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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Fainting (Syncope)
DESCRIPTION
Fainting (syncope) is defined as falling down and being
unconscious for a short time (usually less than 1 minute).
The four most common causes are sudden stress (for example,
seeing a bad accident), severe pain, prolonged standing in
one position with the knees locked, or sudden standing up
(especially after bed rest). Children who have fainted from
such causes recover quickly after lying down for a few
minutes.
SIMILAR CONDITIONS
Breath-Holding Spells
- Coma (remaining unconscious is an EMERGENCY)
HOME CARE
- First aid
Have your child lie down for 10 to 15 minutes with his
feet elevated. Put a cold washcloth on his forehead.
Offer your child a glass of fruit juice after he is
conscious. If the fainting was due to stress or fear,
help your child talk about it. Smelling salts are
unpleasant and not needed.
- Prevention
To prevent fainting that results from prolonged
standing, explain to your child that keeping the knees
locked interferes with recirculation of the blood. If
your child must stand for long periods of time, he
should pump the blood by repeatedly relaxing and
retightening the leg muscles.
To prevent fainting that occurs when your child stands
up suddenly, make sure your child sits up and takes some
deep breaths before standing up.
Also, feeling faint at any time or place is a warning to
sit or lie down quickly.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:
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