| |
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.
|
| |
Clinical
Features
|
| |
(1) |
Pulse fast & weak.
|
| |
(2) |
Pale-looking, clammy & cold skin.
|
| |
(3) |
Breath shallow & rapid, feeling hungry for air.
|
| |
(4) |
Feeling feeble, dizzy or restless.
|
| |
(5)
|
Thirsty, nauseous & may vomit.
|
| |
(6)
|
Restless.
|
| |
(7) |
Dropping in blood pressure.
|
| |
Treatment
|
| |
(1) |
Lay the casualty supine & maintain an open airway.
|
| |
(2) |
Eliminate the cause of shock.
|
| |
(3) |
Raise legs to improve blood flow to the heart & brain (except for
low-limb fracture).
|
| |
(4) |
Loosen his tight clothing & keep him warm.
|
| |
(5) |
Ventilate the scene & provide oxygen therapy if necessary.
|
| |
(6) |
Do
not give the casualty anything by mouth.
|
| |
(7)
|
Reassure
the casualty.
|
| |
(8)
|
Send
him to hospital as soon as possible.
|