A potentially life-threatening medical condition that occurs when a person's body does not have enough blood flow is called shock.If this happens, the body's cells and organs can't get the oxygen and other vitamins needed to function, which could lead to permanent tissue damage and even death.Learn to recognize the signs of shock, administer first aid, and how to prevent shock from occurring in the first place to help you evaluate whether someone is experiencing shock.
Step 1: Seek help from a doctor.
If you suspect that a person might be experiencing shock, you should call the emergency room as soon as possible.Emergency professionals will know how to treat shock.
Step 2: Understand the causes.
Although an injury, illness, or disease that restricts blood flow can lead to shock, some medical problems are more likely to produce this condition than others.To determine if someone is suffering from shock, check out the following list of some of the common causes of this condition and the terms for the type of shock that results: Heart problems, including heart attack or heart failure, can cause cardiogenic shock.A severe allergic reaction can lead to anaphylactic shock.Hypovolemic shock can occur if someone has low blood volume due to heavy bleeding or dehydration.A person with a major infection might experience a shock.In the event of a brain or spine injury, the nervous system can be damaged.There are traumatic events that can lead to shock.
Step 3: The symptoms should be identified.
There are different symptoms of shock depending on the type and condition of the shock.Refer to the list below for some of the symptoms associated with shock.Low blood pressure, rapid pulse and breathing, nausea or vomiting, weakness or fatigue, pale lips and fingernails, anxiety, confusion, or changes in a person's behavior are some of the symptoms.
Step 4: Immediately call the emergency services.
It is best to seek medical help as soon as possible if you suspect someone is experiencing shock.If you wait for symptoms to get more severe, they can progress quickly.
Step 5: If necessary, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
If the person isn't showing signs of life, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation.Rescue breathing should not be attempted by an untrained person.If you don't know how, ask the operator to explain it to you.The article on how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation is helpful.
Step 6: Provide treatment.
It might be some time before emergency services are available.If the person is experiencing shock and her condition appears to be getting worse, it is important to take the following steps.First aid for wounds and injuries.The person should be comfortable.Provide her with a blanket.She should not be allowed to eat or drink.It's best to avoid giving the person anything to eat or drink since they may be unable to swallow.If she vomits or starts bleeding from her mouth, turn her onto her side.This will make it harder to choke.If you think the person might have a spine injury, proceed with caution.If a person is having trouble breathing, try to keep her head, neck, and back in line while rolling her body and head together.
Step 7: The person should be in the shock position.
If the person does not have an injury to the head, neck, leg, or spine, you should not attempt this.The position improves blood flow to vital organs.Put him on his back and raise his legs above his heart.Do not place a pillow under his head.If you think this position will cause the person pain, it's best to leave him lying flat and wait for help.
Step 8: The person's breathing should be monitored.
If the person seems to be breathing normally, keep an eye on her condition until help arrives.When emergency services arrive, you can give them this information.
Step 9: Stay with the injured person until the emergency services arrive.
You can help the individual who is feeling shock.You can give valuable information to the paramedics if you monitor the person's condition until help arrives.
Step 10: Know your risk.
Understanding who is at risk is one of the most effective ways to prevent shock.Severe injury Blood loss Allergic reactions Anemia InfectionsDehydration Heart problems Drug and alcohol use increase the likelihood of shock.
Step 11: These risks should be reduced.
You can take some precautions against this medical condition, even though you can't anticipate all injuries, accidents, or diseases.If you or someone you know has an allergy, make sure to carry an EpiPen to reduce the risk of anaphylactic shock or a severe allergic reaction.Dehydration can cause the body to go into hypovolemic shock.Research ways to reduce the risks of heart disease and cardiogenic shock and what activities and situations can increase risk in these individuals.
Step 12: A healthy lifestyle is maintained.
The risk of shock is prevented by regular exercise and a healthy diet.You should schedule regular physicals and talk to your doctor about any underlying conditions that could lead to shock.
Step 13: You should take a first-aid class.
Taking a first-aid class will teach you how to care for someone until medical professionals can take over.Hospitals and community centers can often organize these classes for you.The American Red Cross, American Heart Association, St. John Ambulance and the National Safety Council offer courses.