Shock Notes

definition

traumatic shock- when body functions can shut down as a result o lack of blood circulation throughout the body, after an injury.

causes/dangers

traumatic shock can be caused by injuries— these include burns, fractures, or general wounds. it can also be caused by loss of blood

the worse the injury is, the more likely the patient is likely to go into traumatic shock.

shock can be made worse if the patient is handled too roughly, or if more blood is lost, and shock can even cause death if it goes on too long, because lack of blood flow is very dangerous to our bodies.

signs/symptoms

victims of shock can look weak, and pale— with a sheen of moisture on their skin, sweat beading on upper lips, and the forehead are also common.

patients can be nauseous, or vomit, and may become agitated, or out of it.

another trademark of shock is a quick, but weak pulse (this means that their heartbeat is going fast, but isn't very strong).

their breathing might be shallow and irregular. as a whole, shock can be confused as fainting, because they look very similar— the rule of thumb is to treat every sign as traumatic shock until it can be confirmed that the patient is out of the woods.

what to do

make sure to keep the victim lying down, this can make sure blood flow remains stable and can lessen the effects of shock— it can also make sure blood flow stays in the chest and head, which is where it's needed the most.

the only time this position shouldn't be used is if the victim is having trouble breathing, then they should have their shoulders and head elevated.

if there's a lot of bleeding, make sure to elevate the lower parts of the body (legs, hips), as this can help stop blood loss. don't do this if there is a head injury though.

in terms of covering the patient, place a blanket under them, and make sure to cover them according to the environment, assuring that they aren't too hot or cold (and make sure they don't sweat) hot water bottles and other warmed objects can help with shock as well.

do not add heat, though, just prevent a loss of heat.

also make sure the patient isn't dehydrated and has plenty of fluids in them (if you can get medical care quickly, this isn't something to worry about) plain water is the best fluid to provide for shock.