EMERGENCIES: UNCONSCIOUSNESS
To be out cold
When a person is unconscious, they are completely unaware of themselves and their surroundings. They have no control over body functions or movement. Usually they are not able to recall or remember any of the time spent in an unconscious state.
There are many causes of unconsciousness, including stroke, epilepsy, diabetic coma, head injury, alcohol intoxication, poisoning, heart attack, bleeding, electrocution and shock.
What you can do if someone has lost consciousness
Check for breathing. If necessary, open the airway and begin rescue breathing.
Check pulse. If no pulse, begin CPR.
Call for emergency medical assistance.
Keep the person warm unless you suspect heat stroke.
Lay the person down face up, with their head below their heart level. Move them as little as possible and only to provide life support or safety. Do not move person if you suspect a head or neck injury.
If there is vomit in the mouth, turn person on their side to allow fluids to drain out.
Look for medical identification or possible cause of unconsciousness.
Do not give anything to eat or drink.
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