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Guidance

In medical terms, shock is the body’s response to a sudden drop in blood pressure.

At first, the body responds to this life-threatening situation by constricting (narrowing) blood vessels in the extremities (hands and feet).

Many things affect the severity and effect of shock on a person, such as their health, age, gender and personality, where on their body they are injured, and the environment.

Symptoms

Symptoms of shock:

– Depending on the cause, symptoms and signs of shock may include:

– Pale, cold, clammy skin

– Shallow, rapid breathing

– Difficulty breathing

– Anxiety

– Rapid heartbeat

– Heartbeat irregularities or palpitations

– Thirst or a dry mouth

– Low urine output or dark urine

– Nausea

– Vomiting

Treatment

Medical shock is a life-threatening emergency. Effective first aid and prompt medical attention can save a person’s life.

First aid management includes:

– Follow the DRSABCD Action Plan to assess the situation.

– If the person is conscious, lie them down and keep them warm and comfortable. Loosen their clothing.

– If possible, raise their legs above the level of their torso and head (to improve blood flow to the brain, heart and lungs). Do not raise their legs if you suspect a spinal injury or if moving their legs causes pain, such as in the case of a suspected fracture in their leg(s).

– Manage any obvious signs of external bleeding. For example, firmly press a clean cloth or pad against a wound to stop blood loss. If blood seeps through and soaks the cloth, do not remove it. Add another cloth or pad over the top of the first one. If the second cloth or pad gets soaked, remove and replace that one with another clean cloth or pad. Continue maintaining firm pressure against the wound. Raise the bleeding injured limb if possible.

– Do not give the person anything to eat or drink, even if they are very thirsty.

– Reassure the person and encourage them to rest or stay still. Stay with them until the ambulance arrives.