b'D R S A B C DResponse / Send for HelpChapterResponse means consciousness. If the patient is conscious and responsive, this means the patient is breathing with a heart beat. An unconscious patient is unaware of their surroundings and no purposeful response can be obtained. The brain requires a constant supply of oxygenated blood and glucose to function. An interruption to this supply will cause loss of consciousness within seconds and permanent brain damage within minutes.Be cautious when talking over an unconscious patient as hearing is one of the last senses to be lost. How to Check for Response Call out to the patient and ask, what is your name? or open your eyes or are you okay?Gently tap the patient on the shoulder and ask can you hear me? Reach out and ask, can you squeeze my hand?Grasp and squeeze the shoulders firmly to check for a response.If the patient is a baby, gently stimulate and talk to check for a response. Do not shake a baby or a small child.Send for HelpIf there is a response:Send for help if necessary.Manage any life-threatening injuries such as bleeding and wounds.Manage other injuries such as soft tissue injuries and fractures.Rest, reassure and keep the patient warm.In a situation where the airway is likely to be obstructed by water, vomit, bloodor other fluid, turn the patient on their side (recovery position,refer to page 58 ). This will enable any foreign materials to drain and also ensure the tongue does not relax onto the back of the throat. Provides a stable position. Permits good observation and access to the airway. Avoids pressure on the chest which facilitates breathing.If there is no response, the patient is considered to be unconscious. A patient who shows only a minor response such as groaning without eye opening should be managed as if unconscious. Assist the unconscious patient to the ground and position on their side. Ensure the airway is open and clear. Do not leave the patient sitting in a chair or place their head between their knees. This may be life threatening.Send for help / call Ambulance 000. Send a bystander if available -only leave the patient if there is no other option available to get help. Ideally, the most experienced rescuer should stay with the patient.40 Resuscitation'