SHOCK
CAUTION
IS IT AN EMERGENCY?
RECOMMENDED MODULES FOR TREATMENT
CPR
BURNS
BLEEDING
ESSENTIALS
WHAT TO DO FIRST
CHECK FOR THE FOLLOWING SIGNS
- Rapid pulse
- Pale, cold, clammy skin
- Sweating
As shock develops:
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Weak pulse
- Gray-blue skin, especially inside lips
- Weakness and giddiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Thirst
As the brain’s oxygen supply weakens:
- Restlessness
- Gasping for air
- Loss of consciousness
how to treat it
HELP CASUALTY LIE DOWN
Help the casualty lie down (ideally on a blanket). Raise and support his legs above the level of his heart. Treat any cause of shock, such as bleeding (above) or burns.
LOOSEN TIGHT CLOTHING
Keep the casualty’s head low. Loosen any clothing that constricts his neck, chest, and waist.
KEEP CASUALTY WARM
Cover the casualty with a blanket to keep him warm. Advise the casualty not to move.
CALL FOR EMERGENCY HELP
Call for emergency help. Give the dispatcher details about the cause of shock, if known.
Monitor and record vital signs— level of response, breathing, and pulse—until help arrives.
CAUTION
- Do not leave the casualty unattended, unless you are on your own and have to call for emergency help.
- Do not let the casualty move.
- Do not try to warm the casualty with a hot-water bottle or any other form of direct heat.
- Do not give the casualty anything to eat or drink because an anesthetic may be needed.
- If the casualty loses consciousness and is not breathing, begin CPR with chest compressions