What to do if the patient is unconscious and not breathing?

WRITTEN BY JON

When a person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, it's a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. In this article, we will discuss the steps to take when a person is unconscious and not breathing, as well as what to do if the patient starts breathing again.

Call for Emergency Services

The first step in dealing with an unconscious person who is not breathing is to call for emergency services. Dial 911 or your local emergency number and provide the operator with the location and details of the emergency. If you are in a remote area without access to a phone, send someone to get help while you stay with the person.

Start CPR

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a life-saving technique that can help to keep oxygen flowing to the brain and vital organs. It involves chest compressions and rescue breaths, and can be performed by anyone who has been trained in CPR. If you're not trained in CPR, it's important to get trained as soon as possible, as it's a life-saving skill.

Check for a Pulse

Before starting CPR, it's important to check for a pulse. This can be done by feeling for a pulse on the person's neck or wrist. If a pulse is detected, it's important to keep the person's airway open and to monitor their breathing. If a pulse is not detected, it's important to start CPR immediately.

Use an AED

An AED, or automated external defibrillator, is a device that can be used to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm. It's a simple device that can be used by anyone, and it's designed to be used in an emergency. If an AED is available, it's important to use it as soon as possible.

Monitor the Person

It's important to monitor the person and to check for breathing and a pulse periodically. If the person starts breathing again or if their pulse returns, it's important to continue to provide care and to wait for emergency services to arrive.

Provide First Aid

While waiting for medical help to arrive, it's important to provide first aid if necessary. This includes keeping the person warm, providing emotional support and reassurance, and providing first aid if necessary. If the person is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.

Keep the Person Comfortable

It's important to keep the person as comfortable as possible while waiting for medical help to arrive. This includes keeping them warm, providing emotional support and reassurance, and providing first aid if necessary.

What to do if the Patient starts Breathing again

If the person starts breathing again or if their pulse returns, it's important to continue to provide care and to wait for emergency services to arrive. Keep the person in a stable position, monitor their vital signs and provide first aid if necessary.

In conclusion, when a person becomes unconscious and stops breathing, it's a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate action. The first step is to call for emergency services, start CPR, check for a pulse, use an AED, monitor the person, provide first aid and keep the person comfortable. Remember that prevention is the key, and always be prepared and equipped with the right knowledge and tools to handle any situation. Always be mindful and take the necessary precautions, and follow proper hygiene practices to avoid contamination of the wound. If the person starts breathing again, continue to provide care and wait for emergency services to arrive.