1. Seat the victim.
If the victim is conscious, move her to a chair and have her sit down. If she is unconscious on the floor, leave her in place. Most people who are knocked out after a fall regain consciousness within a few minutes.
2. Test cognition.
Ask the victim her name. Have her point to a few family members or friends in attendance and state their names. Ask her what type of event she is attending and the city in which it is being held. Ask her to state the date, including the day of the week and year.
Correct answers indicate that she has not suffered a concussion. If she answers incorrectly, check again in 10 minutes.
3. Check responsiveness.
Ask the victim to follow your finger with her eyes as you move it from side to side and up and down. Ask her to move her arms and legs in coordinated motions.
Help the victim stand, then ask her to walk forward, then backward, then forward again. Accomplishing these tasks indicates there is no neurological damage.
4. Watch for vomiting or loss of consciousness.
Pay particular attention to the victim for the next hour.
5. Prevent alcohol consumption.
Ask the victim if she has had anything alcoholic to drink or has taken tranquilizers or other medication, all of which may mimic the symptoms of injury. Do not let the victim drink.
