Describe shock List the causes of shock Describe the compensatory &

decompensatory stages of shock Recognize the signs & symptoms

of shock

Shock Causes of Shock Stages of Shock How to Recognise Shock Management of Shock Conclusion

Shock is a condition in which:-

Blood flow Oxygen Nutrients to the tissues

are inadequate for normal cell function

Shock can be due to:

Pump (heart) failure Severe blood loss Loss of vascular tone Other causes:

e.g. low blood sugar, hypothermia, allergic reaction, drug overdose etc

1st stage of Shock

Compensatory Shock

2nd stage of Shock

Decompensatory Shock

To protect the vital organs, the body does the following:

Increases the rate & force of the heartbeat

Constricts the blood vessels of the skin Selectively constricts some of the blood

vessels in organs (vasoconstriction)

Initial Signs

Lethargy or weakness Confusion Fear Irritability, Agitation Disorientation

If the causes of compensatory shock are not corrected, decompensatory shock takes place

Blood pressure falls further Blood pools in the extremities &

cardiac output is reduced Usually results in death

Late Signs

Drowsiness, deteriorating to loss of consciousness

Lower level of consciousness Patient may be uncooperative,

abusive, or combative

Initially, the adrenaline causes: A rapid pulse Pale, cold, clammy skin; sweating

As shock develops: Grey-blue skin (cyanosis), especially inside

the lips. Pale, cold, clammy skin; sweating Weakness and dizziness

... Cont’d

Nausea, and possibly vomiting Thirst Rapid, shallow breathing A weak, “thready” pulse.

As the brain’s oxygen supply weakens: Restlessness and aggressiveness Yawning and gasping for air Unconciousness

Finally, the heart will stop.

Your Goals:-

To recognise shock To treat any obvious cause of shock To improve the blood supply to the

brain, heart, and lungs To arrange urgent removal to hospital

1. Treat any possibly cause of shock that you can detect e.g. severe bleeding

2. Lay the casualty down on a blanket to insulate her from the cold ground. Constantly reassure her

3. Raise and support her legs to improve the blood supply to the vital organs. Take care if you suspect a fracture

4. Loosen tight clothing at the neck, chest, and waist to reduce constriction in these areas

5. Keep the casualty warm by covering her body and legs with coats or blankets. Dial 995 for an ambulance

6. Monitor and record vital signs – level of response, pulse and breathing. Be prepared to resuscitate if necessary

Keeping head low may prevent casualty from losing consciousness

Protect casualty from cold with coats or blankets

Take pulse at wrist

Raise casualty’s legs so that they are higher than his heart

A casualty in shock requires immediate emergency treatment to prevent permanent organ damage and death.Hence, it is important that the shock patient be rapidly transported to a medical facility.