A Nigerian nurse has warned people against giving water to accident victims immediately after a crash, explaining that what may seem like a simple act of kindness could potentially put the victim at greater risk.
According to the nurse, accident victims may be in shock or have suffered a head injury, which could affect their ability to swallow properly.
She explained that giving them water in such a condition could cause them to choke or aspirate the liquid into their lungs.
The nurse also said accident victims may require emergency surgery and anaesthesia, making it important for medical professionals to assess them before they consume anything.
She further pointed to the possibility of internal injuries and bleeding, stressing that severe thirst after an accident should not automatically be treated with water.
Rather than giving the victim water, she advised people to focus on getting emergency medical help and, while waiting, keep the person’s airway clear and avoid giving them anything to eat or drink.
Her advice has since sparked conversations online about some of the common things Nigerians do when trying to help accident victims at the scene of a crash.
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