In fainting or near-fainting, what is the reason for elevating the legs if safe to do so?

• A. To help blood flow to the brain.
• B. To prevent swelling in feet.
• C. To make the person more comfortable.
• D. To decrease breathing rate.

Answer: (A)

When someone is faint or nearly faint, the brain isn’t getting enough blood because blood pressure has dropped. Elevating the legs uses gravity to push more blood from the legs back toward the heart and up to the brain, improving cerebral blood flow and helping the person regain consciousness. This is the best reason to raise the legs, if it’s safe to do so. It isn’t primarily for swelling, comfort, or changing breathing rate. Do not move someone if there’s a potential injury or it isn’t safe; keep them lying flat and monitor them as they recover, then help them sit up slowly.