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.