Hi, I’m Dr. Samita Moolani, and today I want to talk about a critical topic: what you should do if someone around you faints or collapses. Knowing how to respond in these situations can save a life.
Step 1: Call for Medical Help
If someone collapses, the first thing to do is call out for a doctor or someone medically trained. If no one is available, follow these steps to assist the person.
Step 2: Place the Person on Their Back or Side
If the person is not spitting up or frothing, gently lay them on their back. If they are, turn them on their side to prevent choking. This allows any fluid to drain and keeps their airway clear.
Step 3: Check for Breathing
Put your ear next to their mouth to listen for breathing. Watch their chest for any movement to ensure they are breathing normally.
Step 4: Check for a Pulse
Check the pulse at either the wrist or the neck. If both breath and pulse are present, proceed to the next step. (Insert graphic showing pulse points)
Step 5: Elevate Their Legs
If the person has a pulse and is breathing, lift their legs about 30 degrees, placing them on a stool or having someone assist you. This step helps return blood to the central body, which is essential if the collapse is due to a vasovagal attack.
Step 6: Do Not Force Feed
Never try to give the person food or drinks while they’re unconscious. This could lead to choking. Also, loosen any tight clothing, belts, or buttons that may be restricting their breathing.
Step 7: Avoid Crowding the Person
Only two people should assist the collapsed person. Crowding can worsen the situation, especially if it’s a vasovagal episode caused by stress or anxiety.
Step 8: Clear the Airway if Needed
If the person is not breathing, gently tilt their head back to clear the airway. If they are still not breathing, you may need to start CPR if trained. Always call for an ambulance as soon as possible in such cases.
Key Takeaways
- Call for help immediately.
- Place the person on their back or side.
- Check for breathing and pulse.
- Elevate the legs if the person has a pulse.
- Avoid giving food or drinks to someone unconscious.
- Don’t crowd the person.
- Clear the airway if they’re not breathing and start CPR if needed.
Get CPR Trained
For CPR training, look for courses offered by the American Heart Association (AHA) or the Red Cross. Timely help can save a life!
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Visit to us: Moolani’s Eye Care Centre
103, Pundol Apartment, 160 MG Road, Pune – 411001
Dr. Samita Moolani Katara
MBBS, DO, DNB, FACS
Consulting Ophthalmologist