First Aid for Fainting

Fainting is a partial or complete loss of consciousness due to a reduced supply of blood to the brain for a short time. Occasionally, a person collapses suddenly without warning. Recovery of consciousness almost always occurs when the victim falls or is placed in a reclining position, although injury may occur from the fall. To prevent a fainting attack, a person who feels weak and dizzy should lie down or bend over with his head at the level of his knees.

A. Manifestations

Signs and symptoms are usually preceded or accompanied by—

1. Extreme paleness
2. Sweating
3. Coldness of the skin
4. Dizziness
5. Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet
6. Nausea
7. Possible disturbance of vision

B. First Aid for Fainting

1. Leave the victim lying down.
2. Loosen any tight clothing and keep crowds away.
3. If the victim vomits, roll him onto his side or turn his head to the side and, if necessary, wipe out his mouth with your fingers, preferably wrapped in cloth.
4. Maintain an open airway.
5. Do not pour water over the victim’s face because of the danger of aspiration; instead, bathe his face gently with cool water.
6. Do not give any liquid unless the victim has revived.
7. Examine the victim to determine whether or not he has suffered injury from falling.
8. Unless recovery is prompt, seek medical assistance. The victim should be carefully observed afterward because fainting might be a brief episode in the development of a serious underlying illness.

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