Fainting
Overview
- Adapted from NHS
Immediate management
- If someone feels faint, they should lie down, preferably in a position where the head is low but the legs are raised (to help facilitate blood flow to the brain); alternatively, they should sit with their head between their knees. They should wake up within about 20 seconds
- NHS reminds patients that they must inform the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they are fainting regularly, as it could affect their ability to drive
When to see a GP
- NHS recommends the person should contact their GP if they have fainted and do not know the cause
- Recently fainted more than once
When to call 999
- NHS states to call 999 if someone faints and they cannot be woken up after 1 minute (also, place the patient into the recovery position)
- Have severely hurt themselves from a fall
- Are shaking or jerking because of a seizure