Shock, consciousness and monitoring of the injured

When you've given life-saving first aid the task isn't over. A seriously injured person can develop shock — a dangerous state where the body's circulation can no longer supply organs with enough blood and oxygen. Knowing the signs and acting correctly can be crucial while waiting for the ambulance.

§What is shock

Shock in first aid terms is circulatory failure not being startled. It can occur after heavy bleeding large fluid loss severe burns or other serious injuries where the body loses blood or fluid. The body tries to compensate by drawing blood in toward the vital organs and that produces the typical signs.

§Signs of shock

• 01Pale, cool and clammy skin
• 02Quick, superficial breathing
• 03Quick, weak pulse
• 04Restlessness, anxiety or confusion
• 05Thirst, nausea and increasing drowsiness

§How the mixture is created for an exact result

Treat the cause if you can — for example stop bleeding. Lay the person down, keep them warm with a blanket or jacket, and avoid unnecessary movement. Do not give anything to eat or drink, as the person may need anaesthesia at the hospital. Stay with the person, speak calmly, and monitor breathing and consciousness until the help takes over.

§Monitoring of consciousness

Keep a continuous eye on whether the person is reacting. Talk to the person and notice if the answers become slower or absent. If the person loses consciousness but breathes normally, place them in the recovery position so the airways remain clear. If the person stops breathing normally, treat it as cardiac arrest.

§Mental first aid

An injured person is often scared. Your calm spreads. Introduce yourself, calmly explain what is happening and what you are doing and do not promise more than you can deliver. Also spectators and relatives may need to be reassured or given a task — it gives everyone an overview and can free you to help.

“You treat not just an injury but a person. Calm, warmth and presence are also first aid.”

— First aid point