How to Treat Shock

A victim may go into shock for many reasons including major injury, blood loss, allergic reaction, internal bleeding, systemic infection or major organ malfunctions. Shock is caused by the heart not pumping enough blood to provide oxygen to the victim's organs and tissues. For whatever reason that caused the shock; care of the victim is of the utmost importance. Shock is a life-threatening medical condition; therefore paramedics must be called immediately while diligent first-aid efforts are being performed on the victim by the good samaritan.

Things You'll Need

• Blanket

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Learn the signs of shock, which include: clammy, pale skin, confusion, disorientation and general weakness. If someone you know starts to go into shock, it is important that you call for paramedics and while you are waiting for them to arrive, do all you can for the shock victim.

• 2

  Wrap the victim in a blanket to preserve body temperature as shivering or shaking may be present. A coat or jacket may be substituted for the blanket.

• 3

  Lay the victim down with their feet elevated above their heart to maximize circulation to major organs, if he has not been in a major accident. Blood will not be reaching major organs. Be reassuring and stay calm throughout. Hold the victim's hand; let them know you are there and are not going to leave them.

• 4

  Make the victim as comfortable as you can and check that their airway is not obstructed. Although breathing will be shallow, observe the condition of the victim in case it worsens and you need to perform CPR. Stay calm and in charge of the situation until paramedics arrive and can take over from you.