A Malaysian woman recently shared on Threads about a shocking incident she witnessed a car hit a motorcycle right in front of her, leaving the young rider badly injured but still conscious and asking for water.
To her surprise, everyone around refused to give him a drink and there’s actually a serious reason why.
Mother arrives with water, but told ‘no’
The woman recounted how, just minutes later, the boy’s mother arrived with a bottle of mineral water, wanting to help her son who kept saying he was thirsty.
But a bystander quickly stepped in and said:
“You can’t give him water, ma’am. It’s dangerous.”
The mother, visibly upset, asked why:
“Why not? My son is thirsty… have some pity, it’s so hot.”
The man then explained that drinking water after an accident could be life-threatening if there were internal injuries or if emergency surgery was needed:
If he drinks, the water might go into his lungs or cause complications. We don’t want the risk of him choking or dying because of this.”
Why paramedics say ‘wait first’
Another bystander elaborated further:
- Accident victims might have internal bleeding or organ damage that isn’t obvious.
- Drinking before surgery can cause vomiting during anesthesia, leading to choking or aspiration into the lungs.
- The body may be in shock, and giving water could worsen hidden injuries.
Instead, the best thing to do is keep the victim calm, talking, and conscious until the ambulance arrives.
What to do after an accident: dos & don’ts
Based on advice shared by netizens and paramedics:
- Don’t give food or water until medical professionals arrive.
- Don’t let the victim fall asleep, especially if there might be a head injury.
- Don’t move the victim unnecessarily, as it could worsen spinal or internal injuries.
- Don’t massage or press on any injured areas.
- Don’t remove a helmet if it’s still on; let paramedics handle it unless it has already come off.
If the victim is very thirsty, it’s safer to wet their lips with water rather than let them drink.
Many online users agreed, sharing that even in the Emergency Department, doctors often don’t allow patients to eat or drink until all scans and tests are done.
Some also pointed out that leaving the body in a “starving mode” helps prevent complications and allows doctors to quickly prepare for surgery if needed.
View on Threads
