4. "Shock"
-a physical condition that results from a loss of circulating body fluids that leads to a drop in blood pressure.
Potential Causes of Shock:
☺severe internal or external bleeding.
☺burns
☺severe vomiting,especially in children and elderly
☺persons w/ heart problems
Signs and Symptoms
☺pale,cold and clammy skin
☺fast,weak pulse
☺fast,shallow breathing
☺dizziness and weakness
☺confusion
☺unconscious
☺breathing and heartbeat stopping
Treatment:
☺Warmth-wrap blankets and coats around her,paying particularly attention to the head,through which much body heat is lost.
☺Air-maintain a careful eye on the victim's airway and be prepared to turn her into the recovery positions necessary,or even resuscitate if breathing stops.try to keep back bystanders and loosen tight clothing to allow maximum air to the victim.
☺Rest-keep the victim still and preferably sitting or lying down with her legs raised to ensure that the maximum blood and therefore maximum oxygen is sent to the brain.
☺Mental Rest-reassure the victim but keep your comments realistic.Do not say that everything is going to be fine when it is obvious that there is something seriously wrong.Let the victim know that everything that can be done is being done and that help has been called for.If she has other concerns,try to resolve these.
☺Treatment-treat the cause of the shock and aim to prevent further fluid loss.
☺Help-ensure that appropriate medical help is on the way.
