First Aid For An Unconscious Victim

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If you are the first one to arrive in a scene of accident and you find an unconscious victim lying on the ground, do you know what to do?

Incidents that involve unconscious victims are particularly difficult to deal with. Many would scream and panic at the sight of an unconscious person. It is important to remember that the first few minutes after an accident is crucial for the outcome of the casualty, so what you do during this critical period can have a huge impact on the injured person. Knowledge of first aid techniques is vital in ensuring the safety and improving the chances of survival of the victim.

first aid mannequins
Candidates enrolled in CPR training will practise CPR techniques by using mannequins.

There is a wide range of reasons why a person can lose consciousness but regardless of the cause, the immediate first aid follows specific principles. Your first priority should be to protect the airway. The victim may be suffering from spinal cord injury or shock or cardiovascular problem, but if you do not open the airway and ensure that the person is breathing, he or she may die.

First Aid Procedures

Call 911 or your local emergency service and ask for help. Before providing first aid, quickly survey the scene to gather information. If there are bystanders, ask about the nature of the injury. Check the immediate surrounding for possible clues, such as motorcycle helmet, empty drug containers, empty bottles of alcohol and so on.

  • With a clear, loud voice, ask the victim: “Are you okay?” Tap the shoulder of the victim but do not move or shake him.
  • If the person is unconscious but breathing and with normal pulse, position the victim to his side with head slightly extended, allowing fluid to drain out of the mouth (recovery position). Ideally, the victim should be moved as one unit using log rolling technique (this technique is not recommended for patients with spinal injuries). Ask the help of bystanders in moving the victim.
  • Monitor for breathing and pulse while keeping the airway open. Tilt the head gently to open the airway. If spinal injury is suspected, use the chin-lift maneuver to open the airway.
  • If the person is not breathing, initiate rescue breathing and be ready to perform CPR, if needed.
  • Once breathing and pulse is restored, ensure the airway and alignment of the spine by anchoring the head. To do this, hold the person’s head by placing your palms over the ears and your fingers along jaw line.
  • If moving the victim is necessary, make sure that the body (head, trunk and toes) is well aligned. Ask help from bystanders in moving the victim. However, do not waste time looking for help as the victim needs air immediately.
  • Continuously monitor breathing and pulse while waiting for emergency medical assistance. Never leave the victim alone.

To properly respond in any emergency, it is important that you have developed your knowledge and skills in first aid. Contact your local St Mark James Chapter to learn more about their first aid and CPR training courses available for you.

Video Related to Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

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