Head injuries involve injury to the brain (for example, bruising or bleeding), skull (for example, fractures or breaks) or face (for example, bruising, bleeding and fractures).

Severe head injuries are an emergency. You can help by knowing what to do.

• Loss of consciousness or altered state of awareness (not awake or "groggy")
• Confusion and memory loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Any bleeding from the head that is more than minor

• Call 111 for an ambulance if they are unconscious or bleeding heavily
• Assist them to rest in a comfortable position. Place them on their side if they are unconscious.
• Control external bleeding with direct pressure.

To test your knowledge and learn the basics of giving First Aid, why not try our free fun online programme at everydayhero.org.nz? For comprehensive First Aid information please refer to the St John Emergency Handbook. You can also ensure you are ready to help by completing a St John First Aid course.