Has someone fallen Unconscious and you are finding it very difficult to wake them?

Check the victim's airway, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin CPR at once. If the victim is unconscious but breathing, carefully place him or her in the recovery position. Loosen the clothing, keep the person warm, and provide reassurance if couscious. Try to keep the victim calm. If an overdose is suspected, try to prevent the victim from taking more drugs. Call for immediate medical assistance. If possible to identify what drugs the individual has taken inform the operator of the type of drug and dosage involved.

Is someone conscious but unable to stand?

What to do if someone needs assistance after using Amphetamines (Speed), Cannabis, Ecstasy, LSD & Magic Mushrooms

• Assess the situation
• If needed call an ambulance
• Calm them and be reassuring. Try not to panic! Speak in a normal voice and if you feel scared or worried, try not to let them see it.
• Explain that what they are feeling will pass.
• Encourage them to settle in a quiet calm room (Lower lights if possible).
• If they start breathing quickly, calm them down by asking them to take long deep breaths.

NOTE: Amphetamines (Speed), Cannabis, Ecstasy, LSD & Magic Mushrooms can sometimes make the user feel tense & panicky.

What to do if someone needs assistance after using Heroin, Tranquillisers, Gases, Glues & Aerosols

• Assess the situation
• If needed call an ambulance straight away Tel: 999.
• Calm them down and be reassuring, speak in a low and calming voice.
• Do not allow them to become frightened or startled
• Do not allow them to over exert themselves.
• NEVER give them coffee!
• If the condition persists, place them in the recovery position. (See below)

NOTE: Heroin, Tranquillisers, Gases, Glues & Aerosols can make the user feel drowsy.

What to do if someone needs assistance after using alcohol

• Assess the individual, Have they fallen? Have they hit their head? do they need an ambulance?
• If needed dial 999 straight away or ask someone reliable to do it while you do the following.
• Place the person affected in the Recovery Position. This is so they do not choke (See below).
• Check their breathing. If they are not breathing and if you are able, be prepared to do mouth to mouth resuscitation. If not, find someone who is. Loosen clothing around the person's neck.
• Keep them warm. However not too hot and if they have taken ecstasy make sure they have plenty of cool fresh air.
• Stay with them. If you need to leave return A.S.A.P.
• If you know what has been taken, make sure to tell the Ambulance Driver even if it is alcohol.
  

NOTE: Too much Alcohol can cause someone to fall unconscious. However an overdose of most drugs will cause someone to fall into a state of unconsciousness.

If someone is heavily under the influence of alcohol, don't leave them to sleep it off alone because there is a risk they may choke on their vomit. Sleep them on their side and keep an eye on them.

Recovery Position
An unconscious person should be gently moved into the recovery position so as nothing blocks their airway. It is very important that someone remains with the individual while awaiting medical intervention. Note the breathing of the unconcious individual either by placing your ear over their mouth and listening for breaths and or monitoring the chest rising and falling.

For information on First Aid Courses contact: St. John's Ambulance on (01) 668 8077