What is happening?

What to do

1. Cannot wake, seizure, unusual speech or weakness after a head impact: emergency help now.
2. Also call for high-speed impact, fall over1m or5stairs, embedded object or skull dent. A lower fall can still be serious. Do not ignore other signs.
3. Under1year with head bruise, swelling or large cut: emergency help now. Changed behaviour, marked irritability or lost interest after impact also urgent. Do not shake or lift to test response.
4. Ask them to keep their neck still in a comfortable position. Do not force it straight.
5. If unresponsive, keep the airway open with dispatcher help. Breathing and CPR take priority over keeping the neck still.
6. If unresponsive: call emergency services. If breathing is abnormal, start CPR with dispatcher guidance.
7. Report blood thinners, vomiting or any loss of consciousness.
8. After impact: changed vision/hearing, imbalance, clear nose/ear fluid or ear bleeding: emergency help. Vomiting, dizziness or blood thinners also need urgent assessment. Report later changes.
9. Dent/suspected skull fracture: no pressure there. Cover gently with clean gauze and call emergency help. Do not remove embedded objects or wash a deep head wound.
10. Stay and watch response/breathing. Vomit blocks airway: follow necessary roll in spine guide. No phone/signal: ask another to call safely. Do not stay alone or drive.