Title: Perform First Aid to Prevent or Control Shock
1Perform First Aid to Prevent or Control Shock
CW2 R. Mandell
2Condition You see a casualty who is breathing,
and has one or more symptoms of shock. You will
need a field jacket and blanket or poncho.
Standards Attempt to pervent a casualty from
going into shock by correctly positioning the
casualty, loosening binding clothes, calming and
reassuring the casualty, and providing shade from
direct sunlight during hot weather, or covering
to prevent body heat loss during cold weather.
Do not cause further injury to the casualty.
3- INTRODUCTION
- There are several causes of shock. On the
battlefield, hypovolemic (low blood volume) shock
will be the primary type of shock present. If not
properly treated, shock can result in death. - Hypovolemic shock is usually caused by severe
bleeding, but it can also be caused by a severe
loss of body fluids from severe burns, vomiting,
or diarrhea and from excessive sweating caused by
a heat injury (heat exhaustion).
4Performance Step 1
Check for Signs and Symptoms of Shock
- 1. Sweaty but cool skin
- 2. Paleness of skin
- 3. Restlessness, nervousness
- 4. Thirsty
- 5. Severe bleeding
5Signs and Symptoms of Shock (Continued)
- 6. Confusion (does not seem to be aware of
surroundings) - 7. Rapid breathing
- 8. Blotchy or bluish skin (especially around the
mouth) - 9. Nausea
- 10. Vomiting
6Performance Step 2
- Position the Casualty
- a. Move the casualty to cover, if cover is
available and the situation permits. - b. Lay the casualty on his/her back unless a
sitting position will allow the casualty to
breath easier. - c. Elevate the casualtys feet higher than the
heart using a stable object so the feet will not
fall.
WARNING If the casualty has an unsplinted
fractured or broken leg, an abdominal wound, or
a head wound, do not elevate the casualtys
legs.
7Elevate Feet
8 Performance Step 3
- . Loosen clothing at the neck, waist, or anywhere
it is binding
Performance Step 4 Prevent the casualty from
getting chilled or overheated. a. Cover the
casualty to avoid loss of body heat and, in cold
weather, place cover under as well as over the
casualty. Use a blanket or clothing, or improvise
a cover.
9CASUALTY BEING TREATED FOR SHOCK IN COOL WEATHER
10Performance Step 4Prevent the casualty from
getting chilled or overheated. (Continued)
- b. Place the casualty under a permanent or
improvised shelter in hot weather to shade
him/her from direct sunlight.
WARNING Do not give the casualty anything to eat
or drink.
11Performance Step 5
- Calm and reassure the casualty.
- a. Take charge and show self-confidence.
- b. Assure the casualty that he/she is being
taken care of.
WARNING If you must leave the casualty, turn
his/her head to the side to prevent choking, if
vomiting occurs.
12Performance Step 6
- Watch the casualty closely for life-threatening
conditions and check for - other injuries, if necessary.
- . Seek medical aid.
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