Shock

Shock is a serious condition in which there is a depression of the cardiovascular system. Shock can be caused in several ways, but the signs and symptoms are similar and treatment involves treatment of the underlying cause. Signs and symptoms include decreased blood pressure, a weak and rapid pulse, diaphoresis, weakness, rapid respirations, pale skin, restlessness, and possibly nausea and vomiting. If these symptoms are not recognized and the underlying cause of shock is not treated, the patient may become unconscious and can die.

Table 16.2 Types of Shock

Hypovolemic shock	Shock due to a decrease in circulating blood in the body system. This can be due to hemorrhage from an injury or into a body cavity. This can also happen due to a third-degree burn over a large part of the body.
Cardiogenic shock	This type of shock is due to the failure of the heart to adequately pump enough blood to supply the body. This is frequently due to a myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, or electrical conduction problems.
Septic shock	Shock due to a massive bacterial infection in which toxins from the infection are released into the bloodstream.
Neurogenic shock	This type of shock occurs when vasodilatation occurs due to dysfunction or injury to the neurological system.
Anaphylactic shock	Shock due to an allergic reaction from an allergen.

First aid for shock requires thorough and rapid assessment. If you can do anything to remedy the cause of shock, such as applying pressure to a bleeding wound, this would be the first measure to take. The patient should be transported to a hospital setting as soon as possible for treatment. Until this can be accomplished, there are some measures that can be taken.

1. Assess the CAB and address any problems that you discover with the assessment. Oxygen may be necessary if it is available.
2. Position the patient with the lower extremities above the heart level as long as there is no injury that would prevent this.
3. Closely monitor and record the vital signs.
4. Keep the patient warm and quiet and provide emotional support. The patient may be very anxious.
5. Give information to emergency services when they arrive about patient’s condition and any treatment that has been provided for the patient.