has issued a warning against pouring water on someone who collapses, stating that it does not help revive them and could cause further harm. According to Dr. Lukman-Kinan, who works at the Ghana Armed Forces Critical Care and Emergency Hospital, pouring water on a collapsed person is a common reaction that can distract from the appropriate first-aid response. He emphasized that this practice is not only ineffective but also potentially hazardous.
Dr. Lukman-Kinan cautioned against forcing fluids or objects into a collapsed person's mouth, as they could aspirate the material into their lungs. This can lead to serious complications, including damage to the airway and lungs. He explained that fluids given to an unconscious person could enter the lungs instead of the stomach, a process known as aspiration. This highlights the importance of being aware of the correct first-aid procedures to avoid causing additional harm.
The physician specialist also warned against improperly moving a collapsed person, particularly allowing their neck to dangle, which can worsen cervical spine injuries and affect breathing. He recalled seeing situations where people rushed a collapsed person to hospital while allowing their neck to dangle during transportation, which can cause further injury to the cervical spine. Damage to the cervical spine can be life-threatening and affect breathing.
Dr. Lukman-Kinan emphasized that attempts to make a person drink or swallow something when they have collapsed could put them at greater risk rather than helping them recover. Instead, he advocated for seeking appropriate emergency assistance and avoiding actions that could cause further harm. He called for better public education on first aid so people can respond appropriately when someone collapses before professional help arrives.
The doctor's comments highlight the importance of knowing what to do and what to avoid doing when someone suddenly becomes unconscious or collapses. Rather than relying on practices such as pouring water on the person or forcing something into their mouth, people should seek appropriate emergency assistance. Dr. Lukman-Kinan's warning serves as a reminder to be aware of the correct first-aid procedures to avoid causing additional harm.
Dr. Lukman-Kinan also advocated for properly equipped and trained ambulances that can respond quickly to emergencies in communities. He believes that this will help reduce the risk of further harm and improve the chances of survival for those who collapse. His comments have sparked a renewed focus on the importance of first aid and emergency response in Ghana.
The warning from Dr. Lukman-Kinan serves as a timely reminder to the public on the importance of being aware of the correct first-aid procedures. By avoiding common mistakes such as pouring water on someone who collapses, people can help prevent further harm and improve the chances of survival.
Key points
- Dr. Ahmed Lukman-Kinan warns against pouring water on someone who collapses.
- Pouring water on a collapsed person can distract from the appropriate first-aid response and cause further harm.
- Dr. Lukman-Kinan advocates for better public education on first aid and properly equipped and trained ambulances.
