First Aid for Unconsciousness: A Step-by-Step Emergency Guide to Save Lives

Unconsciousness is a medical emergency. Follow these steps immediately:

1. Call 911 (or your local emergency number) – This is the single most important action. Unconsciousness can signal stroke, cardiac arrest, seizure, overdose, or trauma.
2. Check breathing – If the person is not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR immediately (push hard and fast in the center of the chest).
3. If breathing normally – Roll them onto their side into the recovery position to keep the airway open and prevent choking on vomit.
4. Loosen tight clothing around the neck, chest, and waist to aid breathing.
5. Stay with the person – Monitor breathing and responsiveness until EMS arrives. Keep them warm and reassure them if they regain consciousness.

Critical Do-Not-Do List

• Do not give food, water, or medication – aspiration risk.
• Do not try to "wake them up" by shaking or slapping.
• Do not move the person unless they are in immediate danger (fire, traffic, etc.).
• Do not place anything in their mouth.

After They Regain Consciousness

Keep them calm and still. Do not let them stand up quickly. Provide EMS with details: what happened, duration of unconsciousness, any known medical conditions, medications, or substance use.