Summer alert: Health Ministry says ‘do not forcefeed or give water’ to the unconscious, but why?

Among these guidelines, a critical point addresses the handling of individuals who get unconscious should not be force-fed or given water.

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— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) May 1, 2024

Why is force feeding unconscious individuals not advisable?

Dr Chaithanya H R, consultant physician at Athreya Hospital says, “An unconscious person lacks the swallowing reflex, which can lead to aspiration. This means fluids or food can enter the lungs instead of the stomach, causing pneumonia and respiratory distress.”

If fluids are administered incorrectly, he continues, they can lead to electrolyte imbalances in the bloodstream. This can cause heart rhythm problems, seizures, and other complications. Focusing on oral intake might delay proper medical evaluation to diagnose the underlying cause of unconsciousness.

Be heatwave ready with simple first aid steps if you feel dizzy or uneasy. (Source: Freepik)

Exceptions to the guidelines

There are no exceptions to the guidelines against force feeding or providing water to unconscious individuals. Dr Rahul Pandit, chair of critical care, at HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, emphasises, “This guideline applies universally across all medical scenarios due to its foundational emphasis on airway protection and safety. Regardless of the specific medical context, the fundamental principle remains that only conscious individuals, capable of protecting their airway and swallowing voluntarily, should consume food or water”.

He added, “This universal application underscores the critical importance of consciousness and airway integrity in determining the appropriateness of administering sustenance”.

What to do when someone is unconscious

When confronted with an unconscious individual requiring medical attention, Dr Pandit suggests, laypersons should follow specific steps to ensure the individual’s well-being. Firstly, they should promptly position the unconscious person in a lateral or recovery position, also known as a coma. “This positioning facilitates the maintenance of an open airway and aids in the drainage of oral secretions, thereby reducing the risk of airway obstruction,” Dr Pandit added.

Reach out for emergency medical services immediately. “Keep the airway open by gently tilting the head to one side and lifting the chin. Keep a constant check on whether the unconscious individual is breathing. If not breathing, initiate CPR if trained,” said Dr Srinath of Asha Hospitals and Research Centre.

Dr Palleti Siva Karthik Reddy, consultant physician added, “Turn the unconscious person on his or her side (recovery position). This helps keep the airway open and prevents choking if they vomit.”

In essence, refraining from force feeding or giving water to unconscious individuals aligns with safeguarding their health by averting potential complications and expediting appropriate medical intervention.