How To Treat Someone For Shock
- April 9, 2008
- 11,731 Views
Writer
Rosemarie_Lennon
Music
Edison Music Corp
Voice Over Artist
Peter Coleman
Actor
Sean O'Hagan
Shock occurs when there is an insufficient amount of blood flowing through the body. It’s often the result of a serious illness or injury, such as from a car accident. It’s a life-threatening condition—you’ll need to act fast.
You Will Need
- Awareness of the signs of shock
- A calm demeanor
- A blanket
- Something with which to prop up feet
- A shading device, like an umbrella
When you encounter someone in a state of shock, seek medical attention immediately.
Step 1: Check for signs of shock
Check for signs of shock. They include clammy skin, paleness, restlessness, thirst, bleeding, profuse sweating, confusion, labored or rapid breathing, blotchy or bluish skin (especially around the mouth), and nausea and/or vomiting.
If someone has lost a lot of blood, is severely dehydrated, has serious burns or wounds, or is suffering a severe allergic reaction, assume he is going into shock and begin treating him.
Step 2: Treat minor shock
Treat minor shock, where the shock is more due to the event than the injury, by having the person sit down and put his head between his legs, especially if he feels like he’s going to faint. The rush of blood to his head will help stabilize him.
Step 3: Loosen clothing
Loosen clothing at the neck, waist, and wherever it appears to be tight.
Step 4: Elevate the legs or head
Keep the person lying down and elevate his legs off the ground—unless they’re fractured—to help direct more blood toward the vital organs. If he’s having trouble breathing and you’re sure he’s suffered no injuries to his neck or spine, elevate his head and shoulders.
Do not move the person at all if you don’t know what his injuries are, or you could cause more damage.
Step 5: Check for mouth bleeding
Check for blood in the mouth. If it’s present, turn person on his side so he won’t choke.
Step 6: Maintain his body temperature
Keep him at a comfortable body temperature by covering him if it’s cold or providing shade if it’s hot.
If a tourniquet has been applied, try to keep it uncovered.
Step 7: Provide reassurance
Do your best to keep the person calm by providing constant reassurance. Speak and act with confidence (even if you’re quaking inside).
Do not give the person anything to eat or drink unless a medical professional instructs you to do so.
Step 8: Wait with the victim
Stay with the victim until medical help arrives.
The steps to treat shock are exactly the same as those to prevent shock.
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Comments (4)
A tourniquet should not be mentioned here, especially so casually. The only time one should be used is if the limb has been severed. Shock can be associated with severe blood loss, but that can usually be treated with direct pressure to stop the bleeding.
over 3 years ago by Dutchboy
I definitely agree with you. A tourniquet is serious business.
over 3 years ago by sanjay
shocking
over 3 years ago by KatieL
Hey these are the same people from the how to remember people's names video. The dude is Mjmbajkq(which is a weird name it sounds like something randomly typed) I believe but she kept calling him John.
about 1 year ago by 09tranm
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