Admin How do you examine an unconscious patient?
To determine if the patient is unconscious and unable to follow commands, use the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) to test eye opening, best motor response, and best verbal response. An unconscious patient is likely to open her eyes only in response to pain, if at all; obviously, you can’t test her best verbal response at all.
What is the first thing to do if a person is found unconscious?
If a person is unconscious or has a change in mental status, follow these first aid steps: Call or tell someone to call 911 or the local emergency number. Check the person’s airway, breathing, and pulse frequently. If necessary, begin CPR.
What are the steps when approaching an unconscious patient?
What you need to do
- Step 1 of 5: Open the airway. Place one hand on the person’s forehead and gently tilt their head back.
- Step 2 of 5: Check breathing.
- Step 3 of 5: Put them in the recovery position.
- Step 4 of 5: If you suspect spinal injury.
- Step 5 of 5: Call for help.
Why should you communicate with an unconscious client?
Verbal communication is an essential part of the nursing process which can reduce anxiety or distress and emotionally stimulate the patient. It is usually a two-way process in which a message is sent and understood, and feedback is given.
What are the guidelines for communicating with a patient who is confused or unconscious?
Sit in front of and at the same level as him or her and maintain eye contact. Speak distinctly and at a natural rate of speed. Resist the temptation to speak loudly. Help orient the patient.
How do we measure consciousness?
Their metric, like other existing clinical measures of consciousness, is based on Electroencephalography (EEG), where voltages recorded from electrodes placed on the scalp provide a coarse picture of neural activity in the brain.
How is consciousness assessed?
The tool we use to assess the level of consciousness is the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). This tool is used at the bedside in conjunction with other clinical observations and it allows us to have a baseline and ongoing measurement of the level of consciousness (LOC) for our patients.