4.
SHOCK.
All injured persons should be treated for shock. Definition: Shock is a depressed condition
of many of the body functions due to failure of enough blood circulating through the body following
serious injury. Shock causes low resistance and possible death. Factors which may cause shock. Pain,
rough handling, improper transportation, continued bleeding, excessive cold or heat, stoppage of
breathing, and sight of blood. The effects of shock may be lessened by keeping the victim lying down
and comfortable. Symptoms of shock are: weakness of the victim; skin pale, cool, perspiration on
forehead, lips, palms; pulse rapid, sometimes weak or absent; breathing fast, shallow, irregular,
occasional deep breathing; eyes vacant, lack luster; thirsty; nausea, indifference and restless;
unconscious. Keep the victim lying down. Do not add heat; simply prevent loss of body heat by
covering with a blanket, overcoat, newspapers, etc. Do not cause the victim to perspire. Water in small
amounts may be given if the victim is conscious. Pole rescue as a result of electrical shock should only
be attempted by trained personnel.
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