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Warning-sign checks

Decerebrate posture: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services immediately for any new decerebrate posture.

    Tell emergency responders about any recent injury, seizure, illness, medication, alcohol, or possible drug exposure.

    Note when the episode began and whether the movements changed, but do not delay calling for help to collect information.

    After emergency treatment, routine follow-up may be appropriate for continuing stiffness, movement problems, swallowing difficulty, or rehabilitation needs.

    A new episode or reduced awareness remains an emergency.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Do not wait for the stiffness to stop or arrange a routine appointment.

The article also says

While waiting for help:

Check whether the person is breathing normally

Begin CPR if they are not breathing normally and follow dispatcher instructions

Keep the area around them clear to prevent injury

Do not restrain their limbs or place anything in their mouth

Do not give food, drink, or medicine

Avoid moving them after possible head or neck trauma unless safety requires it

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Decerebrate posture. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.