How to Treat a Victim for Shock

As part of any first-aid procedure, you should treat a victim for shock.

Shock happens when a person suffers a sudden drop in blood flow in their body. This can be caused by many medical problems, like an allergic reaction, sudden injury, heatstroke, infection or severe burn.

Someone suffering from shock can show any (or none) of these symptoms:

• A feeling of weakness
• Confusion, fear or dizziness
• Skin that is moist, clammy, cool and pale
• A quick, weak pulse
• Shallow, rapid and irregular breathing
• Nausea and vomiting
• Extreme thirst

Shock can be deadly, so it’s important to treat every accident victim for shock, even if they’re not showing any symptoms.

After calling for help, make sure they’re breathing and have a heartbeat. Control any bleeding, and try to relieve any pain they have. Help them lie down, and then elevate their legs and feet slightly. Keep them still, and help them from overheating or chilling. You can cover them with a blanket if they’re cold or wet towels if they’re too hot.

For more first-aid scenarios and guidance on what to do, visit go.scoutlife.org/firstaid,