When someone is unconscious, their condition is life-threatening. Their airway is at risk of becoming blocked by their tongue or vomit, which can stop them from breathing.
Danger
Response
Airway
Breathing
Circulation
It’s as easy as DRABC
Place in the Recovery Position
This position keeps the airway open and prevents choking while waiting for emergency services.
Place the arm nearest you at a right angle to their body.
Take the other arm, bend it and place the back of their hand against their cheek nearest to you. Support this hand with your palm.
Lift the leg farthest from you by the knee, placing the foot flat on the floor.
Pull that knee toward you to roll them onto their side.
Adjust the bent knee so it rests at a right angle to their body.
Check they are still breathing normally.
Special considerations:
If the casualty is heavily pregnant, always roll them onto their left side.
If you suspect a neck or spinal injury, place their hand nearest you gently under their head for support while rolling them over.
In the case of a motorcyclist wearing a helmet, it is appropriate to remove the helmet if unconscious to protect the airway but do so carefully to avoid further injury.
No one has ever been sued for giving first aid — the worst thing you can do is nothing.
www.passionfirstaid.co.uk
Unconscious Casualty: What to Do?
