What is shock?
The commonest type of shock is called hypovolemic shock – this occurs due to loss of fluids, usually blood. The body begins to go into shock when more than 2 pints of blood has been lost. It is life-threatening and requires immediate management! Here are some of the features which suggest shock is present in order to help you to recognize it.
Immediate:
Quick heart rate (feel at wrist)
Pale skin and cold, sweaty hands
Worsening:
Quick and shallow breathing
Weakening of pulse at wrist
Blue/grey skin – check lips and fingertips
Weakness and drowsiness
Nausea and vomiting
Extreme thirst
Critical:
Change in behaviour e.g. aggressive
Gasping for a breath
Complete loss of consciousness
Death!
Now that you have a better understanding of what shock is, in the next step you will learn more about how to deal with it.
Basic First Aid: How to Be an Everyday Hero
Basic First Aid: How to Be an Everyday Hero
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