Shock is a life-threatening condition in which the body's vital functions are threatened due to lack of sufficient blood or oxygen flow to the tissues. Shock is one of the primary consequences you are trying to avoid when administering first aid.
Symptoms: Pale or bluish skin, lips, and fingernails; moist, clammy skin; weakness; weak, rapid pulse (more than 100 beats per minute); increased breathing rate; irregular breathing; restlessness, anxiety; thirst; vomiting; dull look in eyes; dilated pupils; unresponsiveness; blotchy or streaked skin; possible unconsciousness in severe conditions.
Emergency Treatment
Symptoms: Pale or bluish skin, lips, and fingernails; moist, clammy skin; weakness; weak, rapid pulse (more than 100 beats per minute); increased breathing rate; irregular breathing; restlessness, anxiety; thirst; vomiting; dull look in eyes; dilated pupils; unresponsiveness; blotchy or streaked skin; possible unconsciousness in severe conditions.
Emergency Treatment
- Make certain victim's airway is open, using head-tilt chinlift to open airway, even if back, neck, or head injury is suspected .
- Seek medical assistance immediately. Call for EMS.
Until EMS arrives:
- If back, neck, or head injury suspected, DO NOT move victim . If no back, neck, or head injury suspected, lay victim faceup and elevate feet about 12 inches. DO NOT place victim in position that is uncomfortable.
Move the victim to a comfortable position
only if there's no back or neck injury. - Loosen any tight clothing.
- Look for injuries, and control any bleeding .
- Cover victim lightly with blanket.
- DO NOT give victim anything to eat or drink. If victim vomits, roll the victim onto their side and clean out victim's mouth.
- Put an unresponsive victim or a stroke victim in the Recovery Position.
