Shock

Shock is a failure to the circulatory system where the vital organs are not getting enough oxygenated blood. The body begins to shut down to get as much blood back to the vital organs

3 Signs and Symptoms of Shock are....

Pale, Cold and Clammy skin

If the casualty is pale what should you do?

Treat the cause and “RAISE THE TAIL”… ( Raise the Legs if safe to do so) This takes the blood back to the vital organs

If in Shock can we give them food or drink? A sweet tea maybe?

No, we can moisten the lips but no food or drink as it may delay an operation if required.

Common causes include:

Bleeding

Poisoning

Heart Attack

Recognition:

Pale, cold, clammy skin
Sweating
Rapid weak pulse
Rapid shallow breathing
Nausea
Thirst

Treatment:

Treat the cause of shock
Lay the casualty down on the floor
Elevate and support the legs ( If Pale raise the Tail) as long as not head or chest conditions!
Reassure the casualty
Keep the casualty warm
Dial 999 / 112 for an ambulance
Nil by mouth