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A faint is a brief collapse involving loss of consciousness.
It is caused by a reduction in the blood flow to the
brain. Fainting can be a reaction to shock, pain or
lack of food. Most commonly, however, it occurs when
someone is inactive for a prolonged period, such as
through standing still, and a significant amount of
blood pools in the legs, thus reducing the flow to the
brain.
A
faint is a minor event, but on occasions, the casualty
may injure him/herself when falling.
You
will notice
The casualty collapses and is unconscious.
The pulse is very slow.
The skin is very pale.
You
may notice
Complaint of faintness or dizziness.
TREATMENT
If
you were not the casualty who has apparently fainted,
always check the ABC of Resuscitation
Raise the casualty's legs; use a chair or ask a bystander
to give support.
Loosen tight clothing at the neck, chest and waist.
Reassure the casualty and encourage to stay lying down
until fully recovered.
Gradually help the casualty to sit and then to stand
up.
If still unconscious, after a couple of minutes, turn
the casualty into the recovery position and call for
an ambulance.
Someone
who feels faint
You
will notice
Very pale appearance.
Complaint of faintness or giddiness.
TREATMENT
Sit the casualty down.
Ask the casualty to put the head between his/her legs.
Loosen any tight clothing at the neck, chest and waist.
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