Shock can occur for a number of different reasons. Trauma, blood loss, severe temperature exposure, burns. Even emotional trauma can cause the body to activate this defense mechanism, but what is shock?
There are a few different types of shock, but basically, it happens when the body isn't getting the amount of oxygen rich blood that it needs to survive. When this happens the body begins to prioritize where the blood that it has left gets sent. It will stop sending blood to areas like the skin and digestive system where its not immediately needed for survival in order to continue sending it to the vital organs. For this reason you will note a pale clammy look to someone's skin if they are beginning to go into shock. You may also note their lips turning a bluish color and their eyes becoming distant or glazed over. They may be in an altered mental status as their brain is not receiving the required amount of oxygen (slurred speech, anxiousness or combativeness). Of course, shock can be treated for before you even see any signs of it. Just by knowing what causes it you are already aware that it is a possibility and should treat for it automatically whenever something serious happens until the victims condition stabilizes.
The most common type of shock you will encounter in a survival setting is hypovolemic shock. This means there is not enough blood for the heart to distribute. Usually caused by severe trauma resulting in massive blood loss. Although shock should be considered in almost any circumstance, it should only be treated after the initial cause. Always check your ABC's (airway, breathing, circulation) first. Treat any broken bones and blood loss but if a spinal injury is suspected do not move the patient. Once the initial treatment is done you can start treating for shock. Make sure the victim is comfortable and laying down. Loosen any restrictive clothing or jewelry. Since the body is no longer regulating its temperature the way it should be, keeping the victim warm is important. Cover them with a blanket. If they are outside in the elements and no spinal injury is suspected try to get another blanket or mat under them as well to keep them dry. Log roll the person gently while supporting the head to do this. If they begin to vomit or choke you can lay them on their side and manage their airway in this manner but otherwise have them lay comfortably on their back. Elevate their feet 8-12 inches to help keep the blood in the torso where its needed most by the vital organs.
Due to the lack of blood volume during this kind of emergency the heart begins to beat faster in an attempt to get more blood distributed. You will notice their pulse and breathing get rapid and weak. Because the heart will be working harder and harder its critical to keep monitoring your ABC's and be ready to perform CPR or rescue breathing procedures should their condition get any worse.
Cardiogenic shock is caused when the heart is no longer working the way it should. The volume isn't the problem here but the blood still isn't getting delivered. The treatment remains the same but keep in mind that you must always treat the cause first. Trying to stabilize someone who is in shock will be useless if they are still bleeding or if their heart is stopped.
People can also go into shock as a result of an allergic reaction. This may be marked by difficulty breathing, itching, swelling, and abdominal pain. Most who have allergies this severe will carry an epi pen, which is an auto injecting syringe that they will need. Many people are able to administer it themselves but if you think this is what is happening ask them where it is. You may need to give it them. Epi pens are usually administered in the thigh.
In any type of situation where it is possible to call for help, do so immediately. Most of the information here is based on a wilderness survival setting or situation where help may not be able to get to you. Basic first aid should always be a priority. Always remember ABC (airway, breathing, circulation), but during any serious injury begin treatment for shock before you see it. It could mean the difference.
Emergency services phone numbers worldwide:
999.....UK
911.....USA/ Canada
191.....Thailand
190.....Brazil
119.....Jamaica
117.....Phillipines
112.....Iceland, Sweden, Denmark, Poland, Moscow, Romania, Germany, France, Greece, Italy, Spain, South Africa, Columbia
111.....New Zealand
110.....Japan
101.....Argentina
100.....Israel
080.....Mexico
000.....Australia
No comments:
Post a Comment