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.