CPR and AED

Fainting

Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a shortage of oxygenated blood to the brain. Common causes of fainting include:

• Fear or anxiety
• Lack of fresh air
• Severe pain, injury, or illness
• The sight of blood
• An underlying medical problem
• Fatigue or hunger
• Long periods of standing or sitting
• Overheating

A person who has fainted is unconscious. Place them in recovery position to protect the airway and prevent possible choking. Place the casualty in a comfortable position as they regain consciousness.

First Aid for Fainting

To give first aid for fainting, perform the following steps:

1. Ensure a supply of fresh air and loosen tight clothing at the neck, chest, and waist.
2. Make the casualty comfortable as consciousness returns and keep them lying down for 10 to 15 minutes. Continue to monitor breathing and consciousness.

Do not assume a person has “just fainted,” unless there is a quick recovery. If the recovery is not quick or complete, call 9-1-1 and stay with the casualty until they take over.

Feeling faint or “impending faint”

Sometimes when a person is about to faint, there are warning signs. The person:

• Will lack colour
• Is sweating
• Feels sick, nauseous, dizzy, or unsteady

First aid for an impending faint

To give first aid for an impending faint, perform the following steps:

1. Place the casualty on their back.
2. Ensure a supply of fresh air. Open windows or doors.
3. Loosen tight clothing at the neck, chest, and waist.
4. Stay with the casualty until they have fully recovered.