Unresponsive

TL;DR

Not reacting to stimuli, indicating severe condition.

What is Unresponsive?

Unresponsive refers to a state in which an individual is unconscious and does not respond to stimuli such as voice, touch, or pain. Causes of unresponsiveness can include medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest, stroke, severe injury, or drug overdose. Recognising and assessing unresponsiveness is critical in first aid to initiate appropriate interventions and seek emergency medical assistance promptly.

First aid response to an unresponsive casualty involves checking for responsiveness by tapping the person's shoulder, squeezing their hands, and asking loudly if they are okay. If there is no response, checking for normal breathing and starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary. Activating emergency medical services and continuing to monitor the casualty's condition until help arrives are essential steps in managing an unresponsive individual.

First Aid for Unresponsive Person

• Check Responsiveness: Squeeze their hands gently and shout to see if the person responds.
• Call Emergency Services: Dial 000 immediately if the person is unresponsive.
• Open the Airway: Use the head-tilt, chin-lift method to open the airway.
• Check Breathing: Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing.
• Begin CPR: If there is no breathing, start CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths.

Takeaway to remember

An unresponsive person does not react to verbal or physical stimuli. This condition can result from various causes, including head injury, stroke, or cardiac arrest.

Reference

• First Aid eBook