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Fainting, also known as syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. While fainting is usually not life-threatening, it can indicate an underlying medical issue and requires a quick response from a certified first aid attendant. As an OFA Level 1 first aid attendant, knowing how to assess and manage a fainting incident can help prevent further injury and ensure the safety of the worker.
Understanding Fainting
Fainting can be triggered by various factors, including:
✔ Emotional distress or pain
✔ Dehydration
✔ Low blood sugar
✔ Standing for a long time
✔ Sudden changes in position (orthostatic hypotension)
✔ Underlying medical conditions (e.g., heart issues, low blood pressure)
In most cases, fainting is brief, and the person will regain consciousness within a few moments. However, it is critical to assess the situation properly to determine if further medical attention is needed.
Priority Action Approach
When responding to a fainting incident, follow these OFA Level 1 first aid steps:
1. Scene Assessment
✔ Ensure the scene is safe for you and the injured worker.
✔ Identify any hazards that could pose further danger (e.g., unstable structures, sharp objects).
✔ Determine the number of affected individuals.
2. Responsiveness Assessment
✔ Check the worker’s level of consciousness using the AVPU scale:
- Alert – Worker is fully conscious
- Verbal – Responds to voice commands
- Pain – Responds only to pain stimulus
- Unresponsive – No response at all
3. Primary Survey
✔ Airway (A): Ensure the worker’s airway is open and clear. If they are unresponsive, perform a head-tilt chin-lift maneuver.
✔ Breathing (B): Look, listen, and feel for air movement. Confirm normal breathing patterns.
✔ Circulation (C): Check for signs of shock (pale, clammy skin, weak pulse, dizziness).
4. Activate Emergency Response Procedures
🚑 If the worker does not regain consciousness quickly, call 911 immediately or activate the workplace Emergency Transport Vehicle (ETV).
✔ Provide EMS dispatch with essential information, including:
- The worker’s condition (e.g., unconscious, breathing irregularly)
- Location of the incident
- Number of affected workers
✔ Have a co-worker confirm that EMS has been called.
5. Critical Interventions
✔ If the worker is unresponsive:
✅ Place them in the recovery (¾-prone) position to keep the airway clear.
✅ Protect them from injury by moving objects out of the way.
✅ Do NOT slap or shake the person to “wake them up” – allow them to regain consciousness naturally.
✔ If the worker is responsive:
✅ Encourage them to lie down on their back with their legs elevated (if no injury is suspected) to restore blood flow to the brain.
✅ Loosen tight clothing to allow better circulation.
✅ Do NOT let them stand up too quickly to prevent another fainting episode.
✔ Monitor breathing and circulation until emergency responders arrive.
Secondary Survey and Ongoing Assessment
✔ Collect Medical History – Ask the worker if they have any pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, low blood pressure).
✔ Look for MedicAlert bracelets or other medical identification.
✔ Reassess ABCs every five minutes – Continuously monitor airway, breathing, and circulation.
✔ Monitor vital signs – Check breathing rate, level of consciousness, and pulse.
✔ Update EMS dispatch – Report any changes in the worker’s condition.
Documentation
📋 Complete a first aid record:
✔ Document all observations, treatments, and communications with the worker and EMS.
Key Takeaways
✔ Act Quickly – While fainting is usually brief, timely assessment is essential.
✔ Prioritize Airway Management – If the worker is unresponsive, keep their airway clear.
✔ Positioning Matters – Use the recovery position for unresponsive workers and elevate the legs of those who regain consciousness.
✔ Do NOT Force Fluids – Avoid giving water or food immediately after a fainting episode.
✔ Call for Help – If the worker remains unconscious or has difficulty breathing, activate EMS immediately.
✔ Investigate the Cause – Transport the worker to medical aid for further evaluation.
By following these OFA Level 1 first aid guidelines, you can effectively manage a fainting emergency, ensuring a safe and quick recovery for the affected worker.
Need First Aid Training?
If you’re looking to enhance your workplace safety skills, enroll in an OFA Level 1 course in Vancouver. Fundamental First Aid provides WorkSafeBC-approved first aid training, equipping you with essential life-saving techniques for emergencies like fainting, seizures, and diabetic emergencies.
✅ Book your first aid training today!