MEDICAL PROBLEMS - Shock
 
The circulatory system distributes blood around the body, so that oxygen and nutrients can pass through and 'perfuse' the tissues. When the system fails, circulatory shock will develop. If this is not treated swiftly, vital organs such as the heart and brain may fail, which can lead to death. The condition can be made worse by fear and pain.

Where there is a risk of shock developing, reassuring the casualty and making him comfortable may be sufficient to prevent the condition from deteriorating.

 
Causes
  • The heart fails to pump blood through the circulatory system, e.g. during a heart attack
  • The blood vessels dilate as in severe infection or anaphylactic shock, reducing the blood pressure
  • Blood loss, e.g. through burns, cuts, severe diarrhoea or vomiting
Signs & Symptoms
  • Rapid pulse
  • A bluish colouration of the skin, lips or nails (Cyanosis)
  • Sweating
  • Cold, clammy skin
    •
As shock develops there may be:
  • Weakness and giddiness
  • Nausea, possibly vomiting
  • Thirst
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Weak, 'thready' pulse
As the brain's oxygen supply weakens:
  • The casualty may become restless, anxious and even aggressive
  • He may yawn or gasp for air
  • He will become unconscious
  • Finally, the heart will stop
 
Treatment
  • Treat the cause of shock, e.g. external bleeding
  • Constantly reassure the casualty
  • Lay him down. When outdoors insulate him from the ground if possible by laying him on a blanket
  • Keep the head low
  • Raise and support the legs to improve the blood supply to the vital organs
  • Loosen any clothing that might constrict the neck, chest or waist
  • Keep him warm
  • Monitor and record breathing, pulse and levels of response (AVPU) every 10 minutes
  • Be prepared to resuscitate if necessary
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