1 Shock Pakistan ICITAP

Learning Objectives  Learn how shock occurs  Know different types of shock  Identify signs and symptoms of shock  Demonstrate first aid treatment for shock  Learn shock positions for special injuries 2

Introduction Shock is a condition that often occurs in serious injuries, but may appear in any injury Shock occurs when the body cannot provide enough blood to important organs, such as the heart, lungs and brain The Golden Hour - The first hour after an injury is the most important. It is during this time that symptoms of shock appear and First Aid should be administered. If shock is not treated, it can lead to death! 3

4 Introduction As Police Officers, you will be exposed to victims of shock resulting from accidents, combat and blast injuries As Police Officers, you will be exposed to victims of shock resulting from accidents, combat and blast injuries The victim of shock must be treated at a medical facility as soon as possible The victim of shock must be treated at a medical facility as soon as possible A knowledge of First Aid can often mean the difference between life and death A knowledge of First Aid can often mean the difference between life and death

Shock is the result of a larger problem Bleeding Chest Injury Heart AttackAbdominal Injuries Burns Allergic Reaction Severed Limbs Fractures 5

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Reduced blood flow to the cells results in cells dying, tissue dying, followed by organs dying. Finally, the death of the victim. What causes shock? 7

Different types of shock HYPOVOLEMIC : Caused by severe bleeding from wounds. This is most common type of shock. CARDIOGENIC: The heart cannot move enough blood around the body. This results in a heart attack. ANAPHYLACTIC: A severe allergic reaction. The most common are bee stings, nuts, and other foods. SEPTIC: Severe bacterial infection which poisons the blood, causing death in 50% of the cases NEUROGENIC: Occurs as a result of brain or spinal cord injury 8

YOUR GOALS There are different types of shock, but the goals are always the same:  Maintain airway and breathing  Prevent blood loss  Maintain body temperature 9

Signs and Symptoms of Shock  Fast and weak pulse  Rapid, shallow breathing  Feeling faint, weak and dizzy  Nausea  Pale, cold, clammy skin 10

Signs and Symptoms of Shock  Blue lips  Anxiety (victim is restless, agitated)  Mental confusion  Extreme thirst 11

Treatment for shock  In all serious injuries, ALWAYS assume shock is present!  If you suspect shock, do not wait for symptoms to appear!  This can delay life-saving treatment 12

The most IMPORTANT treatment of shock is to maintain the blood flow to the body’s vital organs (brain, heart and lungs) Normal shock position 13

Treatment of Shock  Maintain airway and proper breathing  Lie victim flat to improve circulation  Elevate legs slightly above the level of the heart  Maintain body heat Splint fractured legs before elevating 14

Additional Shock Measures Reassure the victim  No comments about victim’s condition! Loosen the victim’s clothing  Loosen all binding clothing, including boots Keep the victim from being too warm or too cold  Warm weather: move him to shade or create shade  Cold weather: keep victim warm and dry. Place blanket over and under him for warmth, to prevent chilling from contact with cold/ wet ground. 15

Shock Positions for Special Injuries Severe head injury or suspected fracture of spine Open abdominal wound: Place victim on back with knees flexed 16

Shock Positions for Special Injuries  Minor chest wound  Minor head wound  Anaphylactic shock IF POSSIBLE - Place conscious victim in sitting position for : 17

Shock Positions for Special Injuries Severe chest wound: Lay victim on his side with the wound closet to the ground. Unconsciousness: Position an unconscious casualty on his side with his head turned so fluids can drain from his mouth. (Recovery Position) 18

Summary  Shock is a true medical emergency!  In a serious injury, you must always suspect shock  Start first aid treatment for shock as quickly as possible to prevent it from progressing  If left untreated, some cases of shock can be life threatening resulting in DEATH 19

Review Explain how shock occurs What are different types of shock? Identify signs and symptoms of shock Demonstrate first aid treatment for shock Explain shock positions for special injuries

Questions? 21

Class Practical Exercise Practice some of the skills shared in this presentation Practice some of the skills shared in this presentation 22