04/09/2026
⛑ It's First Aid Friday! ⛑
Today's Topic: Fainting 👤
Fainting occurs when there is a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain, causing a brief loss of consciousness. Common signs that a fainting episode may be about to occur include dizziness or light headedness, changes in vision, cold sweaty and clammy skin or feeling off balance.
Fainting can be caused by a number of factors such as dehydration, fear or phobias, hunger, extreme heat or even standing in one spot too long or getting up too quickly.
Although most people generally come to from a fainting episode within a couple of minutes, it's imperative to ensure the casualty is laid flat on their back away from any danger until they fully recover. Raise their legs above their heart to help blood flow return to their head, loosen any tight clothing and be sure not to get them up or moving too quickly once they do become alert.
Should they not regain consciousness within a couple of minutes, aren’t breathing normally, showing signs of chest pain, hit their head hard or were injured in any way as a result of the fall, be sure to seek emergency medical help (call 000) for further instructions 🚑
And of course, should you yourself experience any signs of fainting, be sure to lie yourself down slowly in a safe place, elevate your legs above heart level, keep calm and wait for symptoms to pass before addressing the likely cause.
Stay safe and have a great weekend 🥰