Unconscious patient and recovery position
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Responding to Unconsciousness: Breathing, CPR, and the Recovery Position
When encountering someone who has passed out or fainted, follow these steps to ensure their safety and well-being.
1. Check for Breathing
Place one hand on the person's forehead and the other on their chin, gently tilting their head back to open their airway. This action pulls the tongue away from the back of the throat, allowing air to pass down the airway.
Addressing Airway Obstructions
The tongue is the most common airway obstruction, but food can also block the airway. Choking management will be covered in a separate module.
2. Call Emergency Services and Perform CPR if Necessary
If the person is not breathing, call emergency services and begin CPR immediately.
3. Assess Injuries and Place them in the Recovery Position
If the person is breathing, check for injuries and place them in the recovery position. The recovery position involves laying the person on their side to keep them safe and prevent choking if they vomit.
4. Monitor and Keep the Person Warm
Continuously monitor the person, keep them warm, and talk to them until help arrives.