What should be done if a person is hyperventilating?

In the case of hyperventilation, the primary concern is to help the individual return to a normal breathing pattern and alleviate their anxiety. Encouraging calm breathing is crucial because hyperventilation often leads to excessive intake of oxygen and a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can cause lightheadedness, tingling, and increased anxiety. By guiding the person to breathe slowly and evenly, you can help restore the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Techniques might include having them breathe in through their nose and out through their mouth while focusing on maintaining a relaxed demeanor.

Other courses of action, such as administering CPR, would only be appropriate if the person were unresponsive or not breathing effectively, which is not the case with hyperventilation. Providing high sugar snacks does not address the physiological factors behind hyperventilation and could potentially exacerbate anxiety. Similarly, putting someone in a cold bath is neither safe nor relevant for treating hyperventilation; such an approach could induce shock rather than promote calmness.

In summary, encouraging calm and controlled breathing is the most effective and appropriate response in cases of hyperventilation, as it targets the underlying issue directly and helps to stabilize the individual.