Shock is a term used to describe the loss of effective circulation around the body.  Shock occurs when oxygenated blood is redirected away from the vital organs and pumped to the extremities.  

 

Shock is a life-threatening condition

Causes

• Severe bleeding
• Major trauma
• Fright or bad news
• Fluid loss, due to diarrhoea, vomiting, burns or heat stroke
• Heart damage – causes a reduction in the hearts ability to pump blood around the body
• Abnormal dilatation of blood vessels due to infections, allergic reactions or severe brain or spinal cord injury

 

Signs and Symptoms may include

• Pale, cold and clammy skin
• Pale tongue and inside of the mouth
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid weak pulse (rule of thumb for rapid pulse concern, adults after trauma with a pulse over 100)
• Nausea and or vomiting
• Weakness, faintness or dizziness
• Decrease in consciousness level

 

FOUR KEY SIGNS OF SHOCK ARE:

Pale – Sweaty – Agitated - Thirsty

 

Treatment

Follow the Basic First Aid Plan to assess the casualty

ü Control bleeding

ü Reassure casualty

ü Elevate casualty’s legs above heart level

ü Loosen tight clothing around neck, chest, and waist

ü

 

Keep casualty warm but do not overheat

ü Immobilise any fractures

ü Treat wounds

ü Monitor vital signs

NO EATING OR DRINKING

Seek medical aid immediately

 

 

 

 

 

Fainting is a brief or partial loss of consciousness, which occurs suddenly, causing the casualty to fall to the ground.  Recovery is usually rapid.  

 

Causes:

•  

 

• Fright
• Bad news
• Medication
• Sickness / nausea
• Standing for a long period of time
• Enclosed rooms
• Drop in blood pressure
• Cardiac disorder

 

Signs and Symptoms leading up to:

• Feeling light headed
• Pale, cold clammy skin
• Dizziness
• Anxiousness
• Feeling sick, Nauseous

 

Treatment

Follow the Basic First Aid Plan to assess the casualty

ü Lay the casualty down

ü Elevate the legs

ü Do not allow the casualty to stand until fully recovered

ü If a pregnant woman faints, place her on her left hand side and support her stomach

 

If casualty does not recover quickly, consider another diagnosis and treatment and call for an Ambulance

 

Brain damage or death can occur if the casualty is left, in an upright position, such as standing or sitting in a chair or vehicle