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STOP, THINK, ACT: When called to assist someone who is unconscious, first call for help and try to find out if anyone witnessed the incident. Look for hazards and ensure they are removed. Check for other potential dangers and obstacles.
If possible, ensure someone is with you to call emergency services if needed. Introduce yourself to the patient, give them a gentle tap on the collarbone, and ask for permission to help. If they are conscious, talk to them to find out what happened and prevent them from moving while you assess the situation.
If the patient is unconscious, ensure they are breathing. If they are not breathing, commence CPR immediately.
To check for breathing:
If the patient is breathing normally, CPR is not required. Instead, send someone to call an ambulance and ask them to return to inform you of the estimated arrival time.
To keep the airway open and prevent choking on vomit, place the patient in the recovery position.
Steps to place the patient in the recovery position:
As a first aider, your role is to keep the patient comfortable and warm. Continue to speak to the patient and monitor them to ensure they are still breathing. If someone is available to help, ask them to find out when the ambulance will arrive.
If you are alone and do not have a phone, you may need to leave the patient to call for emergency services. Ensure they are breathing before you leave and check again upon your return.