Altered Level of Consciousness
People may exhibit an altered level of consciousness due to various causes including trauma or medical conditions such as diabetes or stroke. A patient in coma is in danger since he/she cannot protect his/her airway. The tongue may fall back and block the air passage. Steps should be taken immediately to maintain his/her airway.
If you come by a person who is unconscious
you should:
l Stay calm and dial ‘ 999 ’ for an ambulance immediately
l Roll the victim on his/her side to drain any saliva or vomitus from mouth
l Loosen any constricting clothing around the neck, chest and waist.
l Keep the patient warm and cover the patient with blanket or clothing
l Stay with the patient until the ambulance personnel arrive
Do not:
l Do not place anything such as pillow under the patient’s head
l Do not sit him/her up
l Do not give him/her anything by mouth
Information provided by Fire Services Ambulance Command Training School (11/2002)