Emergency Cheat Sheets
Quick reference for when you are on the floor and seconds count.
- F - Face: Ask them to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- A - Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- S - Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T - Time: If you observe ANY of these signs, call 911 immediately and note the time the symptoms started.
If you discover a fire:
- R - Rescue: Remove the person from immediate danger.
- A - Alarm: Call 911.
- C - Contain: Close doors to stop the spread of smoke.
- E - Evacuate: Get out and stay out.
To use a fire extinguisher:
- P - Pull the pin.
- A - Aim at the base of the fire.
- S - Squeeze the handle.
- S - Sweep back and forth.
Use this when calling a doctor or supervisor to report a change.
- S - Situation: "I am calling about Mrs. Jones. She has a fever of 101."
- B - Background: "She has a history of UTIs. This started 2 hours ago."
- A - Assessment: "Her urine is dark and she is agitated."
- R - Recommendation: "I think she needs to be seen. What do you recommend?"
Use this when a person without dementia becomes aggressive or overwhelmed.
- Do not argue or correct facts. Validate the emotion ("I see you are frustrated").
- Lower your volume and speak slower ("Low and Slow").
- Excuse yourself briefly: "I need to check the kitchen, I will be right back."
- Leave the room for 60 seconds to let the adrenaline drop for both of you.
- Return and offer a distraction or fresh start.