Shock
What is shock?
Shock is something that occurs when you do not have enough blood circulating around your body. This lack of blood circulation is a life-threatening medical emergency. Some of the many causes of medical shock include uncontrolled bleeding, severe burns and spinal injury. Emotional distress or sudden fright in response to a traumatic event is also called shock.
Symptoms
Look for the following to determine if someone may be in shock:
Treatment
Shock is something that occurs when you do not have enough blood circulating around your body. This lack of blood circulation is a life-threatening medical emergency. Some of the many causes of medical shock include uncontrolled bleeding, severe burns and spinal injury. Emotional distress or sudden fright in response to a traumatic event is also called shock.
Symptoms
Look for the following to determine if someone may be in shock:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Pail, cool, moist skin
- Rapid breathing and pulse
- Discolouration of lips and fingernails
Treatment
- Call 000.
- Have the victim lie down on his or her back with feet about a foot higher than the head. If raising the legs will cause pain or further injury, keep the victim flat and still.
- Check for signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement) and if absent, begin CPR.
- Keep the victim warm and comfortable by loosening any belts or tight clothing and covering the person with a blanket.
- Even if the victim complains of thirst or hunger, do not give them anything.
- Turn the victim on his or her side to prevent choking if they vomit or bleed from the mouth.
- Seek treatment for injuries, such as bleeding or broken bones.