Algorithm for syncope/collapse

This algorithm poses key questions about a collapse episode, including whether and when LOC occurred. However, in the absence of a credible witness, information about such episodes is often limited, as the affected individual may not have accurate recall of the event. Some causes have more than one possible type of presentation.

ACLS: advanced cardiac life support; BLS: basic life support; LOC: loss of consciousness; SAH: subarachnoid hemorrhage; TIA: transient ischemic attack.

* This includes actual LOC as well as apparent LOC.

¶ Accidental falls without LOC often have multiple causes, including gait, posture, or balance impairment, environmental hazard, vertigo, focal seizure, TIA, stroke, and presyncope.

Δ These conditions result in apparent transient LOC, although consciousness may be preserved.

◊ Other causes of collapse may cause secondary head trauma.

§ Most TIAs and strokes are not associated with LOC. An SAH may cause transient or prolonged LOC. A rare cause of LOC is a brainstem stroke.

Graphic 131146 Version 2.0

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Algorithm for syncope/collapse