St John Ambulance - Shock

Shock

I often bang on about shock as a symptom of all sorts of things and how important it is to look out for shock, both as a sign of further injury or because of evident injuries. Shock results from by a sudden drop in blood flow through the body. Shock can be caused by trauma, heat stroke, blood loss, allergic reactions, poisoning, a severe infection, electricity bills and other causes. Shock can lead to permanent organ damage and death, if your organs are not getting the oxygen they need, they will perish..

Signs and Symptoms

• Weak, rapid pulse, cold clammy skin, rapid breathing, feeling faint or dizzy

• Nausea, pale face, fingernails and lips

WHAT TO DO:

As always, check for any danger to yourself, or the casualty. Follow DRSABCD.

If the patient is unconscious, call triple zero (000) immediately.

If the patient is not breathing, begin CPR.

Shock can most often be caused because of injury, often it is as important to treat the symptoms of shock as it is to treat the injury. If a patient is in shock, treat any wound or burn, immobilise any fracture. Raise the patient’s legs, unless you suspect a fracture. Loosen tight or constrictive clothing, though keep the patient warm, use a blanket or towel. Give small amounts of water if the patient is conscious or not suffering from a severe injury. Keep an eye on breathing, record how many breaths per minute, monitor pulse rate (fast/ slow/, weak or strong) and skin colour. If the patient feels like vomiting, becomes unconscious or has any difficulty breathing, place in the recovery position and call triple zero (000).

Never leave someone you suspect of being in shock alone. Sometimes, just being there to reassure a patient can, be as important as anything else.

For the full copy of the fact sheet, visit link

https://www.stjohnnsw.com.au/g...

Our next skill drill will be held on Tuesday 29 July 1830, Grassy Road Shed.

If you are interested in becoming a St John volunteer or, for more information, please email norfolk.island@stjohnnsw.com.au or james.garden@stjohnnsw.com.au