Health Care

Facing a situation where somebody has collapsed is frightening, particularly if it is somebody you know. However, there are some very simple steps that you can take to help you decide the best course of action, which in an emergency could mean the difference between life and death.

Check the scene
Is it safe for you to approach the person who has collapsed?
Do not become a victim yourself. Check for dangers such as chemicals, electricity or traffic. If you can safely remove the danger, do so. If not, consider if you can safely and easily move the person from the danger, or whether you need to call for additional help such the fire service.

Check the response
Is the person who has collapsed conscious?
• Gently squeeze the shoulders and ask loudly, ‘Are you all right?’
• Speak loudly and clearly.
• Always assume there may be a neck injury and squeeze gently.
For babies and young children, do not squeeze the shoulders try to provoke a response by stroking the cheek or the sole of the foot and speaking loudly.

If there is no response
If there is no response, the immediate danger is that the casualty might be unconscious and may have a blocked airway or be in need of resuscitation.
• Shout for help.
• If possible, leave the casualty in the position in which you found him and open the airway.
• When it is not possible to carry out an assessment of the casualty in the position found, turn him on to his back and open the airway.