What it means
A brief blackout, usually lasting seconds to a minute, after which the person wakes on their own. It happens when the brain does not get enough blood for a moment. Causes range from simple fainting with pain, fear or standing for a long time, to standing up too fast (orthostatic hypotensionhy-poh-TEN-shunBlood pressure lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mm Hg in an adult.hypo- belowtension pressureFull entry ), dehydration, heart rhythm problems and blood loss.
For the nurse
Help a client who feels faint to lie down or sit, protect the head, and check the pulse, blood pressure and blood glucose. Teach clients at risk to rise slowly, sitting on the edge of the bed first. Report a faint that happens during exercise or with chest pain or palpitations.
At a glance
| Everyday words | fainting, passing out |
|---|---|
| Spanish | síncope |
| Also written | syncopal |
Related terms
dehydration
A state in which the body has lost more water than it has taken in.
hypotension
Blood pressure lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mm Hg in an adult.
arrhythmia
A heart rhythm that is not normal: too fast, too slow or irregular.
dizziness
A feeling of being lightheaded, unsteady or off balance, or that the room is spinning.