WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Check for consciousness

To check another person for consciousness, tap or gently shake him or her and shout, "Are you okay?"

A person who faints (syncope) usually regains consciousness within 2 minutes. After fainting, a person usually is not confused. After a seizure or a head injury, a person who has been unconscious usually is confused.

If a person has fainted, emergency care usually is not needed. However, it is important to evaluate the person for other symptoms that may need medical attention and injuries that may have occurred if the person fell when he or she fainted.

Author Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Denele Ivins
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD
- Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC
- Neurology
Last Updated February 27, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 27, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.