If someone suddenly collapses and is unresponsive, but you confirm they are still breathing, this is a serious medical emergency. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Check Responsiveness and Breathing
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Tap their shoulder and shout to see if they respond.
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If they don’t respond but you can see normal chest movements and feel or hear breaths, they are still breathing.
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Call emergency services immediately (e.g., 911/999/112).
2. Position Safely – Recovery Position
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Place them in the recovery position to keep the airway clear:
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Kneel beside them.
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Extend the arm nearest to you out at a right angle.
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Place the far arm across their chest and the back of their hand against their cheek.
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Bend the far knee up, then roll them toward you.
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Tilt the head back slightly to keep the airway open.
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This prevents choking if they vomit and keeps the tongue from blocking the airway.
3. Monitor Continuously
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Stay with them until help arrives.
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Keep checking that they are still breathing normally.
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If breathing stops, start CPR immediately (chest compressions at 100–120 per minute).
4. Other Key Actions
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Loosen tight clothing around chest and neck.
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Do not give food or drink.
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If injured (e.g., from a fall), only move them if they are in immediate danger.
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If you know their medical history (diabetes, epilepsy, heart disease), inform emergency responders.
Why This Matters
Unresponsiveness with breathing can result from many causes (head injury, seizure, fainting, alcohol, stroke, heart event). The recovery position and close monitoring can prevent airway obstruction and sudden deterioration until professionals take over.
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