General Rules for the first-aid treatment of an unconscious patient:

  • Place the patient on his side with his head turned so that vomit can run out of his mouth.
  • Make a quick survey to exclude arrested breathing or severe bleeding. These conditions must be given priority of treatment.
  • Loosen all clothing and let him have plenty of fresh air.
  • Remove spectacles or dentures. If his breathing is difficult, instruct an assistant to place his thumbs behind the angles of the jaw and draw the jaw forward; this will keep the tongue from falling back and blocking the air passage.
  • Do not move him, unless he is lying in a place of danger, until you have completed first aid.
  • Keep him warm with the aid of blankets, including one underneath him.
  • Do not give him anything by mouth until he regains consciousness.
  • Keep him under continuous observation. If he is restless he should be gently restrained.
  • Remember that the unconscious patient does not feel pain.
  • Remember that with a severe injury associated with much loss of blood unconsciousness may be due to shock.
  • Remember that with a head injury unconsciousness may be due to concussion or compression of the brain.