Responding to Fainting: A Guide to Helping a Person Recover

Fainting happens when there is a temporary loss of blood to the brain and a person loses consciousness. Most people who faint recover in only a minute or two. There are many causes of fainting including stress, drugs, anxiety, medications and medical conditions. Read on to learn how to rouse a teammate who has fainted.

Instructions

• 1

  If someone around you faints, place them on their back with their legs elevated above the heart.

• 2

  Check their airways to ensure that they are breathing properly.

• 3

  Loosen clothing such as collars, belts or restrictive sports gear.

• 4

  Many first aid kits come with smelling salts. Break the glass capsule and hold it close to, but not directly under the person's nose.

• 5

  If the person does not regain consciousness within a minute or two of fainting, call 911 and follow the directions of the operator until help arrives.