WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMEODY HAS COLLAPSED

Written by Neill Abayon

Facing a situation where somebody has collapsed is frightening particularly if its somebody you know. However there are some very simple steps that you can take to help you decide the est course of action, which in an emergency could mean the difference between life and death.

1. CHECK THE SCENE - Is it safe for you to approach the person who has collapsed. Do not become a victim of yourself. Check for dangers such as chemicals, electricity, or traffic. If you can safely remove the danger, do so. If not, consider if you can safely move the person from danger or whether you need to call for additional help such as the fire service.


2. CHECK THE RESPONSE - Is the person who has collapsed conscious?

* Gently squeeze the shoulders and ask loudly, "Are you all
right?".

* Speak loudly and clearly.

* Always assume there may be a neck injury and squeeze gently.


3. IF THERE IS NO RESPONSE - If there is no response, the immediate danger is that the victim might e unconscious and may have a blocked airway or be in need of resuscitation.

* Shout for help.
* If possible,leave the victim in the position in which you found him and open the airway.
* When it is not possible to carry out an assessment of the victim in the position found, turn him onto his back and open the airway.


4. OPEN THE AIRWAY

* Place one hand on th forehead and gently tilt the head back.

* Remove any obvious obstructions from the victims mouth, including dislodge dentures,but leave well-fitting dentures in place.

* Place the fingertips of two fingers under the point of the victims and lift the chin, If injury to the neck is suspected, handle the head very gently and try to avoid tilting the head too much.

5. CHECK FOR BREATHING - Once the airway is open, the next priority is to check whether or not the person is breathing. Keep the airways open with one hand on the forehead and one head lifting the chin. Put your cheek to the victims face and look down the chest.

* Look for the movement of the chest and stomach.

* Listen for breath sounds.

* Feel for breathing on the side of your face.


If the victim is not breathing call 911 for emergency help.