Shock is a serious condition that occurs when the body doesnt get enough blood flow. It requires urgent medical care, and the first step in shock first aid treatment is calling 911 or your local emergency number to request immediate medical help. While waiting for medical help, the following first aid steps can be taken:
- Lay the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly, unless you think this may cause pain or further injury.
- Treat any obvious injuries, such as severe bleeding.
- Keep the person warm and comfortable by covering them with a coat or blanket and loosening restrictive clothing.
- Reassure the patient and keep them calm.
Its important to note that some things should not be done as part of first aid shock treatment, including giving the person anything to eat or drink, or moving them unless there is danger. If the person starts to vomit, drool, or bleed from their mouth, turn their head to the side to prevent choking (as long as they dont have a spinal injury). If you suspect they have a spinal injury, perform a "log roll" instead: keep the persons head, neck, and back in line, and then roll their body and head together as a unit. If the person is not breathing or breathing seems dangerously weak, begin CPR until help arrives or the person wakes up.