What immediate care should be provided for a person who has fainted?

Laying the person on their back and elevating their legs is the recommended immediate care for someone who has fainted. This position helps increase blood flow to the brain, which is crucial in restoring consciousness. When a person faints, it often results from a temporary loss of blood flow to the brain, and by elevating their legs, you facilitate a return of blood to the upper body more efficiently.

This approach is particularly effective because it utilizes gravity to assist in the recovery process. In addition to elevating the legs, ensuring the individual is lying flat can help prevent any further injury, especially if they fainted due to a sudden loss of consciousness.

The other options would not provide the necessary support or could even exacerbate the situation. For instance, laying someone on their stomach could make it difficult for them to breathe and does not assist in recovery. Sitting them up could cause further fainting or dizziness, and offering water may not be safe until they are fully alert. Shaking someone to awaken them can lead to confusion or anxiety and does not address the underlying issue of reduced blood flow. Thus, putting someone in a horizontal position with their legs elevated remains the safest and most effective practice for immediate care after fainting.