You should quickly assess the consciousness of a victim by talk and touch. You may follow the COWS acronym.
Note:
- The assessment of consciousness must be done quickly, so as not to delay CPR or first aid treatment if necessary.
- Infants respond more to touch—place one hand on an infant’s forehead and use your other hand to gently squeeze their shoulder while talking loudly to them. The infant may respond by making a noise, moving or opening their eyes.
The conscious victim
Conscious victims should be reassured and made comfortable, treated with respect, carefully assessed and managed according to their signs and symptoms. Remain calm and supportive as you talk them through how you intend to help and care for them while respecting their dignity.
Be sure to obtain their consent to provide (and document) first aid within the limits of your training. For victims under the age of 18, you need their parent’s or guardian’s consent, where possible.
Take into consideration if the victim is aged, infirm or has cultural values that may explain why they exercise their right not to be treated. Ask them simple questions and about how they feel to help reduce any anxiety. Continue to monitor their response. Encourage them to share the details of the incident or their illness if bystanders cannot.
Note:
- A victim, or their parent or guardian, may withdraw their consent for treatment at any time after you commence providing first aid or basic emergency care.
- Refer to the SLSA General Code of Conduct (in SLSA Policy 6.05-Member Protection) for guidance on how to treat both members and conscious victims with respect.
The unconscious victim
If there is no response to questions or touch, the victim is deemed unresponsive and you may provide first aid treatment with their ‘implied consent’.
The victim’s airway and breathing now become the priority. A victim who shows only a minor response, such as groaning without opening their eyes, should be managed as if unconscious.