In Hearts 4 Homeless, we volunteer in environments where unexpected medical situations can happen. These case studies are short, practical scenarios that help us prepare for these moments while staying calm, thinking clearly, and responding safely. The goal isn’t to “diagnose” or provide medical advice (we are not doctors), but to be aware of how to respond to emergency situations. 

Question: While volunteering at a Sunrise Navigation Center, you notice someone a few yards away suddenly collapse. As you approach, you see a small crowd forming around a man who is lying on the ground and experiencing uncontrolled, jerking movements.

1. What is this person likely experiencing?

2. How would you respond in this situation?

3. What actions should you avoid while the person is convulsing?

Discussion:

• Seizure: abnormal electrical activity in the brain 

  • Epilepsy, low blood sugar, drug/alcohol withdrawal, electrolyte imbalance, etc

• Safety:

  • Quickly check the area around the person for sharp or dangerous objects.

  • Clear space so they don’t hit anything while convulsing.

  • Ask bystanders to step back to give the person room to breathe.

• Protect the head:

  • Gently roll them on their side

  • Place something soft under their head, if available

• Do NOT restrain their movement

• Call 911 as situation allows

  • Most of the time it’s safer to call

• After the seizure:

  • Check for breathing

  • Stay with them until they regain consciousness

  • Reassure them - they may be confused or embarrassed

Question: At a Sunday screening, a woman approached our table, smiling and asking to have her blood pressure taken. As she sat down, her eyes rolled upward and her breathing became labored. She mentioned that she’s prone to panic attacks but insisted it was okay and that she still wanted her BP measured. A few moments later, she began wheezing and was unable to stand or speak.

1. How would you respond to this situation? Would you take her blood pressure?

2. What steps would you take to help her?

Discussion:

• Stop the BP screening (don’t take vitals while she’s struggling to breathe) & stay calm and reassure 

• Clear the area (have bystanders step back for space/air)

• Ask about rescue meds: “Do you have an inhaler or EpiPen?” Help her find/use her own if she’s able

• Find a supervisor for help

Question: You and your partner are working with a patient who displays strong distrust toward healthcare providers, expresses “conspiratorial” concerns about your intentions, and speaks in a condescending, disrespectful tone. The interaction becomes tense, and the patient is hesitant to engage or follow instructions. You still need to complete the task while maintaining professionalism and ensuring the patient feels safe and respected.

1. How would you respond in the moment to de-escalate the situation and build trust with this patient?

Discussion:

• Stay calm! Have only one person speak at a time

• Shift conversation & offer choices to individual (would you like to continue, reassure constantly)

• Use more simpler instructions (no medical jargon)

• If extreme & reactive, stop service