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Shock
Symptoms and signs:
There may be little evidence of shock immediately after an injury. Symptoms develop progressively depending on severity of the injury, continuation of fluid loss and effectiveness of management.
The initial symptoms and signs are: pale face, fingernails and lips; cold, clammy skin; usually a weak, rapid pulse; rapid breathing; faintness or dizziness; and nausea.
Symptoms of severe shock are: restlessness; thirst; extremities become bluish in color; the person may become drowsy, confused or unconscious; rapid breath; and usually a weak, rapid pulse.
Management:
* Control severe bleeding
* Reassure the person
* Seek medical aid
* Unless fractured, raise the person's legs above the level of the heart
* Dress any wounds or burns
* Immobilize any fractures
* Loosen any tight clothing
* Keep the person comfortable by maintaining body warmth, but do not heat
* If complaining of thirst, moisten lips, but do not give anything to eat or drink
* Monitor & record breathing & pulse at regular intervals. Maintain clear and open airway
* Place person in a stable side position if there is breathing difficulty, if vomiting is
likely, or if they become unconscious
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