Shock is a potentially life threatening condition where the vital organs, such as the brain are not getting enough blood or oxygen to function properly. The condition may occur as a result of an injury which results in excessive blood and fluid loss, such as gunshot wounds or severe burns, heat stroke or a severe illness. Symptoms include pale, cold skin, a weak or rapid pulse and shallow breathing. Because shock can lead to organ failure, a person who has gone into shock requires immediate care.
Step 1
Call 911. The sooner professional help arrives, the better.
Step 2
Have the person lie down if he is not down already, and cover him with a blanket. If he does not have a head injury, prop his feet up on a 12-inch stack of books, or a box, if available.
Step 3
Turn him on his side to prevent choking if he vomits. Keep a damp towel nearby to wipe his face and mouth if he does vomit.
Step 4
Loosen any tight clothing to make him more comfortable and encourage blood flow.
Step 5
Press gauze against the open wound if he is bleeding. If he has a puncture wound, and the object is protruding from the wound, leave the object as is and apply gauze around the object. Do not apply pressure. Removing an object from a puncture wound can cause more bleeding.
Step 6
Keep him still, calm and comfortable until help arrives. Check that he is still breathing, if he loses consciousness. If he stops breathing, roll him onto his back and administer CPR.
CPR
Step 1
Kneel on the person's right side, next to his chest. Put the heel of your left hand in the center of his chest, above the "V." Put your right hand on top of your left and link your fingers.
Step 2
Lean directly over him so that your arms are straight up and down. Push straight down in the center of the chest, hard enough that the chest compresses two inches, 30 times. Pump as quickly as you can.
Step 3
Rest for 10 seconds and repeat the compressions until help arrives.
Things You'll Need
- 12-inch box or stack of books
- Blanket
- Gauze
- Towels
References
- MedlinePlus: Shock
- MayoClinic.com: Shock First Aid
- "BLS for Healthcare Providers ;"American Heart Association; Feb 2006
