Responding to a Friend Fainting: Key Steps

Recognizing Signs of Fainting

• Common symptoms:
  • Tunnel vision
  • Things appearing gray
  • Cloudy hearing
• Friend may express feeling unwell

Immediate Actions

• Avoid Chairs Without Arms: They can fall out easily.
• Leaning Against a Wall: Help slide them down gently.
• Providing Support:
  • Hold the person close to maintain control.
  • Support their head to prevent it from hitting the ground.

Laying Down the Fainting Person

• Lowering Gently: Go down to knees together.
• Recovery Position:
  • Bend a knee, roll them to the side.
  • Ensures vomit or fluids can drain and prevent choking.

Aftercare

• Cooling the Person:
  • Use cold compresses, ice, or cool cloths on forehead and neck.
• Getting Them Up:
  • Slowly and carefully, there's no rush.
  • Assist by going underneath their arm.

Monitoring and Reassessment

• Check for Recurring Faintness:
  • Prepare to lay them back down if necessary.
• Call for Help if Needed:
  • Persistent fainting may require medical assistance.

Emergency Procedures

• Ensure Breathing and Pulse:
  • If absent, start CPR.
  • Contact 911 and stay connected to the dispatcher for guidance.
• Medical Conditions:
  • Be aware of underlying conditions that may affect consciousness.

Conclusion

• Most fainting spells resolve with these steps, but persistent problems require emergency help.