A systematic approach to the unconscious patient

Clin Med (Lond). 2018 Feb;18(1):88-92. doi: 10.7861/clinmedicine.18-1-88.

Abstract

Unconscious patients are commonly seen by physicians. They are challenging to manage and in a time sensitive condition, a systematic, team approach is required. Early physiological stability and diagnosis are necessary to optimise outcome. This article focuses on unconscious patients where the initial cause appears to be non-traumatic and provides a practical guide for their immediate care.

Keywords: Unconscious; coma; drug toxicity; hypoglycaemia; neurological injury.

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Early Medical Intervention
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Patient Care Management* / methods
  • Patient Care Management* / standards
  • Patient Care Team / organization & administration*
  • Prognosis
  • Time-to-Treatment
  • Unconsciousness* / diagnosis
  • Unconsciousness* / etiology
  • Unconsciousness* / physiopathology
  • Unconsciousness* / therapy