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Loss of Consciousness After Head Injury: Call 911 Immediately Now
Summary
Experiencing a loss of consciousness after a head injury is a serious medical emergency. When someone loses consciousness, they cannot protect their airway, which can lead to life-threatening situations. Immediate medical attention is crucial to ensure the person's safety and begin necessary treatments. This guide provides clear instructions on what to do if someone becomes unconscious following a head injury.
What Is This & Why It Matters
A head injury that leads to loss of consciousness requires urgent care because it can indicate significant brain trauma. When a person is unconscious, they are unable to respond or protect themselves from further harm. This could result in breathing difficulties or other complications. Recognizing the seriousness of this situation and acting quickly by calling 911 can be lifesaving. According to the latest ACS 2024 recommendations, immediate emergency care is essential in such cases.
What You Should Do
- Call 911 immediately without delay when you notice someone has lost consciousness after a head injury.
- Keep the person as still as possible to prevent further injury, especially if you suspect a neck or spine injury.
- Gently roll the person onto their side into the recovery position to help maintain an open airway.
- Monitor their breathing closely while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
- If the person is not breathing, begin CPR immediately and continue until help arrives.
- Stay calm and provide any relevant information about the incident to first responders upon their arrival.
- Reassure any bystanders that help is on the way and try to keep the environment calm.
- Follow any instructions given by emergency operators while waiting for paramedics.
What You Should NOT Do
- Do not attempt to move the person unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., from traffic or fire).
- Avoid giving them any food or drink, as this may cause choking or vomiting.
- Do not leave the person unattended at any time until medical help arrives.
- Refrain from shaking them or trying to wake them up aggressively.
- Avoid placing a pillow under their head, as this could obstruct their airway.
- Do not attempt to diagnose or treat any injuries yourself; leave this to medical professionals.
- Steer clear of offering any medications or painkillers before consulting with paramedics.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness once consciousness returns.
- Mild headache that improves with rest and hydration.
- Feeling confused or disoriented for a short period after regaining consciousness.
- Temporary memory loss of events leading up to and following the incident.
- Nausea without vomiting that subsides over time.
Call Your Doctor If...
- The person remains unconscious for more than 30 seconds.
- They have difficulty breathing or are gasping for air.
- Repeated vomiting occurs after regaining consciousness.
- Seizures or convulsions develop at any point after the injury.
- Clear fluid drains from the nose or ears, suggesting possible skull fracture.
- The injured person exhibits one pupil larger than the other.
- Persistent confusion, slurred speech, or inability to speak occurs post-injury.
- Severe headache that worsens rather than improves over time is experienced.
- Weakness or numbness in limbs is noticed after regaining consciousness.
FAQ
How quickly should I call 911 if someone loses consciousness?
You should call 911 immediately as soon as you notice someone has lost consciousness after a head injury.
Can I move the injured person if they are unconscious?
Only move them if there is immediate danger present. Otherwise, keep them still and wait for emergency help.
What is the recovery position?
The recovery position involves gently rolling the person onto their side, which helps maintain an open airway.
Should I give them food or drink once they wake up?
No, avoid giving them anything to eat or drink until medical professionals have assessed them.
What should I do if they start breathing again on their own?
Continue monitoring their breathing and stay with them until emergency services arrive.