First aid for a shock

Authors: Simulation and Certification Center

Editor: Rednenko V.V.

Clinical situation:  

While driving your car, you saw an accident on the road. A casualty is sitting next to a broken car standing on the side of the road, calling for help. The casualty has a wound to his right shin with bleeding from it. A car first aid kit is available for your use. You have stopped the bleeding. The casualty complains of pain at the site of injury, severe weakness, and dizziness. Continue to provide first aid.

Equipment for the practical skill:

• simulator;
• vehicle first aid kit;
• blanket;
• bag (box).

The procedure for performing a practical skill

• Examine the casualty:
  • clarify complaints, paying attention to weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea;
  • determine the color, temperature and moisture content of the skin, pay attention to the presence of cyanosis of the lips and fingertips;
  • check “white spot” symptom;

• • check the radial pulse.
• Identify a type of the problem: there are signs of shock.
• Treat any possible cause of shock that you can detect.
• Reassure the casualty.
• Position the person in a supine position (on a rug or blanket if there is one).
• Loosen tight clothing to reduce constriction at the neck, chest, and waist.
• Raise and support his legs above the level of his heart (position it on the bag).

• Keep the casualty warm by covering his body and legs with blankets.

• Call 103 and tell the dispatcher that you suspect shock.
• Monitor vital signs – breathing, pulse, and level of response – while waiting for help to arrive.