First Aid for an Unconscious but Breathing Individual

If an individual collapses, the first step is to determine whether they are unconscious and breathing. This situation can be life-threatening and requires immediate action. Always seek medical help as soon as possible.

If another person is nearby, ask them to call 911 immediately. If you are alone, shout for help and call emergency services yourself as soon as it is safe to do so.

What Should You Do If Someone Is Unconscious and Breathing?

While waiting for emergency services, follow the DRAB survey, the standard primary assessment taught in Canadian first aid training.

What Is the DRAB Survey?

D – Danger

Ensure the scene is safe for you and the individual.
Remove any hazards if possible before providing care.

R – Response

Adults and Children

Shout loudly: “Can you hear me?”
Gently shake the shoulders.
If the individual responds, assess for bleeding or other injuries.

Infants (Under 12 Months)

Flick or tap the sole of the foot to check for a response.
Do not shake an infant.

A – Airway

If there is no response, open the airway.
Place one hand on the forehead and gently lift the chin with two fingers.
Check the mouth for visible obstructions (do not sweep blindly).

B – Breathing

Place your cheek close to the person’s mouth.
Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
Watch for chest movement and feel for breath on your cheek.

What Is the Recovery Position?

If there is a response such as breathing, you should assess for significant bleeding and other types of injuries.

If the individual is breathing normally but unconscious, place them in the recovery position to keep the airway open and reduce the risk of choking.

Steps:

Gently roll the person onto their side.
Tilt the head back slightly and lift the chin to keep the airway open.
Adjust the top leg and arm so the individual cannot roll forward or backward.
Continue to monitor breathing until emergency services arrive.
If safe to do so, gently roll the individual to the opposite side after about 30 minutes to reduce pressure injuries.

Important Training Disclaimer

This information is provided as part of general first aid education and is not a substitute for professional medical care. An unconscious individual is always a medical emergency.

Knowing how to assess responsiveness, breathing, and how to safely place someone in the recovery position are essential first aid skills taught in Emergency First Aid and Standard First Aid courses.

St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, offers nationally recognized courses designed to prepare individuals to respond confidently to unconsciousness and other medical emergencies.