Welcome to FirstAid4Free

Welcome to my first aid site. I'm a first aid trainer and assessor. I've been teaching first aid for about 10 years now. Everyone should have some first aid knowledge for in the home and work place. Not everyone has the chance to attend a full first aid course so I'll provide some key first aid points every week.

Important Notice

The information on this site is for guidance only. The first aid procedures are those in the current edition of the First Aid Manual at the time of inclusion on the site. Attendance on a first aid course to practice these procedures is always recommended.

Shock


Treatment of shock - lie the casualty down, get help and monitor.

Shock is when there is a lack of blood flow to the vital organs, particularly the brain. The organs have a reduced supply of oxygen and a build up of waste products. Serious shock is a killer. It is good practice to assume every casualty has some degree of shock and treat them accordingly.

Casualties who have lost fluid from the body are particularly prone to shock - those suffering bleeding, burns, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal injuries.

Signs of shock:
Initially:
  • Rapid pulse.
  • Pale, cold and clammy skin.
  • Sweating.
Later on:
  • Grey-blue skin.
  • Weakness and gidiness.
  • Nausea or thirst.
  • Rapid, shallow breathing.
  • Weak pulse.
Eventually:
  • Restlessness.
  • Gasping for air.
  • Unconsciousness.
Treatment of shock:
  • Lay the casualty down. Lie the casualty down on soft ground, ideally a blanket and raise their legs.
  • Loosen tight clothing.
  • Get help.
  • Monitor the casualty's responsiveness, airway and breathing. Be prepared to give CPR if the casualty stops breathing.
Do not:
  • Allow the casualty to eat, drink, smoke or move.
  • Leave the casualty unattended, other than to go and get help.
REMEMBER - SHOCK IS A KILLER - SUSPECT AND TREAT ALL CASUALTIES FOR SHOCK.