Chapter 9: Shock

AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITIONCopyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross

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CAUSES OF SHOCK

Heart rate increases

Blood volume decreases

Blood vessels loose ability to regulate flow

Prioritizes blood flow

AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITIONCopyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross

All rights reserved.3

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SHOCK

Restlessness and/or irritability

Rapid and weak pulse

Rapid breathing

Skin changes

Excessive thirst

Nausea and vomiting

Drowsy or loss of consciousness

AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITIONCopyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross

All rights reserved.4

Care for Shock

Check – Call – Care

To care for shock—

Monitor the victim’s breathing and signs of circulation.

Control any external bleeding.

Elevate the legs about 12 inches.

Do not elevate the legs—

If the victim is nauseated or having trouble breathing.

If you suspect head, neck or back injuries or possible broken bones.

If moving causes more pain.

AMERICAN RED CROSS FIRST AID–RESPONDING TO EMERGENCIES FOURTH EDITIONCopyright © 2005 by The American National Red Cross

All rights reserved.5

Care for Shock (continued)

Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, even though he or she is likely to be thirsty.

Help the victim maintain normal body temperature by keeping him or her from getting chilled or overheated.

Do not wait for shock to develop before giving care to a victim of injury or sudden illness.

Follow the general care steps for any emergency to minimize the progression of shock.