1

Shock

Pakistan

ICITAP

Learning Objectives Learn how shock occurs

Know different types of shock

Identify signs and symptoms of shock

Demonstrate first aid treatment for shock

Learn shock positions for special injuries

2

Introduction Shock is a condition that often occurs in

serious injuries, but may appear in any injury

Shock occurs when the body cannot provide enough blood to important organs, such as the heart, lungs and brain

The Golden Hour - The first hour after an injury is the most important. It is during this time that symptoms of shock appear and First Aid should be administered.

If shock is not treated, it can lead to death!3

4

Introduction

As Police Officers, you will be exposed to As Police Officers, you will be exposed to victims of shock resulting from accidents, victims of shock resulting from accidents, combat and blast injuriescombat and blast injuries

The victim of shock must be treated at a The victim of shock must be treated at a medical facility as soon as possiblemedical facility as soon as possible

A knowledge of First Aid can often mean the A knowledge of First Aid can often mean the difference between life and death difference between life and death

Shock is the result of a larger problem

Bleeding Chest Injury

Heart Attack Abdominal Injuries

Burns Allergic Reaction

Severed Limbs Fractures5

6

Reduced blood flow to the cells results in cells dying, tissue dying, followed by organs dying. Finally, the death of the victim.

What causes shock?

7

Different types of shock HYPOVOLEMIC : Caused by severe bleeding from

wounds. This is most common type of shock.

CARDIOGENIC: The heart cannot move enough blood around the body. This results in a heart attack.

ANAPHYLACTIC: A severe allergic reaction. The most common are bee stings, nuts, and other foods.

SEPTIC: Severe bacterial infection which poisons the blood, causing death in 50% of the cases

NEUROGENIC: Occurs as a result of brain or spinal cord injury 8

YOUR GOALS

There are different types of shock, but the goals are always the same:

Maintain airway and breathing

Prevent blood loss

Maintain body temperature

9

Signs and Symptoms of Shock

Fast and weak pulse

Rapid, shallow breathing

Feeling faint, weak and dizzy

Nausea

Pale, cold, clammy skin 10

Signs and Symptoms of Shock

Blue lips

Anxiety (victim is restless, agitated)

Mental confusion

Extreme thirst

11

Treatment for shock In all serious injuries, ALWAYS assume shock is present!

If you suspect shock, do not wait for symptoms to appear!

This can delay life-saving treatment

12

The most IMPORTANT treatment of shock is to maintain the blood flow to the body’s vital organs (brain, heart and lungs)

Normal shock position

13

Treatment of Shock

Maintain airway and proper breathing

Lie victim flat to improve circulation

Elevate legs slightly above the level of the heart

Maintain body heat

Splint fractured legs before elevating14

Shock Positions for Special Injuries

Severe head injury or suspected fracture of spine

Open abdominal wound: Place victim on back with knees flexed

16

Shock Positions for Special Injuries

Minor chest wound

Minor head wound

Anaphylactic shock

IF POSSIBLE - Place conscious victim in sitting position for :

17

Shock Positions for Special Injuries

Severe chest wound: Lay victim on his side with the wound closet to the ground.

Unconsciousness: Position an unconscious casualty on his side with his head turned so fluids can drain from his mouth. (Recovery Position)

18

Summary

Shock is a true medical emergency!

In a serious injury, you must always suspect

shock

Start first aid treatment for shock as quickly as

possible to prevent it from progressing

If left untreated, some cases of shock can be

life threatening resulting in DEATH

19

Review

Explain how shock occurs

What are different types of shock?

Identify signs and symptoms of shock

Demonstrate first aid treatment for shock

Explain shock positions for special injuries

Questions?

21

Class Practical Exercise

Practice some of the skills Practice some of the skills shared in this presentationshared in this presentation

22