Perform First Aid
to Prevent or Control
Shock
AWT 081-831-1005
CW2 R. Mandell
Condition: 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.
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).
Performance 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
Signs 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
Performance 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 casualty’s 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 casualty’s legs.
Elevate Feet
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.
CASUALTY BEING TREATED FOR SHOCK IN COOL
WEATHER
Performance Step #4
Prevent 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.
Performance 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.
Performance Step #6
• Watch the casualty closely for lifethreatening conditions and check for
other injuries, if necessary.
.
Seek medical aid.
QUESTIONS??