Loss of consciousness - what to do
The following information is not a substitute for a first aid course. Many organizations offer first aid training covering the steps to take when someone is unconscious (including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with rescue breathing). Your municipality or local CLSC can provide information on courses in your area.
A child who has lost consciousness will be immobile, limp, and unresponsive when you touch them or call their name.
Is your child breathing?
- They suffered a blow to the head, neck, or torso
– Don’t move them.
They did not suffer a blow to the head, neck, or torso
– Turn them on their side. - Call 9-1-1. The operator will tell you what to do.
Your child isn’t breathing
- Call for help and make sure someone calls 9-1-1.
- Do the manoeuvres described below. The 9-1-1 operator can guide you.
Manoeuvres
- Place your child on their back on the floor.
- Press their chest firmly toward the floor, then release to allow it to return to its normal position.
- Repeat the compression and release in a rapid and continuous up-and-down motion until your child responds or breathes or until help arrives.
A person trained in first aid should favour manoeuvres with ventilation.
Child under age 1
Press down on the middle of the chest with 2 fingers, just below an imaginary line between the nipples.
Child age 1 or older
Press down on the middle of the chest with the palm of your hand, between the nipples
Take your child to the emergency room when they regain consciousness because there could still be complications.