What should a nurse do if a patient experiences syncope?

• A. Have patient immediately stand and walk to evaluate tolerance.
• B. Support the patient's body weight and gently lower them to the floor.
• C. Call family member to assist while patient remains upright.
• D. Administer a quick dose of stimulant medication.

Answer: (B)

Syncope is a temporary loss of consciousness from reduced brain blood flow, so the priority is safety and restoring circulation quickly. The best action is to support the patient’s body as they lose consciousness and gently lower them to the floor. By keeping them from falling and then laying them flat, you reduce the risk of injury and promote venous return to the heart and brain. If possible, place the patient in a supine position with the legs elevated to help blood flow back toward the brain, as long as there are no injuries or spinal concerns.

While the patient is down, check responsiveness, ensure an open airway, and monitor breathing and heart rate. Call for help if the episode lasts longer than a minute, if there are signs of chest pain, or if the patient does not regain consciousness promptly. Avoid standing them up and walking during the episode, which risks another collapse, and avoid giving stimulants acutely, as they don’t treat the underlying issue and could cause harm. After they regain consciousness, reassess vital signs and look for reversible causes such as dehydration, hypoglycemia, or arrhythmia.