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Post-Faint Management Protocol — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyPharmacology & TherapeuticsPost-Faint Management ProtocolORE Part 1

An adult patient develops a simple vasovagal faint during dental treatment. They regain full consciousness within 2 minutes and have no chest pain, palpitations, injury, seizure activity or persistent neurological symptoms. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Lay the patient flat, raise the legs, observe until fully recovered, then give prevention advice

**A is correct.** A simple faint with prompt, complete recovery is managed conservatively: lay the patient supine, raise the legs and observe until they are fully recovered. Once alert, discuss likely triggers and measures to reduce recurrence, such as hydration and avoiding recognised precipitants. NHS guidance advises calling 999 only when red flags are present, including failure to wake within 1 minute, incomplete recovery, chest symptoms, injury, seizure activity, exertional syncope or syncope while lying down. **B** risks recurrent syncope and premature discharge. **C** is unnecessary without red flags. **D** is not indicated in a rapidly resolving vasovagal episode. **E** is for anaphylaxis, not vasovagal syncope.

Reference: NHS, Fainting, section “If you see someone faint”, last reviewed 23 February 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/