Unconsciousness - first aid: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services now if a person is unconscious, cannot be awakened, is not breathing normally, has repeated seizures, has a serious injury, or may have taken a poison or overdose.

   Begin the appropriate first aid while help is coming.

   Also seek emergency help if the person wakes but has chest pain, trouble breathing, new weakness, difficulty speaking, severe confusion, a severe headache, or worsening symptoms.

   Routine follow-up is for reviewing test results, adjusting ongoing treatment, or discussing return to driving, work, and usual activity after the immediate emergency has been managed.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice after any unexplained loss of consciousness, even if recovery seems complete.

   Assessment is particularly important after a first episode, an injury, an episode during exercise, or an event accompanied by heart symptoms.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Unconsciousness - first aid. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.