What is the proper First Aid Treatment for Shock?

When you think of a shock, the first thing that comes to mind is the reaction to emotional distress or a sudden fright. However, in medical terms, shock is the body's response to a sudden drop in blood pressure. That means that there is a lack of blood flow throughout the body. Without blood flow, the body would not get the adequate oxygen needed to perform its normal functions. Shock is life-threatening, as it can stop major organs from functioning and can even lead to death if not treated immediately. Did you know that 1 in 5 people who get shock die from it? That can be changed if people know the proper steps to react to a shock. 

To respond properly you need to learn to identify the symptoms. The symptoms of shock are:

• Cold clammy skin 

• Enlarged pupils 

• Rapid breathing 

• Anxiety 

• Rapid heartbeat

• Dry mouth 

• Irregular heartbeat 

• Nausea and vomiting

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Confusion and distortion 

• Unconsciousness 

After identifying the signs of shock you should do the following steps:

1. Call for emergency help immediately 

2. Check for breathing, if the person is not breathing start CPR and rescue breaths immediately 

3. If the person is awake without injuries, then lie down with their feet elevated 12 inches. If raising their legs causes pain, lay them flat. Check to see that the person is comfortable and warm and loosen any tight clothing.

4. If the person is vomiting or drooling then turn their head to the side. If you suspect that the person has a spinal injury then rotate their entire body to the side while keeping the head, neck, and back in line.

Here are things to avoid when performing first aid treatment for shock

• Do not give anything by mouth including food or water. 

• Do not move the person unless they are in a dangerous area 

• Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before calling for help

Shock is a life-threatening problem that needs immediate response. If you can provide proper First Aid care you might be able to save someone’s life. When you see someone experiencing a shock be sure to come to their aid immediately if you know the proper care.

SOURCES CITED:

“Shock.” Better Health Channel, Department of Health & Human Services, 24 July 2007, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/shock#. 

professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Shock Symptoms & First Aid Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24055-shock-first-aid-treatment. 

Mayo, Clinic. “Shock: First Aid.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 21 Apr. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-shock/basics/art-20056620#:~:text=Shock%20is%20a%20critical%20condition,severe%20burns%20or%20other%20causes.

Written by: Shifa Shanofer