DISORDERS OF

CONSCIOUSNESS
Recovery Position
Unconscious patient who is breathing should
be placed in a recovery position.
The recovery position prevents the tongue
from blocking the throat
The head is lower than the rest of the body,
liquids can drain from the mouth reducing the
risks of the casualty inhaling the stomach
content
FAINTING
Temporary loss of normal blood supply to the
brain.
Standing still for a long time,
Sudden change of position,
Injury (often minor).
An unpleasant sight.
Causes:
FAINTING
Giddiness.
Blurred vision.
Weakness.
Hot and Cold feeling.
Yawning.
Temporary loss of consciousness.
Slow, weak pulse.
Pale, cold, clammy skin and sweating.
Recognition:
FAINTING
Lay the casualty down with legs
raised and head and body flat.
Loosen tight clothing.
Check for injury or illness.
Treatment:
FAINTING
Treatment:
After recovery:
Let the casualty rest for some minutes before
moving.
Make sure that casualty has plenty of fresh air.
Reassure casualty.
Help casualty to sit up gradually.
Look for and treat any injury that has been
sustained through falling.
FAINTING
Treatment:
If casualty does not regain consciousness
quickly, perform ABC check, and be ready
to resuscitate if necessary.
Place casualty in the recovery position.
Dial for an Ambulance.
UNCONSCIOUSNESS
An interruption of the brains normal activity.
Head injury
Stroke
Fainting
Heart attack
Shock
Major causes:
Poisoning
High blood sugar
Low blood sugar
Fits
Abnormal body
temperature

The AVPU classification of level of
responsiveness stands for:
A
V
P
U
lert
erbal
ain
nresponsiveness
EXAMINING AND TREATING
AN UNCONSCIOUS CASUALTY
AIM OF TREATMENT:
To maintain an open airway.
To assess and record the level of
response.
To treat any associated injuries.
To arrange for urgent removal to hospital,
if necessary.
To gather and retain any circumstantial
evidence of the cause of the condition.
EXAMINING AND TREATING
AN UNCONSCIOUS CASUALTY
AIM OF TREATMENT:
DO NOT attempt to give anything by mouth.
DO NOT move the casualty unnecessarily.
DO NOT leave the casualty unattended at
any time.
Treatment:
Check for ABC and give CPR if necessary.
Stop any bleeding.
Place in recovery position.
If casualty is conscious, support him or
her in a comfortable position.
Monitor and record breathing, pulse and
level of response every ten minutes.