| 1. |
Shock
is the condition in which blood flow, oxygen & nutrient
substances to the tissues are inadequate for the normal
functioning of cells, resulting in subsequent functional
failure of organs.
Causes
There should be adequate supply of oxygen & nutrient substances
to the cells for maintaining normal function of cells.
To maintain this function, three major parts of the circulatory
system are in constant balance:
| |
Heart
- Beats at an adequate rate & force to supply the
system with blood |
| |
Blood
- Sufficient blood to be pumped |
| |
Vessels
- Maintains the tone of the blood vessels |
When any one or all three of these parts are affected
by trauma or a medical condition, the supply of blood
to the tissues is reduced & shock occurs.
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| 2. |
Clinical
Features
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| |
(1) |
Pulse fast & weak.
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(2) |
Pale-looking, clammy & cold skin.
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(3) |
Breath shallow & rapid, feeling hungry for air.
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(4) |
Feeling feeble, dizzy or restless.
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(5)
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Thirsty, nauseous & may vomit.
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(6)
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Restless.
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(7) |
Dropping in blood pressure.
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| 3. |
Treatment
|
| |
(1) |
Lay the casualty supine & maintain an open airway.
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| |
(2) |
Eliminate the cause of shock.
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| |
(3) |
Raise legs to improve blood flow to the heart & brain
(except for low-limb fracture).
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| |
(4) |
Loosen his tight clothing & keep him warm.
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| |
(5) |
Ventilate the scene & provide oxygen therapy if necessary.
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(6) |
Do
not give the casualty anything by mouth.
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| |
(7)
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Reassure
the casualty.
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(8)
|
Send
him to hospital as soon as possible.
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Important notices