Patient Safety & LawQuestion 95 of 100
A patient becomes pale, sweaty, and faints briefly in the dental chair. What is the correct initial positioning?
a.Sit the patient fully upright and offer water
b.Have the patient stand and walk to increase circulation
c.Place the patient supine with the legs slightly elevated to improve blood flow to the brain
d.Turn the patient face down to protect the airway
Explanation
Syncope is managed by placing the patient supine with the legs slightly elevated, which restores cerebral blood flow, along with assessing airway, breathing, and circulation and administering oxygen if indicated. Sitting the patient upright or having them stand worsens cerebral hypoperfusion and risks a fall. A face-down position compromises rather than protects the airway.
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