Fact Checked
Signs and Symptoms of Shock
Signs of shock can include:
- Pulse will be weak, but fast.
Straight away after an injury, individuals might show little indication of suffering from shock. Signs and symptoms might slowly advance - Skin will be damp and cold.
- Person will feel faint or dizzy.
- Nausea will set in.
Straight away after an injury, individuals might show little indication of suffering from shock. Signs and symptoms might slowly advance depending on:
- How severe the injury was.
- If there is a constant loss of fluid.
- How effective the first aid was managed.
Warning about Shock
- Shock can be dangerous.
- Never leave a casualty who is suffering from shock, by themselves.
Managing Shock
- Manage injuries such as severe blood loss.
- Comfort the patient.
- Elevate the casualty’s legs (except if they have broken bones or a snake bite) beyond the level of the heart, with the head flat on the floor.
- Provide first aid for any injury or burn and restrain fractures.
- Released close-fitting clothing around the chest, neck and waist.
- Preserve the casualty’s body heat with a blanket or jacket. Don’t apply any form of direct heat.
- Offer small, regular quantities of water to the conscious casualty who does not have intestinal trauma and who is not likely to need an operation in the near future.
- Observe and take note of pulse, breathing and skin colour at consistent intervals.
- Put the casualty in the recovery position if the individual has a problem breathing, expectantly becomes unconscious or they are likely to vomit.
Where to Get Assistance
- For emergency or dangerous circumstances, visit an EMS department or phone for an ambulance.
- Consult with your GP.
Related Video On Shock
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm4hmHnWV8s